Best lacrosse head for shooting. Top 7 Best Lacrosse Heads for Attack in 2023: Enhance Your Shooting and Performance

What are the best lacrosse heads for attack players in 2023. How do these heads improve shooting accuracy and ball control. Which features should attackmen look for when choosing a lacrosse head.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Lacrosse Head for Attack Players

Selecting the appropriate lacrosse head is crucial for attack players looking to elevate their game. The right head can significantly impact shooting accuracy, ball control, and overall performance on the field. As technology and design continue to evolve, manufacturers are constantly improving their products to meet the demands of elite attackmen.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 7 lacrosse heads for attack players in 2023, examining their unique features and benefits. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or an up-and-coming player, understanding the nuances of these heads will help you make an informed decision and potentially take your game to the next level.

Under Armour Command 2: Versatility and All-Weather Performance

The Under Armour Command 2 kicks off our list at number 7, offering a solid option for intermediate to advanced attackmen. This head stands out for its versatility and all-weather design, making it a reliable choice for players who compete in various conditions.

Key Features of the Under Armour Command 2:

• All-weather design for consistent performance in extreme temperatures
• ‘Glide + scoop’ technology for fast ground ball pickups
• Optimally positioned scoop for improved ball control

How does the Command 2’s all-weather design benefit attackmen? The specialized construction ensures that the head maintains its shape and performance characteristics regardless of temperature fluctuations. This consistency allows players to focus on their game without worrying about equipment changes affecting their play.

Maverik Kinetik: Elite Performance for Top-Rated Attackmen

Coming in at number 6, the Maverik Kinetik is a popular choice among elite offensive players. This head is designed to meet the demanding needs of top-tier attackmen who require precision and consistency in their equipment.

Standout Features of the Maverik Kinetik:

• X-Rail Technology for enhanced structural integrity
• DuraTough material for increased durability
• Engineered for consistent mid-high pocket placement

Why is the Kinetik highly sought after by elite attackmen? The combination of advanced materials and innovative design allows for exceptional shot control and accuracy. The consistent pocket placement ensures that players can rely on the same feel and performance shot after shot, crucial for developing muscle memory and improving overall shooting ability.

STX Surgeon: Quick Release and Enhanced Control

The STX Surgeon takes the fifth spot on our list, offering a perfect balance of control and speed. This head is engineered for players who prioritize a quick release without sacrificing ball control.

Notable Attributes of the STX Surgeon:

• ACP™ All Climate Performance technology for enhanced control in all weather conditions
• Designed for advanced ball control and increased versatility
• Optimized for a lightning-quick release

How does the Surgeon’s ACP™ technology benefit attackmen in varying weather conditions? This innovative feature ensures that the head maintains its grip and feel on the ball, regardless of humidity, rain, or temperature. This consistency allows players to maintain their performance level and shooting accuracy even when environmental factors are less than ideal.

Warrior Evo Warp Pro: Innovative Design for Effortless Power

Securing the fourth position, the Warrior Evo Warp Pro introduces cutting-edge technology to enhance shooting power and accuracy. This head is particularly well-suited for players who value both control and shot velocity.

Innovative Features of the Warrior Evo Warp Pro:

• LOC-Throat™ technology for increased stiffness and stability
• Designed for mid-to-low pocket placement
• Optimized for faster shots with less effort

What sets the Evo Warp Pro apart from other attack heads? The LOC-Throat™ technology is a game-changer, providing unparalleled stiffness and stability at the throat of the head. This innovative design allows players to generate more power with less effort, resulting in faster, more accurate shots.

Nike Vapor: Professional-Grade Performance and Precision

The Nike Vapor secures the third spot on our list, offering a blend of high performance and improved ball control. This head is favored by many professional players for its exceptional accuracy and durability.

