“The reason I was called out”: Mazur and Red Wings, offseason training discusses NHL's emotions for debut

Mazur also said that when he brought his body back to health early last season, Grand Rapids head coach Dan Watson served as the coach, an active presence.

“Last year, especially when I was injured, he was a guy who always started talking to me,” Mazur said of Watson. “Since I can't be there, I really don't have anything smart to talk about about hockey, but he always makes sure to keep it away from hockey and go find a personal life. It really helps the rink, get rid of everything, and then when it's really locked up, he really plugs everything in everything, he's really an incredible guy and coach to play with.”

Mazur said that with the new battle approaching, his goal is to pick it up directly where he left. He is particularly eager to start training camps in Detroit this fall and intends to do his best to try to gain a spot in the opening roster.

“after [with the Red Wings]and that makes me need to be better,” Mazur said. “I need to push myself and I want to help them get back to the playoffs. I know I can reach this level. I have the ability, so it's just staying healthy. I've been through a lot of hurt and I feel that everyone will get better and stronger. I really can't look at this in a different way. ”