Columbus Blue Jackets prospect Stefan Legein wants to restart his hockey career and plans on returning to the organization in the New Year.
Legein quit hockey at the start of the season for personal reasons, but has decided he wants to play again, according to
TSN's Bob McKenzie.
"I am planning to go to Columbus at the beginning of January and from there I hope to be going to Syracuse (AHL)," Legein told TSN. "That's the plan. I am looking forward to it. It's time."
Legein, 20, has reportedly been skating for the last few weeks and will begin a workout regime with the OHL's Brampton Battalion on Monday.
Blue Jackets GM Scott Howson told TSN he spoke with Legein "10 days ago" about a possible return.
"It's got to be all in for Stef," Howson said. "It can't be because he's running out of things to do with his time. It can't be because he's running out of money. It has to be because he wants to be a professional hockey player."
Legein was originally drafted by the Blue Jackets in the second-round of the 2007 NHL Entry Draft.
"I don't have any regrets about what I did, but I know I want to play now," he said. "I feel good about it. I'm getting back in shape. I have a ways to go yet, we'll see how it goes, but I want to play. There are no doubts in my mind any more. This is what I want."
