CHICAGO — Philipp Kurashev returns to face his former team with the San Jose Sharks for the first time on Monday.

Kurashev will play his second game back from an upper-body injury against the Calgary Flames and will play the Chicago Blackhawks for the first time in his career. Kurashev played 349 career games for the Blackhawks after he was drafted in the 4th-round of the 2018 Draft.

The Sharks forward took a day off in his former hometown and told reporters that walking around the city brought back many memories.

“A lot of things, especially yesterday. Being back in the city and walking around and talking to some people, it brings back a lot of memories and great times, and, of course, also some hard times,” Kurashev said. “[I’m] just really happy that I can play here tonight and see everyone. I’m just going to try to enjoy it.”

Kurashev will play on the San Jose Sharks’ third line with Michael Misa and Pavol Regenda. He will also play on the Sharks’ second power play unit.

Kurashev got the fresh start he was hoping for this summer with the San Jose Sharks. Although the forward didn’t want to get into how last season’s vibe with the Blackhawks compared to this season with the Sharks, he admitted things are better now.

“I definitely needed that to start the year,” Kurashev said. “Before my injury, I was feeling really good and playing well. It’s something I needed, and something I’m glad I was able to get the opportunity to do.”

The Olympics are right around the corner for Kurashev. The Swiss National team member was thrilled to be able to come back and play before he leaves for Milan. But he also thinks the Olympics are another chance for him to get back to “game shape” for the Sharks upon returning.

“When I got injured, it was definitely on my mind. [I’m] just glad that I get to get a couple of games in before I go there,” Kurashev said. “It’s also good that I can get those games at the Olympics, for when I come back, I’ll also be in game shape. That’s huge for me. I think the timing worked out at the end. It was a lot of hard moments and tough days, but I’m glad it all worked out. Excited to be back playing with the guys.”

SHD asked Kurashev if he had a favorite restaurant in Chicago. The San Jose Sharks forward says he loves Gibsons Italia. He was able to get the lunch meal yesterday. He also told reporters he had never had deep-dish pizza before, despite playing in Chicago for so long.