Sergei Bobrovsky had a bit of a reputation in Russia as a successful goalie in shootouts. While Bobrovsky admits he likes shootouts, he plays down his success.
“Why would you say I’m good at shootouts?”, he asks with a laugh. “Last game was my first shootout win in the NHL.”
“I don’t have enough information about the shooters yet. Hopefully I’ll learn more about them over time. I’m just trying to do my best in the meantime.”
“I’m just totally focusing on my own game and trying to improve it, think about my strengths and weaknesses.”
When it comes to his style, Bobrovsky isn’t sure what to call it.
“I’m not sure how to describe it. Every goalie has their own vision of the game. I wouldn’t say that I’m a 100% butterfly goalie. I just try to make the best possible plays depending on the situation.”
Captain
called the
ice girls “the hottest in the league”. Bobrovsky claims that he didn’t really notice them.”I didn’t pay attention to them. And they don’t have ice girls just in Dallas, so I’m used to them.”
Bobrovsky says that having to play without injured Chris Pronger is a challenge, but not a “tragedy”.
“Pronger is a great player, of course. We have to play harder without him. But it’s not a tragedy [to play without him]. Everyone is doing their best and fight to win.”
Bobrovsky had a strong performance against the Stars, but he keeps dodging all questions about the starter role in the playoffs.
“It’s not my concern. We have a coach to deal with this question.”
“I was given the chance to start in Dallas and I just went in and didn’t think about tomorrow or who’s number one and who’s number two.”
“I just live in the moment.”
Bobrovsky says the psychological pressure is just a part of the game afterall.
“Well, that’s hockey. It’s okay. It’s just somewhere in the back of my mind. There’s a time and place for everything. We still have 11 games left before the playoffs.”
And that playoff spot is secured now.
“It’s very good. One of the goals accomplished. But this is just the first step. There’s still a lot of work left.”
Bobrovsky says his English is getting better, too.
“It’s getting better, slowly. I’ve been here for six months. I can’t say it’s perfect, but I already know what’s going on and where and I can explain things.”
If the Flyers go deep in the playoffs, Bobrovsky might have to give tons of interviews afterall.
“Oh, the interviews…”, he laughs. “Well, they’re not my main concern!”
This report was based off of a Russian-language story in the publication Sovietsky Sport.
