EXCLUSIVE: Weegar on praise for the World Championship
Experienced defenceman MacKenzie Weegar of NHL team Calgary Flames has helped the team get off to that blistering start. With three goals and five assists, he is not only the team's most productive player but also the most productive player in the whole tournament to date.
Weegar sat down with Flashscore to talk exclusively about his impressions of the tournament, his high-profile move from Florida to Calgary and more.
"I'm a proud Canadian and I'm trying to represent my country as best I can," said the man who also ranks among the best in the +/- ratings for the tournament with six positive points.
He's had six seasons in the NHL and has developed into one of the better offensive backs in the competition, which is why the Flames signed him to a $50m contract this summer. Team Canada also relies on him as a leader as he is an assistant captain in the squad.
"I pride myself on being a good leader. There's a lot of young guys in there. We've got a good group of guys and to help out with that and make it a more fun experience for everyone, I'm just happy to help," Weegar told Flashscore when he sat down to talk about Canada, his impressions of the tournament, his high-profile move from Florida to Calgary and more.
Full exclusive interview below:
Did you know that you are the most productive player in the tournament so far?
"Yes, a couple of people have told me that. But, like I've told these guys over here, I'm just happy we are 4-0, more importantly."
Do you consider yourself an offensive lineman?
"I pride myself on being a two-way defenseman. I try to play defence strong and when I can produce up front, I try to do my best at that."
This is your first World Cup, what does it mean to you to wear a Canadian jersey?
"It means everything to me. I love my country - it's where I grew up, it's where all my family is. I pride myself on being a good Canadian and representing my country as best I can."
Do you get many messages from friends or family?
"Oh yeah - they're all going to come out actually and experience the tournament, and experience what it's like to be part of Team Canada. My family has never experienced it before so I can't wait for them to come down and see it."
You also have your NHL teammate Milan Lucic in the team, who you're playing with in Calgary. He's one of the oldest and toughest players in the locker room, among other things. What can you say about him?
"He's the best. What a great leader. He's an icon, a great guy to have in the room. He's still got a lot of juice in the tank. So we're very lucky to have him at this tournament."
How do you rate the atmosphere of the championship so far?
"It's been awesome so far. Riga has been treating us great. The fans have been awesome, the city has been awesome. You know, I can't say enough about the whole experience so far. It's been a lot of fun."
Hockey overseas is different, not only because of the size of the rink but also because of the different style of support. Is there anything that has surprised you?
"I came here with no expectations. You know, I just came to play good hockey and have some fun with the team and, so far, it's been great."
Last season, you played for Florida, which is currently in the NHL and has reached the conference finals, which is one of the top four teams in the NHL. Do you follow the games and the action?
"No, I'm not watching it."
In July you were part of one of the biggest trades of the last few years. From sunny Florida, you and Jonathan Huberdeau travelled to chilly Calgary for Matthew Tkachuk. What was the biggest change?
"I needed more winter coats and some boots, that's about it."
And then in early October, you signed a lucrative eight-year contract.
"Yeah, lots of time in the city. You know, I love the city and I can't wait to spend eight more years there."
Follow Weegar's Canada and the World Championships on Flashscore!
