Triple-A rosters often include players like Ryan Hamilton, the Oklahoma City Barons’ 29-year-old forward. He has spent the bulk of his career in the minor leagues but has experienced “a cup of coffee” in the NHL.

Entering the Barons’ game Tuesday night at the Cox Convention Center, Hamilton has played in 468 American Hockey League games but only 14 NHL games. However, two of those NHL games were earlier this season with the Edmonton Oilers, Oklahoma City’s affiliate.

“Ryan is a solid player at this level,” said Barons coach Todd Nelson. “You always know what you’re going to get from him. He never quits on a play. His work ethic is impeccable. And he has some offensive ability as you’re seeing.”

Nearly two months into the 2014-15 season, Hamilton is off to one of his best starts, similar to when he scored 99 points over two seasons with Toronto’s Triple-A affiliate, including a 30-goal season that ranked fourth in the AHL.

The difference in recent weeks is Hamilton is healthy, once again overcoming one of several injuries that have sidelined him throughout his career dating all the way back to junior hockey.

“I’ve always believed the next time I’d come back even stronger,” said Hamilton, an Oshawa, Ontario, Canada, product. “While you’re sitting out you make sure you watch video to keep your mental focus, and you work hard in rehab to get back on the ice as soon as possible.”

Hamilton made his NHL debut three years ago, appearing in a dozen games with the Toronto Maple Leafs. But the bulk of his games those four seasons were spent with the Toronto Marlies, the Leafs’ Triple-A affiliate.

Starting fresh with a new organization last season, Hamilton was in a good spot last season when he made Edmonton’s roster, but he was derailed by a sprained ankle and shoulder surgery. When he returned he was reassigned to Oklahoma City for the remainder of the season, appearing in 30 games with the Barons.

“It was pretty much a write-off season,” Hamilton said. “It was frustrating because my very first game with Edmonton I tore up my knee.”

Hamilton’s focus has never wavered. His goal is to play in the NHL.

“It’s unfortunate when you have injuries, but it’s all part of the game,” Hamilton said. “It’s something I’ve dealt with my entire career.”

As a teenager, Hamilton was never drafted in juniors, flying under the radar because of his size (5-foot-8). A growth spurt to 6-foot-2 drew more interest. He started his pro career in Minnesota’s organization.

“Even in juniors I had some injuries like mono and a broken sternum when I was around 17 or 18,” Hamilton said. “I never really put a junior season together until my last year.

“I had to go a different route than most players, so it was nice to finally get a healthy season under my belt my final year of juniors, which helped me sign with Minnesota.”

During his two seasons in the Wild’s organization, Hamilton was inspired by Joel Ward, an undrafted free agent.

Eight years later, Ward, now age 34, is closing in on his 500th career NHL game.

“He worked his way through the American League and when he finally got a sniff he built a really nice career,” Hamilton said. “The (AHL) produces the majority of NHL players. It’s always nice to see guys get an opportunity up top and make the most of it.”

Hamilton has a knack for scoring, one of those rare players who has compiled more career AHL goals (144) than assists (119). For the Barons this season he’s recorded eight goals and six assists.

“We knew what he was capable of last year when we got him,” Nelson said. “He has a really good all-around game, plays well on both ends of the ice. What has gotten him here is his heart and determination. He’s getting rewarded with points because he’s doing all the right things.”

In 15th place in the Western Conference, Edmonton once again might hand out extended “looks” to several Barons who have logged 100-plus games in Oklahoma City, players the past few years, players like Tyler Pitlick who the Oilers recalled on Sunday.

“There will always be ups and downs,” Hamilton said. “I try to keep an even keel and always look at the positives. And never give up. That’s pretty much my mindset.”