Hockey culture is only as strong as its people. People which have always been, and will always be, quite strong.
The combination of putting the team ahead of oneself, battling through the toughest injuries, and fighting for every inch breeds strong people, plain & simple. It's why we love the game.
Minnesota Wild alternate captain Nick Foligno might be the latest reminder of what separates hockey players from ordinary athletes. After sustaining a pretty serious knee injury just a few days ago, he's looking to be in the Wild's lineup on Monday night:
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His rationale for fighting through his injury: It's the playoffs.
That is what you like to see from your players if you're Dean Evason, Wild Head Coach. It sounds like he may not be at 100% however, so don't be surprised if he either looks less sharp or doesn't dress for the first couple of games.
However, he sounds like a motivated man.
