It looks as though Ryan Ellis is prepared to stick with the Philadelphia Flyers despite recent speculation that he wanted out. Ellis did not deny there were issues during his end of year interview with media Saturday, but said the problems have been sorted out and he's prepared to be at training camp with the team come September.

"Honestly, it's been the hardest year of my life," Ellis said. "Can't say I've been through anything harder."

Ellis was traded to Philly during the last offseason and seemed like he would be a very good pickup for the team. However, injuries mounted and he played just four games this year and even stopped attending practice three weeks ago, leading to the trade speculation.

"Being around the guys became tough because I can't help, I can't play, I can't do."

"It sounds kind of weird, but I miss getting hit by a puck," said Ellis, adding he even misses getting punched in the face if it means he can get back out on the ice.

Again, Ellis didn't deny there were issues, but he wouldn't get into specifics, simply saying they "multi-layered". However, he insisted everything has been worked out and he's happy to return to the Flyers next season. The former first-round pick (11th overall) has played 566 regular season games in the NHL, collecting 275 points (76G, 199A).

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