Key Attributes of the Nike Vapor:

• High-performance material for stiff construction
• Deep offset profile for enhanced ball control
• Popular among professional players

How does the Vapor’s deep offset profile contribute to improved ball control? The offset design creates a deeper pocket, allowing for better ball retention during dodges and improved feel when cradling. This feature, combined with the stiff construction, provides players with the confidence to make quick moves and precise passes in high-pressure situations.

ECD Lacrosse Mirage: Pro-Level Features for Elite Performance

Taking the second spot, the ECD Lacrosse Mirage is designed with the offensive player in mind. This head offers a combination of durability, control, and style that appeals to elite attackmen.

Standout Features of the ECD Lacrosse Mirage:

• High-grade construction for exceptional durability
• Aggressive flare for added control
• Incorporates high-tech features used by professional players

Why is the Mirage particularly well-suited for offensive players? The aggressive flare of the head provides excellent ball control, allowing attackmen to maintain possession during intense dodges and traffic. The high-grade construction ensures that the head can withstand the rigors of high-level play, maintaining its shape and performance over time.

Maverik Optik 2.0: The Ultimate Attack Head for 2023

Claiming the top spot on our list, the Maverik Optik 2.0 stands out as the premier attack head for 2023. This head combines innovative technology with proven performance to deliver an unparalleled lacrosse experience.

Elite Features of the Maverik Optik 2.0:

• XRAIL Technology for ultra-accurate shots
• Duratough material for increased stiffness and durability
• Efficient stress distribution for consistent performance

What makes the Optik 2.0 the best attack head for 2023? The combination of XRAIL Technology and Duratough material creates a head that offers both precision and durability. The efficient stress distribution ensures that the head maintains its shape and performance level even after extended use, making it a reliable choice for players at all levels.

How does the Optik 2.0’s XRAIL Technology contribute to shot accuracy? This innovative feature provides a consistent release point for the ball, allowing players to develop muscle memory and improve their shooting accuracy over time. The technology also helps to minimize flex during shots, ensuring that energy is efficiently transferred from the player’s motion to the ball.

Choosing the Right Attack Head for Your Style of Play

When selecting an attack head, it’s essential to consider your individual playing style and preferences. Factors to consider include:

1. Pocket depth and placement
2. Head stiffness and durability
3. Weather resistance
4. Release speed
5. Ball control features

By carefully evaluating these factors and comparing them to the features of the heads discussed in this article, you can make an informed decision that will help elevate your game to the next level.

The Impact of Technology on Lacrosse Head Design

As we’ve seen throughout this list, technological advancements have significantly influenced the design and performance of lacrosse heads. From innovative materials like Duratough to cutting-edge features like XRAIL Technology, manufacturers are constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in lacrosse equipment.

These advancements have led to heads that offer improved durability, enhanced ball control, and more consistent performance across various weather conditions. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative features that will further enhance the capabilities of attack players.

The Importance of Proper Maintenance for Your Lacrosse Head

To ensure that your chosen attack head maintains its performance over time, proper maintenance is crucial. Here are some tips to keep your lacrosse head in top condition:

• Clean your head regularly with mild soap and water
• Avoid extreme temperatures that could warp the plastic
• Store your stick properly to maintain the head’s shape
• Replace worn-out mesh or strings to maintain optimal pocket performance
• Inspect your head regularly for signs of wear or damage

By following these maintenance tips, you can extend the life of your lacrosse head and ensure that it continues to perform at its best, game after game.

The Role of Player Feedback in Lacrosse Head Development

Many of the top lacrosse head manufacturers rely heavily on feedback from professional and collegiate players when developing new products. This input from elite athletes helps ensure that new heads meet the demands of high-level play and address the specific needs of attack players.

For example, the Maverik Optik 2.0’s design was influenced by feedback from professional players who requested a head that offered both precision and durability. Similarly, the STX Surgeon’s quick-release feature was developed in response to players’ desire for a head that could keep up with the fast-paced nature of modern lacrosse.

