Gregory Campbell had a few offers to play in Europe, and there were some in-depth discussions between his agent and a few teams.
But the Bs fourth-line center isnt headed overseas anytime soon, and probably wont be going to the Czech Republic or Germany unless the entire NHL 2012-13 season gets called due to the lockout.
It was previously thought Campbell might join Ceske Budejovice HC and play with Andrew Ference in the Czech Republic, but that opportunity wasnt the right fit. There was also a chance for Campbell to play in Germany, but life at home has come into play this offseason.
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"Its just not the right time for me to be playing in Europe at this point," said Campbell.
Campbell is newly married and was in Boston this week attending to a few errands after buying a residence in the Back Bay. But Campbell indicated hell be headed back to Ontario this weekend until something breaks for better or worse.
He has been skating with Capitals defenseman Dennis Wideman and their former junior team, the Kitchener Rangers, in recent weeks, and that will be the plan until the season is saved or cancelled.
Its a good practice with some good intensity and a nice group of kids, and it gives you that good feeling going to the rink every day thats missing a little bit with the lockout, said Campbell, who skated with Shawn Thornton and Daniel Paille at a Monday morning informal practice at a local arena.
"So Ill head back up to Ontario until something happens," he added. "You never know. I guess things might change a little later down the line and it would be beneficial to play in some games if things start to happen around here quickly. But as of right now Im staying in North America, and Ill just keep myself ready to play.
Campbell is starting the first year of a three-year, 4.8 million contract extension in Boston, and had 16 points in 77 games last year while averaging nearly 13 minutes of ice time per game. The 28-year-old Campbell also finished second on the Bruins behind Thornton with fighting majors last season.
With Campbell leaving Boston and the number of skaters at the involuntary workouts dwindling, its becoming more and more of a challenge for the players to keep themselves in the ready position.