An understandably tired and probably still jet-lagged David Pastrňák logged 21:59 but was held pointless with two shots on goal as the Czechs lost 4-3 in overtime to Canada. After the game, he told the print media that he'll be available for interviews tomorrow. However, he did a video interview for the Czech media outlet hokej.cz:
David, how did you feel out there?
“The energy was pretty much there, but the timing and width of the ice is a little different. It will take a while to realize I have more time out there. The body felt pretty good though. It’s a good first step towards being better on Thursday.”
How do you feel about the outcome of the game?
“If I were told before the game that we would lose in overtime, that wouldn’t be so bad. But we had a huge advantage there, a 4-on-3 power play. We made two small mistakes and gave up a shorthanded goal. That can’t happen.”
You played with Pavel Zacha and Roman Červenka. A line combination with Ondřej Palát was also speculated. Did you have a say in that?
“I don’t involve myself in those things – the coaches know that. I wanted (Zacha) and I to fit in as well as possible, and to do it by disturbing the current lineup as little as possible. We’re glad that the changes were minimal. Hopefully, we will be 100 percent ready for Thursday.”
How did you like the atmosphere in the arena?
“It’s completely different than in America. From the moment the fans enter the building, they cheer for the entire game. They don’t stop cheering. Every time I was on the bench I enjoyed it. I’m really looking forward to Thursday.”
In the quarterfinals, you will face either Germany or the USA. It will be determined by the game between Finland and Switzerland.
“We will definitely pay attention to it, but we aren’t rooting for anyone. If you want to be successful in this tournament, you have to beat everyone. You have to take the first step and that’s the most important. I want to mention something else…
“We have to focus on ourselves. We have incredible players and a great team. We have to respect the opponent, but we can’t only look at who we’re playing against. We have to play our game and dictate what happens on the ice. We have the talent for that.”