Islanders Maxim Tsyplakov Exclusively Offers Thoughts Halfway Through His Rock-Solid Rookie NHL Season

Stefen Rosner sat down with Maxim Tsyplakov to discuss the rookie's thoughts halfway through his first NHL season.

New York Islanders rookie forward Maxim Tsyplakov has had a rock-solid start to his NHL career. 

Through his first 41 NHL games, he has seven goals and 12 assists for 19 points, playing a middle-six role. 

The 26-year-old may not be a front-runner for the Calder Trophy awarded to the league's best rookie. 

However, his 19 points rank fourth amongst rookies.

Tsyplakov's ability to slow the game down, make crisp passes, drive the net, show off his creativity, and, as of late, reduce turnovers and increase his discipline makes him a valuable asset to the Islanders.

There's no question that he should be part of the future, whether on a short-term bridge deal or a long-term contract. 

Enjoy my interview with No.7:

Stefen Rosner: What's this experience been like for you, coming over from Russia to the NHL?

Maxim Tsyplakov: "Oh, a lot of games. You need to be fresh. You need good rest. I work on this. Every day is routine. Yeah, this has been great...emotional."

Rosner: How have you felt that you have played so far?

Tsyplakov: "I think I've taken a little bit of a step back, a step down from my game [in KHL]. I'm not getting the points. But, I think I play well, and I feel good. Looking to play better in each game."

Rosner: You mention a step back. Outside of collecting points, what more do you want to bring to your game?

Tsyplakov: "I want to be more relaxed sometimes. I think a lot [during] every shift of every game. And after the game, I think that I need to be a little cooler for here. Because, when I don't think [as much] I play better."

Rosner: How quickly do you feel that you have adjusted to the language and the way of life here in North America?

Tsyplakov: "Definitely much better than when I got here. I think guys, maybe, understand me more, how I talk. They try to talk more simple. I think I'm doing good."

Rosner: The growth in your English has been amazing. Have you worked with a tutor?

Tsyplakov: "No, I am good haha. I don't have panic when talking [in] English. I actually think in English. I don't think in Russian and translate and say in English. I think in English. I'm good."

Rosner: When you came over, your wife and daughter came as well. How much has your family enjoyed living in North America?

Tsyplakov: "My wife is super happy. She's been able to meet all the wives at the games. She likes it."