Newly acquired forward Filip Zadina was introduced to the San Jose Sharks media on Tuesday.
Filip Zadina was the sixth overall pick in 2018, and the San Jose Sharks are taking a chance on the forward.
Zadina signed a one-year $1.1 million contract on Monday. Here is what he had to say when he spoke to the media on Tuesday.
Why did he choose to come to the San Jose Sharks:
"I choose the Sharks because after I spoke with [David Quinn] and we had a good conversation. We were on the same line, talking about how I can help the team and how the team can help me to improve my game and become a better player. So it was after that call it was pretty much easy to decide where I want to go."
What did Coach Quinn say:
"We kind of talked about what kind of opportunity I'm gonna get and if I earn it. I believe that I'm ready to earn that opportunity that he is willing to provide me. Then we discussed just life around hockey and what's his plan for the season."
What happened in Detroit:
"I've been talking about that decision with my agents for a bit of time. I just wanted to have a fresh start. Last couple of seasons in Detroit, I've been hurt all the time. I wasn't really playing because I was trying to get back on track with my condition, my strength, and everything when I was out, and I wasn't playing."
How is it going to feel playing with a fellow countryman Tomas Hertl:
"That's obviously one of the reasons why I wanted to go to San Jose. Tomas is one of the best centers in the league. [To get[] the chance to play with him, I would absolutely love that. So we'll see if I earn that spot on his wing. If that happens, I would be really happy for sure."
How much interest did other teams have:
"I was actually a little scared that interest was not gonna be as high as I wanted, but it turned out that it was a lot of teams had a big interest to have me on their teams, and I was really happy. It was tough because a lot of teams were asking, and it was making my decisions even harder because there were good teams that I could go to. I believe I did the right decision going to San Jose."
What can you bring to the San Jose Sharks:
"I believe that I can help them and they can help me become a better player. I am going to help the team when in whatever way. In the d-zone, o-zone, blocking shots. So I just really feel like it's the right decision."