At 37, Eric Staal signed a pro trial contract with the Iowa Wild of the American League this week. His goal is to get back in shape and show that he belongs on the Canadian team going to the Olympics.
Posted at 10:09 p.m.
In a press conference before his first game with his new team on Friday, the former Canadian forward indicated that he “still had a desire to compete, to [se] beat and play,” reports CBC Sports.
Staal, who has more than 1,000 points in nearly 1,300 NHL career games, admitted he would like to be selected for the Canadian team, which is expected to be announced soon. While the NHL has decided that its players will not participate in the Olympic tournament, Hockey Canada is currently building a roster with players from other leagues and of all ages.
“The chance to represent Canada at the Olympics is something you can never turn away from,” the forward said. You know, it’s quite special and it would be really an honor to have this chance. »
It wouldn’t be a first Olympic experience for Eric Staal, who was part of Team Canada when it won gold in Vancouver in 2010. He was also on the reserve team in Turin in 2006. center remembers those moments very well.
“It’s a special atmosphere. The spirit of the Games is somehow unmatched by anything else. I still clearly remember the feelings I had in 2006 and 2010. […] Hopefully the next few days will be fine and maybe I’ll get that chance. »
The Ontarian had been without a contract since taking part in the Stanley Cup final with the Habs last July. He nevertheless made sure to stay active, in particular by accompanying his three children on his outdoor skating rink.
“They all play, so I feel like I’m at the rink every night,” he hinted. And I personally stayed on the ice, so it kept my mind fresh and my legs engaged. »
Staal had 1 goal and 1 assist in his first game with the Wild on Friday.