National reinforcements from New Jersey en route

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The elimination of the New Jersey Devils from the NHL playoffs on Friday night should have a major impact on the World Cup that begins today. The national team could now gain enormously in quality in one fell swoop, as goalkeeper Akira Schmid, defender Jonas Siegenthaler and forwards Timo Meier and Nico Hischier are theoretically available for national coach Patrick Fischer as World Cup reinforcements.

In addition to them, the arrival of Kevin Fiala (Los Angeles Kings) remains pending. Evidence of optimism is that Patrick Fischer officially registered only two goalkeepers, six defenders and nine forwards for the World Cup the day before the national team started their match (11.20 on Saturday against Slovenia).

National Director Lars Weibel has repeatedly emphasized that all Swiss NHL players have expressed their commitment to the national team. That is still the case, Patrick Fischer confirmed Friday after morning training in Riga. First of all, however, it remains to be seen how the Devils players are doing and whether there are any injuries. But Fischer also stressed: “I am confident, because the Swiss want to represent their country.”

However, the situation also differs slightly from player to player. We provide an overview.

He is the most problematic case of the five players. The winger, whose contract with the New Jersey Devils is expiring, must negotiate a new contract that should bring him millions of dollars a year. Purchasing such insurance would be extremely expensive and the player does not want to risk his health before settling his future. It is therefore unlikely, if not impossible, that Meier will come. Even though the Appenzeller played with great pride for the national team. “It’s more complicated for him than for the others,” said Patrick Fischer.

Kevin Fiala went through a complicated end to the season. The St. Gallen winger was injured before and during the play-offs. Nevertheless, as a playing player on the ice, he managed to close the season with the Los Angeles Kings. Those responsible at Swiss Ice Hockey have been working with the NHL organization for several days to get the green light from the medical side. Still no definitive answer. Fischer about this: “There is a whole protocol that has to be followed in order to be able to play again after an injury. But Kevin really wants to come and train.”

He was the center of attention this season with the New Jersey Devils and especially in the playoffs with strong performances. However, the Emmentaler, who celebrates his 23rd birthday on Friday, has never worn the A-Nati shirt. It would therefore be an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with the World Cup atmosphere and the climate in the national team without pressure. And that is exactly what those responsible are working towards, the third goalkeeper Joren van Pottelberghe has not yet been registered for the team. That leaves a place for Schmid. “As with the others, we would like to call him up when he is healthy. Joren knows the situation and his role,” says Fischer.

Patrick Fischer has registered six defenders for Saturday’s game against Slovenia. “One more will be added before the tournament starts,” says Fischer. Either Tim Berni or Michael Fora, who are not yet on the official World Cup squad. Eighth place would then be held vacant for Jonas Siegenthaler. The Zurich native took part in the last two World Cup tournaments and was undoubtedly able to adapt quickly. But of course he has to get the medical clearance from the Devils first. Fischer expects good news: “The fact that everyone has finished the game is in any case a good sign.”

The Oberwallisan was already part of the World Cup in 2019, 2021 and 2022 and people have now become used to the beautiful photo with him in national costume. If the captain of the New Jersey Devils is healthy, he should actually heed the coach’s call this time. A look at the already registered selection shows that, in addition to Gaëtan Haas, Enzo Corvi and Denis Malgin, there is also a middle spot available. When can the reinforcements be expected? Fischer: “On Monday at the earliest, if everything goes perfectly.”

Source : Blick

Emma

I’m Emma Jack, a news website author at 24 News Reporters. I have been in the industry for over five years and it has been an incredible journey so far. I specialize in sports reporting and am highly knowledgeable about the latest trends and developments in this field.