As New York Rangers youngster Pavel Buchnevich prepares for the upcoming season, he spoke with the Russian Website Championat.com about an interesting topic.
Pavel Buchnevich is still not comfortable speaking in English to the American media, but during games, he is able to communicate with his teammates — which is the most important thing at this juncture of his young career. Buchnevich, however, was recently interviewed by Russian website Championat.com and was able to provide some insight on his team. SNY.com translated the conversation:
On former Ranger Derek Stepan being traded to Arizona:
“Derek Stepan is a substantial loss but the team has young players like JT Miller and Kevin Hayes that will get more experience and should be better next season.”
With regards to his play last season, Pavel said, “He was supported by his teammates during his goal drought. He looks at his season as mixed due to his injuries and that after he returned from injury he didn’t have a definite spot in the lineup.”
When discussing New York City he replied he, “went to Central Park once.”
Pavel’s back injury has healed and he rehabbed with his former KHL team while he was back in Russia.
Still waiting for a Zibenejad Deal
The arbitration hearing for Mika Zibenejad is Jul. 25 and, as of now, no deal has been announced. This shouldn’t be an issue dollar wise for the two sides to agree on. The issue will probably be in the length of the contract. Sean Hartnett feels sides should be able to avoid arbitration but the clock is running for both sides to get it done.