EDMONTON | Czech captain Jan Mysak probably knows it better than anyone in his team’s dressing room: Mason McTavish needs to be neutralized tonight if they hope to upset and beat Team Canada Junior.
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Well, it’s only obvious after his six-point game on Thursday, but still. It so happens that Mysak rubbed shoulders with McTavish with the Hamilton Bulldogs of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) last season. The Bulldogs acquired the Canadian center at the close of trade and won the OHL championship.
Seeing him dominate on Thursday night didn’t surprise Mysak.
“He had a huge impact on our team at Hamilton. He’s an excellent player who can score goals and set up plays. Not only is he good in the offensive zone, but he can also play in defensive situations. He’s a guy who just wants to win. Even when things don’t go well, he wants to win. He’s a very competitive guy. It will definitely be a big challenge for us. »
The Canadian assures that the impression of a serious player he gives to the media when he appears in front of the media is not far from reality.
“He’s a good guy and he can be funny. On the other hand, as the match approaches, he is very focused to give 100%. »
NOT BULLED
The Czechs, who have a record of one win and one loss in overtime since the start of the tournament, is without a doubt the biggest test Canada has faced since the start of the tournament.
And Mysak assures him: Without complexes they will hit the ice tonight at 6 p.m. to take on the local heroes.
“We’re not afraid to face them, we’re just looking forward to it. They have several great players and are probably the best team in the world right now. It’s a big challenge for us, but also a great opportunity to show what we can do. We’ll have to work hard and do everything we can to come out of the game with our heads held high, whatever the outcome. »