Mika Zibanejad felt the power of love on a Saturday afternoon.
Before the battle with four Swedish countries Finland, the Rangers shared a gentle moment with their wife Irma Herrin and daughter Ella, kissing the young people along the Bell Centre board .
And when the game started, things got better for Zibanejad when he started scoring.
When Sweden put pressure on Finland's defense with a forecheck, it created a turnover and the bounce pack quickly landed on the blade of Zibanejad's stick in the slot.
He then passed Finland's netminder Kevin Lankinen and took the early lead at 8:35am, Team Sweden 1-0.
The goal marked Zibanejado's first goal in the four-team tournament in Montreal.
The 31-year-old said playing in the event gave him a sense of pride before the team's defeat to Canada.
“You're playing for your country,” said Zibanejad. “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.”
It was a new year for Zibanejad and rangers as he has 11 goals and 26 assists in 55 games.
Perhaps this goal will drive him.
