Before defenseman Ryan McDonagh headed out for the All Star Break, he took a minute to answer five quick questions.
How would you describe the season so far?
"Our season has been a lot of growth, a lot of young players," McDonagh said.
It isn't just the young players who are focused on growing their game though.
"Even myself — always feel like I'm learning, trying to get better, grow as a player, as a leader," the 14-year veteran said.
McDonagh's experience in the league is a valuable resource on a team with plenty of young players learning what it takes to have a long and successful NHL career. That's been a big part of the season for McDonagh as well.
"Finding different ways to help the group win games, both obviously on the ice but off the ice, helping guys that way, "McDonagh said. "I think just a lot of growth and confidence and more importantly, attitude."
What does your game day preparation look like?
"I have a nice pregame meal, and try to rest and relax a little bit with a nap," McDonagh said. "Don't always nap as much anymore."
The 34-year-old averages 21:34 minutes of ice time per game, so one might think the physical preparation is the main focus on game day, but not so with McDonagh.
"I just try throughout the whole day to ramp up mentally and physically to be ready for puck drop. It's kind of a long process mentally, more so than physically. Just trying to get your mind ready to compete and work hard."
If you could change or clarify one rule in the NHL, what would it be?
"I think there should be a way to almost challenge penalties maybe," McDonagh said after some thought.
"I feel like the NFL has gotten it right where they can review and challenge a play. Maybe some missed calls at certain points where you could be able to challenge or whatnot."
McDonagh understands that officiating is a tricky job.
"Obviously missed calls are happening both directions, but crucial points to the game, you feel like an opportunity to get yourself on the power play could be the difference in the game. Sometimes the ref just doesn't see it or doesn't make the call. Maybe you can challenge it and get yourself on the power play."
If you have down time are you more likely to read a book, watch a show, or listen to music?
"Mostly read books," McDonagh said.
His genre of choice? Nonfiction.
"I like true stories, nonfiction. I just try to sit and learn from other people's experiences and hear about great stories, inspirational stories and try to take that and apply it to my life."
Do you have a favorite hockey memory?
That was an easy one for the veteran to answer.
"Winning the Stanley Cup."
McDonagh and the Tampa Bay Lightning won back to back Stanley Cups in 2020 and 2021. Winning that first one was a special but unique experience.
"The first one there in the bubble — maybe not exactly how you envisioned it, but just to do it with that group there, everything we went through. Very special."
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