The Future of Lacrosse Head Design

As we look to the future of lacrosse head design, we can expect to see continued innovation in materials, manufacturing techniques, and performance-enhancing features. Some potential areas of development include:

• Advanced composite materials for improved strength-to-weight ratios
• Customizable heads that can be tailored to individual playing styles
• Integration of smart technology for performance tracking and analysis
• Further improvements in all-weather performance
• Enhanced sustainability in manufacturing processes and materials

These potential advancements could revolutionize the way attack players approach the game, providing even greater levels of control, accuracy, and consistency.

The Importance of Trying Different Heads

While this list provides a comprehensive overview of the top attack heads for 2023, it’s important to remember that personal preference plays a significant role in equipment selection. What works for one player may not be the best choice for another.

If possible, try out different heads through demos, borrowing from teammates, or visiting local lacrosse shops that offer test equipment. This hands-on experience can help you determine which head feels most comfortable and suits your playing style best.

Balancing Cost and Performance

When selecting an attack head, it’s essential to consider your budget alongside performance features. While the heads on this list represent some of the top options available, they also come with premium price tags. For players on a tighter budget, consider looking at previous year’s models or mid-range options that still offer solid performance features.

Remember that investing in a high-quality head can potentially improve your game and last longer, making it a worthwhile investment for serious players. However, it’s crucial to balance this with your current skill level and commitment to the sport.

The Role of Proper Stringing in Head Performance

While the design and construction of the head play a significant role in its performance, proper stringing is equally important. Even the best attack head can underperform if it’s not strung correctly. Consider these factors when stringing your new head:

• Pocket depth and placement
• String tension and consistency
• Type of mesh or traditional materials used
• Compliance with league regulations

If you’re not confident in your stringing abilities, consider having your head strung by a professional or experienced teammate to ensure optimal performance.

Adapting to Your New Attack Head

When transitioning to a new attack head, it’s important to allow for an adjustment period. Even if you’ve chosen one of the top heads on this list, it may take some time to get used to its unique characteristics. Here are some tips for adapting to your new head:

1. Practice wall ball regularly to get a feel for the head’s release and catch
2. Experiment with different shooting techniques to find what works best
3. Pay attention to how the head performs in various weather conditions
4. Seek feedback from coaches or experienced teammates
5. Be patient and allow time for muscle memory to develop

Remember that consistency in practice is key to maximizing the benefits of your new attack head.

The 7 Best Lacrosse Heads For Attack (2023)

The 7 Best Lacrosse Heads For Attack (2023) | SidelineSwap BlogAmrith Malli Reddi

Amrith Malli Reddi

3/3/2023

LacrosseGear Reviews

When it comes to lacrosse, it’s no secret that good attackmen need to possess the drive, ability, and work ethic to constantly hang onto or regain a loose ball. They also need to be able to take advantage of transition opportunities by getting open and firing off a quick release shot. In order to accomplish all this, they need an attack lacrosse head that allows them to do so. There are tons of lacrosse heads available today which makes narrowing down the best ones difficult. We’ve decided to attack (pun intended) this challenge and help you out by counting down our picks for the 7 best attack lacrosse heads for 2022.

7. Under Armour Command 2

Starting off our list at number 7 is the Under Armour Command 2.

The Command 2 Lacrosse Head was specifically designed for intermediate to advanced level attackmen. The all-weather design allows for better performance in extreme temperatures and the ‘glide + scoop’ technology pairs with a perfectly positioned scoop that ensures fast ground ball pickups every time.

6. Maverik Kinetik

Next up at number 6 is the Maverik Kinetik.

The Maverik Kinetik lacrosse head is built to meet the needs of elite offensive players for which consistent head and mid-high pocket are must-haves. Highly sought after by top-rated attackmen, the Kinetik is constructed using advanced X-Rail Technology, DuraTough material, and an innovative new approach to developing a lacrosse head that will provide shot after shot of controllable performance with high levels of accuracy.

