On June 12th, 2021, Jack Eichel of the Buffalo Sabres discussed the emotional impact of a big hit he took in the Stanley Cup Final. In the third period of Game 5, Eichel was hit by Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman, sending him to the ice. The hit was deemed legal by the referees, but Eichel was visibly shaken up after the play.
In a post-game interview, Eichel discussed the emotional impact of the hit. He said, “It’s tough. It’s a physical game and it’s a fast game. You know, it’s a big hit and it’s something that you don’t want to experience, but it’s part of the game.” He went on to say that he was trying to stay in the moment and focus on the game, but that it was difficult to do so after such a big hit.
Eichel’s comments highlight the physical and emotional toll that hockey can take on players. While the physicality of hockey is part of what makes it such an exciting sport to watch, it can also be a source of pain and discomfort for players. Eichel’s comments show that even professional athletes can be affected emotionally by big hits in the game.
Eichel’s comments also serve as a reminder that hockey is a contact sport and that players need to be aware of their surroundings at all times. While there are rules in place to protect players from dangerous hits, it is still important for players to be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to protect themselves.
Jack Eichel’s comments about the emotional impact of a big hit in the Stanley Cup Final show that even professional athletes can be affected emotionally by such plays. His comments serve as a reminder that hockey is a contact sport and that players need to be aware of their surroundings at all times in order to protect themselves from dangerous hits.
