Despite ample ice time and shots, Niederreiter remains scoreless as Switzerland faces a crucial quarterfinal. Can he ignite his offense when it matters most?
It has been a quiet Olympic tournament for Nino Niederreiter, and it has not unfolded the way the Winnipeg Jets or their fans might have hoped.
The expectation was that the veteran forward would head to Milan, embrace the opportunity to represent Switzerland on the international stage, and rediscover his offensive touch against a mix of elite and lesser competition. Instead, four games into the tournament, Niederreiter remains without a point, carries a minus-three rating, and has struggled to make a consistent impact.
Tuesday’s matchup against Italy appeared to be a prime opportunity. Niederreiter logged 17:02 of ice time, one of his heavier workloads of the tournament, and directed five shots on goal. Despite the chances and increased minutes, he was once again held off the scoresheet.
The performance has mirrored his season in Winnipeg. Through 55 games, the 33-year-old has recorded just 19 points and is tracking to fall short of the 30-point plateau, a significant dip from the 40 to 50-point production he provided earlier in his career. His name has surfaced in trade speculation in recent weeks, and a change of scenery could potentially benefit both player and club as he searches to regain his offensive rhythm.
Time is running short at the Olympics as Switzerland faces a formidable quarterfinal test Wednesday against Finland men's national ice hockey team. After surrendering four goals in their tournament opener against Slovakia, the Finns have tightened defensively, allowing just one goal combined in their last two games while outscoring opponents 15-1 during that stretch.
It sets up a difficult challenge for Niederreiter and the Swiss in what will almost certainly be a tightly contested elimination game. In crunch time, a timely goal from an experienced NHL forward like Niederreiter could make all the difference.
Fans can tune in to watch Switzerland take on Finland at 11:10 a.m. CT on Wednesday, with Niederreiter looking to deliver when it matters most.
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