5. STX Surgeon

Up next is the STX Surgeon: a head skillfully made for players seeking enhanced control and a quicker release.

The STX Surgeon is a lacrosse head engineered specifically for the player looking for multiple performance benefits, such as advanced ball control, increased all-weather versatility, and of course: a lightning quick release.

With a new ACP™ All Climate Performance technology that provides enhanced control in all weather conditions, the Surgeon is an excellent choice for attackmen who seek both control and speed – attributes typically found in separate heads crafted for distinct playing styles.

4. Warrior Evo Warp Pro

At number 4 we’ve got the Warrior Evo Warp Pro.

The Evo Warp Pro is one of Warrior’s most advanced, game-winning heads.

It is one of the first attack heads with Warrior’s one of a kind breakthrough LOC-Throat™ technology for increased stiffness and stability – allowing you to unleash a faster shot with less effort. This head allows mid-to-low pocket placement that makes it the ideal choice for control and precision.

3. Nike Vapor

The Nike Vapor is a head that delivers improved ball control and enhanced accuracy.

Made with high performance material for a stiff construction alongside a deep offset profile for better-improved ball control, the Nike Vapor is professionally crafted as one of the most popular Nike lacrosse heads available.

2. ECD Lacrosse Mirage

Next up is a head precisely tailored for players in need of added control and depth control: the ECD Lacrosse Mirage.

Designed with the offensive player in mind, the stylish EDC Mirage is built with high-grade construction that provides exceptional durability and an aggressive flare for added control. Overall, the Mirage is specifically built to provide lacrosse players with the same high-tech features used by the pros.

1. Maverik Optik 2.0

Finally, rounding out our list at number 1 we’ve got the Maverik Optik 2.0.

A proven performer since day one, the Optik 2.0 is built from the ground up to ensure you can count on it for years with elite-level performance that gives you a sleek, efficient way to take your game to the next level.

Maverik’s inventive XRAIL Technology not only delivers ultra-accurate shots but also offers an efficient stress distribution that helps maintain a higher overall performance level at all times. The Optik 2.0 also features state-of-the-art Duratough material that provides increased stiffness and unmatched durability to create a more responsive head for winning plays.

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How to protect your teeth while playing sports?

Teeth

Make an appointment

For some professional athletes, such as hockey players, for example, losing a tooth during a match is a matter of course. And it has nothing to do with how professional you are. These things happen to a lot of hockey players. A tooth lost as a result of a sports injury is not just an unpleasant moment, it is a lot of stress and unplanned expenses for dental treatment.

Remember that the cost of restoring a lost tooth is 10 times more than the cost of making a mouthguard! According to statistics, hockey players who do not use protective mouthguards during the game are more likely to get injured.

Everyone who is actively involved in any kind of sport sooner or later faces various injuries. And they are not necessarily related to playing sports as such – sometimes someone else can accidentally hit you, hurt you, etc.

1. Dental guards

This is the simplest solution that will help protect your teeth, especially if you are actively involved in sports, playing football, hockey, rugby.

2. Helmet

In protecting the face, not only the cap is important, but also the helmet. It helps protect not only the head, but also the jaw from injury. Hockey players wear a special helmet with a visor that protects the face from sticks and pucks. But know that each sport has its own helmet – if you have a helmet for cycling at home, this does not mean that it is suitable for playing hockey or rugby.

3. Individual sports

Even when you are cycling, skiing and skating, you should always remember that your head, face and smile are protected from falling. But the helmet also does not fully protect the face.

Which groups in active sports are at risk?

The possibility of injury to the face, jaw or teeth exists in almost all sports, but most often injuries are caused by young athletes involved in extreme sports – BMX, roller skating, skateboarding, as well as various ball games, hockey and snowboarding. Unfortunately, we think about protection at the last moment, usually when the injury has already been received. An injury that affects our appearance, well-being and health.

