Tomas Hertl spoke with Ashali Vise before his drive from San Jose to Vegas about everything involving the Vegas Golden Knights, including why he approved the trade.
Tomas Hertl spoke with Ashali Vise before his drive from San Jose to Vegas about everything involving the Vegas Golden Knights, including why he approved the trade.
Tomas Hertl spoke with Ashali Vise before his drive from San Jose to Vegas about everything involving the Vegas Golden Knights, including why he approved the trade.
Hertl has been apart of playoff runs before but has fallen short each time. In 2015-16 the San Jose Sharks lost in the Stanley Cup finals to the Pittsburgh Penguins and in 2018-19 they lost the St. Louis Blues in the Western Conference finals. Hertl was a key contributor in the WCF loss scoring ten goals and 15 points in 19 games.
Hertl said the hunger is still there and is one of the reasons why he approved the trade to the Golden Knights.
"We've played so much against them because we are in the same division. I know how tough they are. Even the building is so tough to win in," Hertl answered. "I just love the team. I think this team is built like a playoff team. They have a lot of guys who know how to win. When I look at this team, they are just built for playoff runs."
The 30-year-old centre is filled with excitment but also has conflictions about playing at T-Mobile Arena. The Sharks and Golden Knights have built up a rivalry but switching sides like this can take some getting used to.
"The first game will probably be weird for me. I would be lying if it wasn't. I have always enjoyed playing in this arena. There is so much energy. It is so loud. It is crazy. It is different in all hockey arenas. I'm looking forward to playing there, not even because of the rivalry."
The Czech born centre is currently recovering from surgery on his knee but when he is healthy he will be a huge piece of the Golden Knights offence. Hertl is a creative playmaker who can be a goal scoring threat when playing with wingers who fit his playstyle.
Hertl has an affections personality and is always smiling, something he wants to bring with him as he joins the Golden Knights.
"When I was in San Jose, I said fun must be always, so I always try to bring the smile into the room, I am always in a happy mood, but when it's needed, I am not scared to speak up."
Hertl has 15 goals and 34 points this season and will play a crucial role in the Golden Knights playoff run.
Make sure you bookmark THN's Vegas Golden Knights site for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.
How The Trades Of The Other Western Conference Playoff Teams Affects The Golden Knights
Golden Knights Forward William Carrier Moved to LTIR
Golden Knights Forward Nearing Return