TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Making it to the NHL is a huge accomplishment for forward Mitchell Chaffee, especially as an undrafted player.
Not only did he beat the odds, he’s overcome a serious injury.
"That's kind of my whole life. Just continue to work hard and prove people wrong," said Chaffee.
Two years ago Chaffee tore his right ACL when he was with the Minnesota Wild. It was a season-ending injury that took a toll on him.
"It's tough, especially when you're playing professionally you don't wish any injuries upon yourself or anyone, but that's just a part of my journey and it's a part of who I am and I knew I was going to come back and come back stronger," said Chaffee.
The Lightning signed Chafee to a one-year, two-way contract in July 2023. This season, he has as many goals in 14 games as he did in 30 games last year.
Chaffee has four goals, two assists, and six points so far in 2024.