“We don’t hate each other enough in Swiss ice hockey”

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Daniel Winnik’s qualities in the play-offs are not primarily measured by his score points. The Servette mercenary plays sacrificially for his team – and is terrifying to the opponents. They first have to pass the Canadian on their way to the danger zone. Winnik is a player who rubs his hands when it comes to intense, emotional playoff hockey.

The 38-year-old does not hide when emotions erupt in fights. When it comes to these arguments and the charged atmosphere, Winnik admits that he enjoys them: “You have to find the balance. Because if you overdo it, it can become emotionally draining. But if you can control it, I think it’s part of the game, especially in the playoffs.”

A typical moment for this: in the closing stages of the third semi-final against EVZ, the fists flew after Zug’s decisive goal to a 3-1 victory. Was it meant to send a message? “Maybe it’s something more entrenched in North American hockey culture,” says the ex-NHL striker. “Of course it’s not about hurting anyone, it’s about setting an example and laying the groundwork for the rest of the series.”

“A Matter of Mindset”

Winnik goes one step further. “I like these kind of matches and duels. I don’t think people hate each other enough in this competition. Everyone is friends with everyone. The guys visit each other on their days off. It’s important to be able to put the personal back in.” His teammate Henrik Tömmernes (32) and Zug’s Carl Klingberg (32) are friends. “But that doesn’t preclude them from tackling each other.”

Doesn’t he have friends in the National League himself? “There are a few guys I get on really well with. I can give two examples, such as Chris DiDomenico (34) or David Desharnais (36), with whom I participated in the Olympics.”

Winnik has a motto for the playoffs: “Do everything you can to win and push the feelings aside. I hate everyone when I go out on the ice. But that has nothing to do with the opponent in question. It’s a matter of mentality that has always accompanied me throughout my career.” So the people of Biel know very well what to expect.

Source : Blick