Rising Avalanche star refuses to be shaken by latest setback
Photo credit: Mile High Hockey
Ivan Ivan experienced a rollercoaster season with the Colorado Avalanche last year. He seemed poised to become an NHL mainstay, but an injury and inconsistent play led to a demotion back to the AHL. This year, the forward is determined to make up for last season's setbacks.
Not only does Ivan look to make an impact in the NHL, but for his country at the Olympics as well.
Despite being reassigned to the AHL, Ivan Ivan still determined to crack the Colorado Avalanche roster.
Evan Rawal of the Denver Gazette reported on Ivan's situation, highlighting how he can improve this season to secure a full-year spot with the Avalanche, and potentially earn a chance to represent Czechia at the Olympics.
"I had to handle it a little better. I think I learned from it, and it's a good thing it happened so I know what I had to work on in the summer. It was a mental battle, for sure. After playing 40 games, then getting sent down, it is hard, especially once I got used to playing up (in the NHL). It's a little different. Guys are better skilled and follow the systems better. In the AHL, it's a little bit of run-and-gun. As a pro player and a young guy, I got to be able to switch the styles." -Ivan
Ivan is already showing signs of improvement, based on his performance in the first preseason game against the Utah Mammoth. He'll need to compete with players like Zakhar Bardakov for a roster spot. His weaknesses and areas for improvement were clear to him before returning home at the end of last season.
"Focusing on the mental side of the game, Ivan cleared his head. Then, his phone rang. It was the Czech national team. With this being an Olympic year, he learned he was very much on their radar, and he was invited to attend their orientation camp." -Rawal
This season is a crucial one for Ivan, he has the chance to establish himself in the NHL and shine on the international stage at the Olympics. He seems ready for the challenge, but only time will reveal if he can rise to the occasion.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 28 | 23 ANSWERS Rising Avalanche star refuses to be shaken by latest setback Will Ivan Ivan make the Czechia Olympic Team? | ||
| yes | 17 | 73.9 % |
| no | 6 | 26.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
TRENDING NOW
