Let's Meet: Matt Kassian

By all accounts, one of the hardest workers on the Aeros (sorry Tom), Kassian was a second round pick for the Wild in 2005, and this will be his first taste of NHL action. He has attended every training camp since being drafted, and this season was one of the last to be sent down. With the Wild facing off against Calgary tonight, and Kassian possessing a "Boogardian" set of skills, he certainly seems to be the right call-up at the right time.

Make the jump for some video and more from those who know him best.

In his own words, this is how he conducts his business:

Forgive some of the cheesy sounding explanations of hockey terms, but they need to explain things slowly in Houston. They have to get through to Ms. COnduct, after all. (Sorry H, I couldn't resist.)

Doubt his abilities? You shouldn't:

The video cuts out at an unfortunate time, but I think you get the drift of what was going down there. One final video, just to show he doesn't back down from anyone:

With his abilities now clear, let's check in with some of the people who know him best, the writers at The Third Intermission. While conducting thier "Get to Know Your 2010 Aeros" series, this is what John Royal has to say about Kassian:

There is that hard work thing again. I really am sorry, Tom.

Also from John Royal, but this time writing for the Houston Press, Kassian was described this way:

It must be an unwritten rule that enforcers have to be nice guys off the ice. Or perhaps it is an escape from the violence they are employed to conduct. Either way, you never hear stories about guys like Kassian telling a kid to get bent when they ask for an autograph.

All-in-all, Kassian sounds like just the right guy at just the right time. A game against a division rival with a history of some chippy games and injuries in the forward ranks make for a perfect chance for Kassian to get his cup of coffee. If perseverance and hard work (sorry Tom) got him this far, it is difficult to believe he is going to change his tune now that he is here.

Cheer for him loudly tonight fans. He may not stick around for long, but you'll enjoy the ride while he's here.