Ahead of tonight’s opening game against Denmark, Toronto-based podcast sdpn discussed the chances of the best DEB team ever. Coming from the motherland of ice hockey, their assessment of the individual players who play in the NHL offers a fresh perspective.
There is certainly a lack of knowledge about the players from the DEL. And pronouncing German names can be a tongue twister for native English speakers. In addition, only the annual incomes of NHL players are shown in the infographic.
The biggest opportunity for the German team is possibly that this underestimation of the DEL players and the team itself, who all know each other very well and play together every year at the World Championships, could be the decisive factor.
Kai Wissmann and Jonas Müller have been playing together for years at Eisbären Berlin and in the World Championships. For me, they are a key defensive pillar. Tiffels is a wild card in offense, as he already demonstrated against the USA in the 2023 World Championships.
Of course, Draisaitl’s leadership skills, both on and off the ice, come with high expectations. And with Grubauer playing strongly, the chances of winning a medal are greater.
For those who would find it helpful to hear an assessment of our potential from a Canadian perspective, here are a few quotes from the podcast:
If you’re looking for a dark horse contender for a medal, I’d bet on Germany.
Seider and Draisaitl are at the peak of their careers. They are currently among the best defensive and offensive players in the world.
Don’t take penalties against Germany.
Their power play line is extremely strong with Draisaitl, Stützle, and Peterka on offense and Reichel and Seider on defense.
Underestimate Germany at your own peril.