Big off-season signings Hudler, Cervenka skate with Calgary Flames

CALGARY - Czech forwards Jiri Hudler and Roman Cervenka skated with the Calgary Flames on Thursday after extended absences.

Hudler, signed in the off-season to a four-year US$16 million deal, returned from the Czech Republic after the death of his father Jiri Sr.

Cervenka participated in a full practice with the club for the first time.

He developed blood clots while playing in the KHL during the NHL lockout. While taking anti-coagulant medication, Cervenka wasn't cleared to play or have contact in practice until earlier this week.

General manager Jay Feaster pegged Cervenka as a top-six forward for the club when he signed the 27-year-old to a one-year contract in May.

Flames head coach Bob Hartley will make a decision following Friday's practice on whether both or just one of them will play in Saturday's game again Edmonton.

“Tomorrow they're going to practise both with us and after this I think I'll have a better picture,”Hartley was quoted as saying on the Flames website.

Hudler, a Stanley Cup winner with Detroit in 2008, left the Flames during training camp to go home for his father's funeral.

“It's been tough, I'm happy I'm back,”Hudler said.“I don't know if it makes it easier but I know it's a lot better for everyone.

"I really appreciated the Flames organization for letting me go home and spend some time there to take care of a lot of stuff."