Most often, patients who have lost a tooth or part of it as a result of a sports injury or impact need help. Due to injuries, noticeable defects appear – broken teeth or knocked out front teeth. In the US, for example, studies show that each year more than 5 million people lose their teeth while playing sports.

The American Dental Association recommends the use of mouth guards when training or competing in the following sports: Acrobatics, Basketball, Boxing, Field Hockey, Football, Gymnastics, Handball, Ice Hockey, Lacrosse, Martial Arts, Rugby, Shooting, Skateboarding, Skating skiing, parachuting, football, squash, surfing, volleyball, water polo and weightlifting.

What should I do to protect my teeth during active sports?!

If you love skiing, snowboarding, or your child skateboards or does any other sport that puts their teeth at risk, then you should consider wearing a protective mouthguard in addition to an appropriate suit.

Parents have an obligation to protect their children during sports and play! Adults who are involved in dangerous sports involving impacts, falls, will be able to appreciate the benefits of protective mouthguards. It is better to use a protective cap during active sports than to undergo long-term treatment as a result of an injury. Fortunately, we live in a time when modern methods of replacing a missing tooth are available – dental implants or alternative aesthetic methods of prosthetics.

What do you need to know about mouthguards?

There are three types of mouth guards to help keep your teeth safe and sound.

Ready mouthguard is the cheapest option to protect your teeth. These types of mouthguards cost from 4 to 10 euros and usually come in three standard sizes S, M, L. They are made according to the “one size fits all” principle, so these mouthguards are uncomfortable, they do not “adjust” to the bite and position of the teeth in the mouth . Dentists do not advise using them, as they will interfere more than perform the function of protecting teeth. However, if you are faced with the choice of risking your dental health and not using a mouth guard at all, then this short-term option will be much better than losing a front tooth during a workout.

The second type is thermoplastic caps . They are placed in hot water and then inserted into the mouth where they take the form of a bite. This option is more expensive – about 20-50 euros, but such mouthguards are much more convenient and functional.

Both types of caps are available from sports shops and pharmacies.

The third option is custom mouthguard . It is made by a dentist in collaboration with a dental laboratory. This mouthguard provides the best protection and comfort. The cost of such a cap is about 100 euros.

If you or your child has braces, dentures or implants, be sure to consult your dentist about how to protect your teeth! It is the dentist who will be able to evaluate and advise the best solution that will protect your teeth without causing discomfort.

Mouthguard must be strong, elastic and comfortable, fully fit the shape of the teeth, without restricting breathing. The most common type of mouthguards are mouthguards designed for the upper jaw. Mouthguards are custom-made in the dental laboratory, so they fit perfectly to the teeth, do not wobble and are easy to use. They are definitely more comfortable than the first type of mouth guard available at sporting goods stores.

Mouthguards are made from a soft, flexible material that conforms to your teeth for maximum protection. Mouthguards are also made in different colors (from neon to transparent), to match the color of your team’s uniform, etc., so children and teenagers willingly agree to wear them.

How to take care of the mouthguard?

The mouth guard should be cared for in the same way as your teeth – after training or playing, rinse it with water and clean it with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Give it time to dry naturally – do not leave the mouth guard in a hot place / room (on a radiator or in direct sunlight), as it may become deformed. Your dentist will advise you on the best care for your mouth guard so that it can last you as long as possible!

When should I change my mouthguard?

If you notice cracks and strong abrasions on the smooth surface of the cap, this is a sign that it needs to be replaced with a new one. Bacteria can start to build up in cracks and other surface imperfections, so it’s best to ask your dentist to repair or replace your mouthguard.

Take care not only of your physical fitness and health, but also of your safety. So, you will avoid unnecessary injuries and costs.

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“My opponent cheated there. And why did they write me a lamb?! I hit the gate! Alexander Ovechkin was indignant at the star show

The captain of “Washington” Alexander Ovechkin, of course, was angry as a joke. But he gave a detailed interview, as did Andrei Svechnikov, who won the speed race. Also on the second day of the NHL All-Star Game, we listened to Nikita Kucherov and Andrey Vasilevsky.

