NHL striker Nico Sturm has arrived in Landshut. The 2022 Stanley Cup winner had his first training session today with the DEB-Selection completed as part of the World Cup preparation. We spoke to the San José Sharks offensive player after his first training session with the national team and asked him about his anticipation of his first senior international match.
Nico, when did you arrive in Germany and how was your journey to Landshut?
Nico Sturm: I landed in Germany on Wednesday from San Francisco, was home briefly and then traveled to Deggendorf last night for the team's game against Austria.
What was the first “hello” like in the dressing room yesterday after the game against Austria?
Nico Sturm: I know a few of the boys from the U-national teams. There are also a lot of guys that I don't know yet, simply because I've been over there for a while and I haven't had the opportunity to play for the national team yet. That's why it's now important that I fit in here as quickly as possible and get to know the team better.
What does it mean to you to be here with the national team just days after returning from the USA?
Nico Sturm: I think it's important to know your teammates and the staff well. This also has to do with the fact that I don't yet know the national team's playing system. There are definitely one or two new things and in terms of your biorhythm because of the jet lag, I think it's good to start training again as quickly as possible and do something so that your body feels better quickly.
Your last mission for him DEB dates from 2015 when you took part in the U20 World Cup. Quite a long time ago.
Nico Sturm: I've always been fortunate enough to play in the playoffs in North America since I went over. As a result, the opportunity simply hasn't arisen yet. It was clear to me that if I was healthy after the NHL season and was invited, I would also play for Germany.
We have to ask again about your great personal success: What did the Stanley Cup victory in 2022 do to you?
Nico Sturm: It is an individual experience that is very difficult to describe. During this intensive time over two or three months in the Avalanche team, I learned an incredible amount with players like Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar. Of course, such success also has an impact on your standing in the league. In San José I'm trying to take on a bit more of a leadership role and also give stability to the organization that is currently rebuilding. It's partly my job to bring the culture I learned in Colorado to the Sharks.
What are your goals now here in the national team, what do you want to bring to the team?
Nico Sturm: First and foremost, the principle of my game will not change. I try to do a good job defensively, which also includes outnumbered games and face-offs. At the same time, I will definitely take on a more offensive role than in the NHL. I also believe that I have the greatest potential in further developing my offensive game. I also want to use my size and speed and am therefore looking forward to my time with the national team.
Thank you for your time and good luck!
It hits on Saturday afternoon DEB-Selection again on Austria. The game starts at 17 p.m.