There's probably a lot of people wondering if I can play.

All that matters is that you find a way to put the puck in the net. It doesn't matter how. I learned that from Mario.

In the U.S., you have so many rules, everything's regulated and structured. When you make a mistake, you pay for it -a lot.

Many European guys go to the N.H.L. at a young age, even without knowing English. But they quickly adapt to new conditions, another game, a new country. They are also young, receptive, can move mountains.

You appreciate things after you lose them.

Russia has got to be the team to beat, in my opinion. When they are playing together as a team, they are tough to beat.

My goal was to play in the NHL, because that is the best hockey in the world.