Captain of “Washington” Alexander Ovechkin, of course, was angry as a joke. But he gave a detailed interview, as did Andrei Svechnikov, who won the speed race. Also on the second day of the NHL All-Star Game, we listened to Nikita Kucherov and Andrey Vasilevsky.

• Sunrise (USA, Florida) hosted the first day of the 2023 NHL All-Star Game.
• Nine Russian hockey players took part in the competitions of the event, which is a record.
• Washington Capitals captain Alexander Ovechkin was included in the competition for the strongest shot, as well as the most beautiful shootout. The forward won the competition for the beauty of the shootout in tandem with Pittsburgh captain Sidney Crosby. Both hockey players performed in tandem, and the final throw was made by Ovechkin’s son.
• Nikita Kucherov (Tampa Bay Lightning), Artemy Panarin (New York Rangers) and Vladimir Tarasenko (St. Louis Blues) took part in the shooting accuracy contest.
• Kirill Kaprizov (Minnesota Wild) and Andrey Svechnikov (Carolina Hurricanes) competed in the speed competition. In the end, Svechnikov became the winner.
• Goalkeepers Igor Shesterkin (Rangers), Ilya Sorokin (New York Islanders) and Andrei Vasilevsky (Tampa) were also invited to compete.

Ovechkin: “I don’t know where my son learned to shoot like that”

Four-year-old Sergei Ovechkin, son of Alexander the Great, was in the spotlight at this NHL All-Star Game.

Serezha, together with his dad and uncle Sidney Crosby, won the competition for the most beautiful shootout, when two hockey megastars of our time took him to the throw, and Ovi-Junior did not miss.

Ovechkin Sr. himself also participated in the click power contest. And there he just missed, not hitting an empty net on the first try. Alexander told about this with a laugh, talking with journalists.

Photo: © REUTERS / Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

— How do you like skill competitions?

— Very cool. Everyone enjoyed it, my son Sergei smiled and was happy. He constantly asked me: “When will hockey be held? So when?!” I answered him: “Listen, wait, wait. ” Then the son was a little disappointed when it was over. But in general, everything went at the highest level, the guys enjoyed it.

— What about your shootout with your son and Sidney Crosby?

– It’s a special moment because we both loved it and the fans. It’s good for hockey and for both of us. I think that Sergey also got unforgettable impressions.

— Who even came up with this idea?

— So hard to say. Initially, I just wanted Sergey to be on the ice with me during competitions. And it was hard to come up with something with his participation. But then Sid and I said to each other at the same time: “Let’s try to do such a thing as he punches a bullet.” Well, we tried.

– Serezha scored a great goal.

– Yes, he did a great trick! At first I even thought that he swung to make a click. But it worked like that, and he scored.

Photo: © REUTERS / Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

— What does this evening mean to you, and that your son was in the locker room, and that you played with Crosby?

– That’s great. I remember when I was younger and also participated in the All-Star Game. There were so many legends around, and this is not forgotten, of course. Now we have matured, we have more experience, a more authentic career. But still, you feel delight from such moments.

As I said, we will remember this atmosphere for a long time, how we chatted in the locker room, talked with the guys, joked. My son was there. This is especially.

— Are you surprised Elias Pettersson won the click power contest? On the surface, he does not seem to be a very powerful hockey player.

– It seemed to me that Elias was a little cheating there, because … Well, in fact, you look at him and you will never say … Come on, I’m joking. Look, well, that’s good for him. Well done. So my first attempt didn’t work out at all, and I didn’t even hit an empty net. I’m like, “Well, okay, I didn’t hit and didn’t hit.” After all, we are here to have fun, so that people look at us and have fun.

– Did you have a goal of hitting 100 miles per hour? And in the first attempt, you got zero.

