Williams is back

The big news of the day, beyond Drew Doughty’s Norris Trophy nomination, is the return to the lineup of Justin Williams. Williams will have a different look tonight, not in his usual first-line role but in a third-line role with Michal Handzus and Fredrik Modin, a line that has significant defensive responsibilities but also has scored a handful of goals. Williams, who sat out the previous three games, now returns, and he shared his thoughts this morning…

WILLIAMS: “I’m looking forward to it, looking forward to elevating my game to the level I know I can play. It starts with a little confidence out there, and I’m going to make sure I never get out again.”

Question: How do you go about getting that confidence back?

WILLIAMS: “It’s in your head. Positive thinking, working hard, work before skill. Everything else will take over. I’m looking for a fun game.”

Question: Do you ever go back and watch video of games you felt you played well?

WILLIAMS: “Yeah. You just realize what you can do and maybe visualize it a little more, and see what happens. I’m excited to get back and help this team win.”

Question: When Terry took you out, he mentioned how tough it can be to come back from a big injury like you had. Is that still a factor for you?

WILLIAMS: “Everything can be tough, but injuries are what you make of them. If you slow down, you make yourself stronger. You do what you can, and I will never use that, ever, as an excuse. Tonight I’m going to prove otherwise.”

Question: A little bit of a different look for you, playing with Handzus and Modin?

WILLIAMS: “Those are two big bodies down there, and you’ve got to give them space. They’re going to hold off one, sometimes two, guys, and if you can find an open space, they will be able to get you the puck. I’ve played with a couple big guys before. It’s going to be fun, it’s going to be different and I’m going to embrace the challenge and playing against whoever on the other side. We’ll do our best to play well defensively but, at the same time, try to score goals.”