What was the most unusual impression about life and hockey in Russia?
Unusual happens only when it shocks you. Nothing in Kazan or Russia shocked me. Sure, it’s different from Atlanta or Ottawa – different traditions or the way of life. But I was surrounded by great guys who were ready to show me where to go and where not to go. So I didn’t get into trouble and enjoyed my time there. How did you feel about bigger rinks? I’m used to them, since I’ve been to so many World Cups. The style of the game changes, and in the Russian league the guys are very skillful and great skaters. It is more about puck control than pressure. Here in the NHL it’s very simple – push and press the puck even in other team’s defensive zone. On a bigger rink there is more time to look around, to turn around, to think and to play smarter. Do you want to play in Vancouver Dream Game, Canada – Russia? The most important for us is to reach the final. If Russia reaches it too, even better, because that guarantees a great game. They have a great team. They beat us at the last two world
