Arizona Coyotes Throwback: Krys Kalanos

Getting To Know The Players Of The Past : Looking Back At Krys Kalanos

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Of course Krys Kalanos is maybe known mostly for his penalty shot goal against Colorado Av’s net-minder Patrick Roy on March 31, 2002. Krys was a rookie that year, and facing one of, if not the greatest goaltender at the time–and it didn’t seem to bother him. His goal gave the Coyotes a 4-3 lead in a game they eventually won 5-3.

For those of you who weren’t in the valley at the time, the 2001-2002 Phoenix Coyotes were in a playoff hunt and this win propelled them into fifth place by one point ahead of the Kings and the Blues. Roy went ballistic after Krys Kalanos scored because he did not agree with the call referee Dan Marouelli made earlier when Roy threw his stick at Kalanos to prevent him from scoring.

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After Krys Kolanos gave Phoenix a 4-3 lead, Roy smashed his stick against a goal post, splintering it, and then threw a piece at Kolanos, who beat him high on the glove side. Roy then charged referee Dan Marouelli, drawing 10-minute misconduct and game misconduct penalties. He pretty much lost his cookies, and that was enough to seal the victory for the Coyotes.

Concussions Can Really Be a Pain

Krys Kolanos’ career had been limited by a serious concussion after Václav Varaďa hit him from behind and knocked him unconscious in a game on January 19, 2002.

Varada received a major penalty and game misconduct as a result of his actions. Krys Kalanos was sidelined most of the ’02-’03 from the concussion caused by this injury. He managed 41 games the following season, but only had 4 G, 6A. He played for the Springfield Falcons that season as well notching 21 points in 32 games.

But, as we have all learned head injuries can really shorten a NHL player’s career. Between ’04-’05 to ’12-’13 he only played 49 total NHL games, since the time he left the Coyotes payroll. He had short stints with Edmonton, Minnesota, and Calgary. He also played in Europe, as well as the AHL.

Kalanos Was a Superstar… At Least For One Game

In closing, I can remember watching this game on TV, and how the crowd went wild, as if the Coyotes had won the Cup. Roy possesses an overwhelming competitive nature, and he displayed it here in this game.

As for Krys Kalanos, his hockey career was severely tested. Who knows how good he could have been without being viciously attacked and experiencing all the side effects of a concussion injury. Still, you’ve got to give him credit for hanging in there and continuing to pursue a hockey career.

Next: Arizona Coyotes Throwback: Getting To Know Ladislav Nagy

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