– Well, yes, although it’s strange – after all, there the puck crossed the line where the freeze was taken. Well, yes, I hit the bar. But they didn’t give me any result on the scoreboard at all. They just wrote: “Toss by.”

I’m like, “What?!” But after all, I hit the gate, even if it hit the post. Give me something! But they wrote me zero – a bagel!

— What do you see as the meaning of these contests?

– Well, we come here for this. I think people want to see some beautiful tricks, skill, interesting moments. It’s all about skills, a good game, beautiful moves. And I want to win the stellar match itself, of course.

— Where did Sergey learn how to shoot shootouts so well?

– To be honest, he watched a lot of different videos. And it doesn’t matter who scored there – the son tried to peep some kind of movement, feint, repeat it. And somehow it stuck in his head, and now he did it. How he did it, I don’t know. I will ask him.

Photo: © REUTERS / Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

Is he a big fan?

– Yes, he is a hockey fan, that’s for sure. And now he was very glad that he could go on the red carpet. I already said that this is a special moment for him, for my family, for everyone. It was cool.

– Who is the top rated babysitter on this star show? Who took better care of your son? Maybe Kirill Kaprizov?

– He is in second place, and in first place is Ilya Sorokin.

– What do you think about the fact that Washington re-signed Dylan Strome for five years?

– I found out about this before the skill competitions. Very happy for him. Dylan is a great guy, a great player. And every year it will get better and better. So we are all happy that he stays with us.

Svechnikov: “I didn’t play for the national team, but now I saw the Russian guys” 97 ), Dylan Larkin (14.558) and Cale Makar (22.304).

Andrey Svechnikov / Photo: © REUTERS / Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

— Do you like it here, Andrey?

– Yes, to be honest, it’s a lot of fun here. I was even a little nervous at first. ..

– You have not participated in the NHL All-Star Game before.

– But then I saw that other guys don’t really care about these skill contests. And he relaxed himself, trying to enjoy himself. Yes, it was a fun day.

— How did you manage to win the speed race?

– When I went to the start, I was even worried, especially when I started to run. But then the nerves went away, and I just drove. And it was fun.

– You were warmly congratulated by your teammates. They were really rooting for you!

– Well, I think anyone would be congratulated in such a situation. Yes, we have a friendly team.

– How did you manage to develop such a high speed?

– Well, I don’t even know. Of course, there is an element of luck here. And it is important to be injury-free at the time of the race. Yes, you just run and try to be as fast as you can.

Andrey Svechnikov / Photo: © REUTERS / Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

— How did you even know that you would participate in the speed race?

– Three days ago I was told that I would run a speed lap. Well, I’m like, “Well, let’s run.”

— So easy?

– Well, yes. Maybe this will not seem so easy, because before such a race you need to warm up well so as not to twitch your muscles. And it can be scary that you are running and cornering incorrectly or something will fall under the skate, and you will fit into the side at high speed. But I really hoped that I would not fall – this is the only thing I was worried about. And ran on the positive.

– Did you ask someone for advice on how best to run?

– Actually, no.

– Surprised that Connor McDavid refused to take part in the speed race?

— No. But if he had participated, he would definitely have overtaken me. There can’t even be any doubt! So I got lucky.

— How do you like the atmosphere here in general?

– This is my first participation, so I just enjoy the atmosphere. It is valuable when you can spend a few days in the company of the best players in the world. Communicate with them, be together in the locker room. It’s unforgettable.

Photo: © REUTERS / Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

Are you looking forward to the All-Star Game itself?

— Yes, another wonderful day awaits us tomorrow. I really look forward to the matches themselves.

– Have you seen this format before?

– Yes, yes, I watched the previous All-Star Games, of course.

— Well, how do you like it?

– This is a stress-free game of beauty, in which there is a lot of skill. And you just have to go on the ice to show what you can do. That’s all.

– Is the 3v3 format going to be very intense?

