Nathan Walker is the only Australian player to reach the National Hockey League (NHL), so he knows how to stand out. On Thursday night, in his first game of the season, the St. Louis Blues forward did it again with a hat trick.
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Asked if there was an Australian term for a hat-trick, the 27-year-old replied that he was unaware, but that sometimes his compatriots could be imaginative.
“I’m sure if you get someone back home they can create something quickly,” Walker told the media with a laugh, as he doubled his career NHL goal tally.
It wasn’t the most straightforward hat trick. Detroit Red Wings goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic looked weak on the Blues’ first two goals and it was after a deflection in front of the net that he rained caps.
This evening is a great reward for all the hard work that Walker has done in recent years, working hard to earn his matches on the Bettman Tour. He’s quietly building a reputation as a reliable player on both sides of the rink.
“He always moves his feet, he puts pressure. He plays with intensity and a lot of energy every time he puts a skate on the ice. He does a good job when he is called back with us, ”said head coach Craig Berube, who saw his men win 6-2.
“It’s the way I try to play and goals come from that,” Walker said. Scoring three is pretty special. I’m especially happy that we got the victory. ”
An efficient school club
In the American League this season, there really isn’t a more dominant team than the Springfield Thunderbirds. The Blues school club is in full swing and every time a player gets the call from the big club, he produces.
This is the case of goaltender Charlie Lindgren, who blocked 29 of 31 pucks aimed at him Thursday night. The former Montreal Canadiens also praised Walker’s work.
“He works so hard every time I was there, I saw him in Springfield. He’s had a few lucky rebounds, but I’m really not surprised. He is a very good player and I am proud of him. ”
Against the Wings, Walker, Lindgren, defenseman Scott Perunovich and forwards Logan Brown and Dakota Joshua were all in uniform. The five players started the campaign in Springfield and are now doing St. Louis proud service.
“It’s really super! We have a good year downstairs, a great start. Everyone contributes, explained Lindgren. It’s nice to see the five of us here. We motivate ourselves to make every day count. ”