After the Slovak federation described its criticism as thoughtless, Juraj Slafkovsky decided, in good French, to shut the door.
“I decided not to talk about it anymore,” he explained after the Montreal Canadiens’ morning practice on Monday, ahead of the clash with the Pittsburgh Penguins at the Bell Centre. You won’t be able to pull the worms out of my nose.
“I think I’ve said enough.”
In an interview with Arpon Basu, Slafkovsky notably deplored nepotism within the Slovak federation in the selection process of certain teams. Hockey Slovakia brushed aside these criticisms, seeing them as irresponsible comments from a young player.
“Next time we talk [les officiels de la fédération et moi]it will be behind closed doors,” said the imposing striker, who won bronze with Slovakia at the 2022 Beijing Winter Games, the year of his repechage.
Good start for his friend Mesar
Slafkovsky rediscovers his characteristic joie de vivre and his clownish side when it comes to the great departure of his good friend and compatriot Filip Mesar in the American League.
Several fans had already resigned over this first round choice of the Canadiens. Mesar now claims four points in two games this season with the Laval Rocket.
“I’m not surprised at all. I always knew he was an excellent player, assured Slafkovsky. When we get to North America, we just need time to adjust to the small ice.”
Is Mesar that kind of player who manages to use his tools better in the pros, surrounded by players with a higher understanding of the game?
“Mesar was playing against men [l’année de son repêchage] and, overnight, he was once again facing junior-aged players. Now he has to translate his game back into a professional league,” Slafkovsky remarked, meaning that Mesar has dealt with a lot of turbulence in recent years.
For obvious reason, Slafkovsky would like Mesar to keep piling up the points.
“If he continues on this path, he will find himself sitting here somewhere,” he recalled, pointing to empty boxes in the locker room.
Don’t think, however, that Slafkovsky watches American League games closely.
“Oh no, I don’t watch those kinds of matches!” he said without hesitation, provoking a burst of laughter. Only the highlights!”
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