"Disrupt his rhythm. Get in his head. Make him second-guess." He continues to eat.
"And you're good at that?"
He turns and looks at me. "I'm the best."
I laugh. "Modest."
"It's not bragging if it's true. We have a chance of winning the cup this year. Especially with your brothers on the team."
"They're that good, are they?" I mean, I know they are good because of all the awards, sponsorships, and endorsements. But from another hockey player's point of view.
"It kills me to say it, but yeah. They have been a great addition to the team."
"Did you not want them?" I ask, reading between the lines.
"They came with drama."
I nod. "They're not normally that dramatic."
"I know that now. But at the time, I didn't want distractions for my team. We lost out in the playoffs, and this year we are determined to lift that cup. I didn't want anything to derail that."
"But now you think you're going to go all the way?"
He nods while eating and watching the TV. "Yeah."
We watch more highlights, he points out players and explains their weaknesses and strengths. I'm impressed. He knows the game inside and out.
"What about your team? What am I walking into tomorrow?"
He turns and looks at me. "Are you nervous?"
"A little."
"Don't be. They're good guys."
"My brothers said the same thing. But I want to hear it from you."
"Okay." He shifts and turns toward me slightly. "Fish is solid. Funny. Keeps morale up. But his shoulder's been bothering him, although he won’t admit it."
I nod. "Thanks. I'll keep an eye on it."
"Bouch is French-Canadian. Quiet. Professional. Tweaked his ankle last week but should be fine."
"Got it."
"Nelly's Swedish. Our goalie. Flexible as hell, but his hip gets tight. Needs regular stretching or he'll seize up mid-game."
"Noted."
"Sully. He's my childhood best friend. Tough. Plays through everything. You'll have to force him to rest."
"Sounds familiar."
His eyebrow raises. "Meaning?"
"My brothers do the same. But seems like I might have hit a nerve there."
"I lead by example. My team looks up to me. I can't be seen moaning about a little ache here and there."
