Kulda Recalled, Mason Activated

The Thrashers have recalled defenseman Arturs Kulda from the Chicago Wolves to presumably fill in for Freddy Meyer who will likely miss time after leaving last night’s game. They have also activated goalie Chris Mason from the IR and reassigned Drew MacIntyre to the AHL.

Kulda, who is 6-2 and 215 lbs, has two goals, nine points, 52 PIMS, and is -7 in 45 games with the Wolves this season. The native of Riga, Latvia picked up two assists, two PIMS and a +2 rating in four games with the Thrashers last spring in a late-season callup.  The choice on who to call up was evidently between Kulda and the more offensively minded Paul Postma (who has eight goals and 35 points with the Wolves) and it looks like Kulda’s experience, strength, and grit won out for now. Kulda was Zach Bogosian’s defense partner for a season with the OHL’s Peterborough Petes so don’t be surprised if Ramsay plays them together.

Mason’s return gives the Thrashers an experienced number two goalie and you can expect him to see some action soon to give Ondrej Pavelec a rest. Mason was the key to the Thrashers getting off to a good start as he went 6-4-1 as he played 11 consecutive games while Pavelec recovered from his opening night scare.

The Thrashers return to action tomorrow night in Raleigh when they take on the Hurricanes who are one point behind them in the Eastern Conference standings.