Team Switzerland is preparing to open its Olympic quest against France on Thursday. Roman Josi, who has played over 1,000 games in his NHL profession, is hoping to enhance from the last time he played within the Olympics, as Switzerland finished ninth in 2014.
Now, Josi has learned that he won’t just be one other player this time around, but shall be the team captain. He spoke about the respect after practice, in response to Shawn P. Roarke of NHL.com.
“It’s an enormous honor, ? Just representing your country on the Olympics is a large honor, and having the ability to captain the team is pretty special, it’s pretty cool,” Josi said after practice.
There have been multiple options for the role of captain for Switzerland. Josi is the captain of his NHL club, the Nashville Predators. Meanwhile, Nico Hischier, captain of the Recent Jersey Devils, Kevin Fiala of the Los Angeles Kings, Nino Niederreiter of the Winnipeg Jets, and Andrea Glauser, out of the Swiss National League, will function alternates.
“He’s obviously the face of Switzerland. He’s like Roger Federer. Very, very talented on the ice. Obviously, an amazing player but additionally an amazing leader. I can say so many things about him. He’ll lead us on this tournament and going forward,” Fiala said of the Swiss captain.
Josi understands that it is a major opportunity for himself, but additionally knows he has assist in leading the team.
“Hischy’, Nino, they have been within the League an extended time, and guys who’re captains on their other teams. It makes my job so much easier, nevertheless it’s definitely an enormous honor,” the long-time NHL veteran continued.
Switzerland doesn’t are available as one in every of the favorites on this tournament, especially with Canada and Czechia of their group. Still, the captain is up for the challenge.
“I feel we all know who’re the favorites; there are some amazing teams here,” Josi said. “I do not think we have now to cover. We’re a confident group, we’re a confident team, nevertheless it’s the Olympics, every game matters, every game goes to be hard, and I feel every team tries to concentrate on the that first game and you’re taking it from there.”
Switzerland opens up Thursday against France, before facing Canada on Friday, and ending the group stage against Czechia on Sunday.