John Tripp didn't have to think twice when asked if he would like to play in Europe during the National Hockey League's lock out season.
Tripp, who turns 31 on Sunday, says the move not only advanced his hockey career but provided him with a comfortable living and opened doors he never thought possible.
"It was the best decision," said the former Los Angeles Kings forward on Thursday. "I prolonged my career and I get to play on the national team and possibly the Olympics at the same time."
Tripp holds dual German and Canadian citizenship. He is in Halifax for the IIHF World Hockey Championships as a member of the German national team.
He loves his new life in Europe, and says the money isn't bad either.
"We play less games and I get an apartment and a car," said Tripp, who plays for the Hamburg Freezers. "The money is comparable to the American Hockey League so it would have been tough to turn down."
Like Tripp, Jason Holland couldn't at first imagine anything positive coming out of the National Hockey League's lock out. He is now looking at staying in Europe long term.
AFP: Ex-Los Angeles Kings making their marks in Germany
Ex-Los Angeles Kings making their marks in Germany (AFP) 
twistedwrister
