ice Hockey
NHL professional Sturm does not see the start of the World Cup as a key game
A defeat in the first World Cup game would increase the pressure on the German national ice hockey team. But an NHL professional warns against letting the importance get too big.
Sturm recalled last year, when the DEB selection started the tournament with three defeats and in the end made a sensational appearance in the final and was only stopped by record champion Canada. “It’s important that we come in well and leave the game with a good feeling. Regardless of the result, that’s the most important thing,” explained the 29-year-old.
With the Olympic third place Slovakia, the USA and Sweden, three strong opponents are waiting for the vice world champions at the beginning. After that come three viable opponents: Latvia, Kazakhstan, Poland and France. The best four teams qualify for the quarterfinals. “We can beat any opponent. But we can also lose to anyone. It’s about moving forward. No matter how,” demanded Sturm.