Among the most prolific performers in AHL history, the 28-year-old right winger will no doubt do his fair share of interviews again this year. The Champion decided to put him through his Q&A paces a little early — and provide local hockey fans with a little insight, serious and otherwise, on the NHL hopeful.

Having won the Calder Cup again this past spring, what’s it like to hoist that trophy above your head? And did being captain of Chicago (Wolves) make it any sweeter this time around?

It doesn’t matter what level you’re playing at, it’s always nice to be the last man standing. Only one team gets to go home for the summer with their last game being a win. On being captain. I don’t think that made it any different. I just think being a few years older and being on such a close team with great players, coaching staff, management and ownership made it something to cherish. This year was special to me because of my girlfriend being diagnosed with throat cancer only two weeks prior to the start of playoffs. Our team came together and rallied for Sara and one of our owners gave her the game puck after we won the Cup. With the support we received from the organization I felt like I owed it to our ownership and everyone involved to do what I could to help us win.

If the Calder Cup could talk, would it have any interesting stories to tell about this year’s post-victory celebration?

Well it started off by having a dip in the pool at the apartment complex of a few players. Then the next day Jason Krog threw out the first pitch while I carried the Cup on the mound at the Chicago Cubs’ game.

How ridiculous did you feel with that big cheesy mustache you guys all had for the playoffs?

After being mistaken for a limo driver I came to realize they were a little out of date. We had a lot of fun with them and it seemed to help take our mind off of trailing in the series with Rockford. After winning the first two games we dropped three straight and the mustaches proved to be our lucky charm. They had ‘Fear the Stache’ T-shirts made up for the finals.

How would you rate your chances of seeing some real time with the Red Wings this season?

I just need to continue playing well at the American League level and if they need me then I’ll be ready. I can’t sit and think about it every day. That would drive me crazy and I think that’s what happens to a lot of young prospects. They worry about being called up and the year and their career passes them by.

Having played in Milwaukee and Chicago, what’s better — Milwaukee’s beer or Chicago’s deep-dish pizza?

How about both?

Has the ‘Mini’ what you’re called by family and longtime friends now?

It lasted until Milwaukee. Some of those guys still refer to me as ‘Mini’ as well as most of my friends and family in Milton. I really think a lot of people have to sit back and think of my real name. It’s kind of funny.

How frustrating is it to keep hearing about the whole size issue when it comes to your chances of making the NHL?

I don’t think that size is an issue anymore. I just think it’s about age and how I’m not really anyone’s prospect. The size thing isn’t the frustrating part, it’s knowing that I belong in that league and that I really haven’t been given a real opportunity. That’s the part that bothers me. But I’m definitely not giving up.

Where’s your favourite place to play — at any level?

Playing against the Leafs (at ACC) last year was a lot of fun. There were a lot of friends and family that made it to that game.

Montreal has a great atmosphere as well. It’s pretty exciting there. In the American League the best place to play is either Chicago or Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. In Chicago they put on a great fireworks show for the fans before the games and the fans are great. In Wilkes-Barre in the playoffs they are always sold out and the atmosphere ranks up there with the college atmosphere. It’s loud and fun, especially if the home team is winning. That’s why we had to beat them in their building.

What did you do with the puck you scored your first NHL goal with last October?

Atlanta framed it and put both a copy of the game sheet and a photo of the goal in it for me. It’s hanging in my parents’ place right now.

What’s the best single piece of advice a coach or teammate ever gave you?

I think it’s a life lesson too, just to stay level headed. Things aren’t always as great as they seem, nor are they ever as bad as they seem. Too many players hold onto a bad game for too long and let it affect their next game. You’ve got to always look at the big picture — and have fun. Too many guys don’t have fun and enjoy playing.

Best hockey movie?

Slap Shot — just a great old classic

Worst hockey movie?

Mystery, Alaska — although it is kinda funny. My roommate on the road last season, Joe Crabb, is from Alaska.

Having spent two-and-a-half months with the Thrashers last fall, what are some subtle differences between the NHL and AHL in terms of behind-the-scenes stuff?

Flights… In the NHL you charter everywhere and there is a menu to order from. The hotels you stay in and the meals at the hotels are much better.

Is Europe still an option down the road?

Yes it is. Leagues over there are making great strides in being very competitive. I think that may happen as early as next season.

What are you more proud of, breaking the AHL’s point streak record in 2006/07 or becoming the league’s all-time playoff scorer leader (for both goals and total points) this past spring?

I don’t know to be honest. They’re really different. To have recorded at least a point in 39 straight games is pretty cool, but so is being there in the playoffs helping your team win championships. I think that I’ll appreciate those both more in a few years. Right now I’m just trying to continue proving I belong in the NHL.

What’s your initial outlook for the Griffins this season?

Grand Rapids is going to be younger than my last couple of years in Chicago, but we’re going to be full of prospects for Detroit. They do their homework when it comes to drafting. I’m impressed with the young guys who will be here and am looking forward to the start of another season.