MONTREAL – Mika Zibanejad's season with the Rangers is below normal.
But this is not a ranger.
“You're playing for your country,” Zibanejad said Wednesday before Team Sweden lost 4-3 in overtime to hold a four-country showdown. “It's quite different, but I think it's very fun. I'm proud and respectful about wearing this jersey. It's so fun to be able to play with these people and it's exciting. There are so many. I was looking forward to today and it's finally here.”
Zibanejad spent most of his sessions on his second day running with a reporter who seemed relaxed and satisfied.
Despite his game recently picked up with the Rangers, that's far from the attitude he's had with Blue Heart all year round.
Zibanejad, who never represented Sweden in the Best On Best Competition, is suddenly in another environment where the slate is clean and you can go out and play.
Yes, there's pressure and nerves – Trekroner won't be a punching bag for the US or Canada, as it proved by fighting back from a 3-1 deficit to score points on Wednesday. But like everyone else here, it is covered for Zibanejad by being excited to ultimately represent his country on stage like this.
Swedish manager Sam Hallam began Zibanejad on the top line between Rickard Raquel and William Nylander.
“Rakel and Mika played together in the world a few years ago and were really successful. Even pretty good peers outside the ice,” Haram said. “It plays a bit. But mostly they're three really good players. Willie can skate on the puck and if he can get the puck to Mika or Lakey then there's a few. I hope we achieve our goals.”
There is no weight for the Rangers season here. There are no trade memos or December 3rd to 10th. In this tournament, Zibanejad will then be released and will be able to find the best version of himself before returning to New York.
“The last few days have been very impressive in practice and even morning skating,” Zibanejad said. “It's obviously you're playing with the national team, under 18, under 20, and obviously a lot of people who play against them, but the people you play against each other every day will know how you know. I think people who know what they are feeling differently. They're good.
“In terms of actually seeing it for 40 minutes on the ice and seeing how you catch a pass and how you play. It's all impressive and honestly, it's a lot of fun.”