– Well, I don’t think so. Rather, we will play relaxed, trying to have fun. In fact, all hockey players here are aimed precisely at this.

– Yes, you have a cool atmosphere here.

– Yeah, look, everyone is smiling, laughing, joking. Everyone is chatting with each other and not stressing about anything.

– Have you seen how speed races used to be held?

– In general, I won’t say that I concentrated on this so much. But I used to watch highlights. Or today I went to social networks, and several links from previous years popped up for me. So I tried to do it in the same spirit.

– A lot of Russian guys came here. How do you like their company?

– I was glad to meet them. Because I didn’t have such a chance before, after all, I never played for the adult Russian team, I didn’t go to any tournaments. And now we have met and had a very good conversation.

Photo: © REUTERS / Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

— How do you like Sergey Ovechkin? Nice boy?

– Yes, of course, this is not even discussed!

– Even a female hockey player participated in competitions with you. How unusual is this?

– Well, yes, this is rare. I got into a conversation with one goalkeeper, and he said that this girl has a very strong shot. That is, the puck directly hits the trap hard. So it’s great that she participated with us.

– Have you thought about doing goal lacrosse here? You made it trendy!

– Well, yes, but I didn’t think about it. Because now so many people want to score a lacrosse goal. Every day I see some links about this. He stopped being original.

– So, and your speed race with McDavid – it’s a pity that we didn’t see it.

– Well, everyone knows that McDavid is very fast. Who else can challenge him? It seems only Dylan Larkin. After all, he now owns the record? Well, I would like to compete with Connor. That would be very funny too.

Photo: © REUTERS / Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

Vasilevsky: “We decided the fate of the competition on rock-paper-scissors”

Third scorer of the league Nikita Kucherov took part in the competition for throwing accuracy. And he dropped out already in the preliminary round, showing a time of 18.147 seconds. This is the fifth result out of ten participants, and the top four advanced to the semi-finals. Among them, by the way, was Artemy Panarin (13.235). Vladimir Tarasenko (25.062) showed the seventh time. Islanders forward Brock Nelson won the competition (12,419), who surpassed Nazim Qadri (18. 276) in the final.

– Nikita, this is your fourth participation in the NHL All-Star Game. How do you like it here, when compared with the experience of previous years? – they asked Kucherov.

– Well, it’s cool here – and it’s good that it’s close to Tampa. Therefore, the whole family was able to come, we are having a good time here. And I personally am very pleased to see many familiar guys here, to chat with them in the locker room. It’s great to be a part of such an event. It’s really fun.

— What can you say about your performance in the shooting accuracy competition?

– Well, I don’t know, I could do better. But what is, is. In general, I like to give passes more than shoot on goal.

Andrei Vasilevsky took part in the competition of goalkeepers, who played in tandem. First place with 13 points was taken by the Central Division (Yuse Saros and Connor Hellebike), the second was Stuart Skinner and Logan Thompson (11 points) from the Pacific Division, the third place was taken by Vasilevsky and Linus Ulmark (9) from the Atlantic Division, and fourth were Igor Shesterkin and Ilya Sorokin (6) from the Capital Division.

Igor Shesterkin / Photo: © REUTERS / Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

– Andrey, you have been invited to the NHL All-Star Game for the fifth time. How much do you like it here?

– If we talk about skill competitions, then there are very funny competitions. Some new things have been introduced, especially with the participation of goalkeepers. We have a lot of fun here, and it’s great that so many Russians came to the star match. It’s great.

– There was a goalkeeper competition when it was necessary to decide which of them shoots across the court and who just protects the goal. How did you decide on the team of your division who did what?

— Well, how is it usually done? On rock-paper-scissors. This usually resolves.

– Seriously?

– Well, not at all. We talked with a partner (Linus Ulmark) and we decided that we would have a better chance of winning if I tried not to shoot on goal, but to stop a few shots. And we decided to make it so that he shoots, and I hit the pucks.