For Chicago Blackhawks young players like Alex Vlasic and Oliver Moore, competing at their best isn't just about physical energy - it's also about mental sharpness. Despite fluctuations in both, these youngsters are learning to navigate the game's ups and downs.
"You'll have a game where your legs feel amazing, but then the next one you're struggling," says Vlasic, 24. "It's weird because some days you feel like you can play a full game, while others it feels like you're just going through the motions." This phenomenon isn't unique to him; nearly every NHL player experiences similar struggles.
The key is learning how to surf those waves and still produce consistently, despite fluctuations in energy and mental sharpness. Vlasic admits that when he's tired, he may take shorter shifts until he gets his game face back on. "But I'm not going to say I'm not going to be good tonight just because I'm feeling a little fatigued," he adds.
For rookies like Moore, who has fewer than 100 games of NHL experience under his belt, it's about being committed to the details and having a sharp mind every night. "Sometimes that means tying a shift or focusing on the little things," he says.
Coach Jeff Blashill emphasizes that it's okay not to have an advantageous position - sometimes you just need to play efficient hockey. "Don't try to force it; just play smart, efficient hockey." It might mean putting the puck behind and defending instead of trying to create a scoring chance.
When mistakes do happen, it's essential not to compound them with another mistake. As Murphy notes, "You can win games with your 'B game' - that's just the nature of the game."
This week, as the Blackhawks face their second back-to-back set, these young players will be put to the test again. Despite the pressure, they're learning to trust themselves and their teammates, even when they don't feel like their best.
"You'll have a game where your legs feel amazing, but then the next one you're struggling," says Vlasic, 24. "It's weird because some days you feel like you can play a full game, while others it feels like you're just going through the motions." This phenomenon isn't unique to him; nearly every NHL player experiences similar struggles.
The key is learning how to surf those waves and still produce consistently, despite fluctuations in energy and mental sharpness. Vlasic admits that when he's tired, he may take shorter shifts until he gets his game face back on. "But I'm not going to say I'm not going to be good tonight just because I'm feeling a little fatigued," he adds.
For rookies like Moore, who has fewer than 100 games of NHL experience under his belt, it's about being committed to the details and having a sharp mind every night. "Sometimes that means tying a shift or focusing on the little things," he says.
Coach Jeff Blashill emphasizes that it's okay not to have an advantageous position - sometimes you just need to play efficient hockey. "Don't try to force it; just play smart, efficient hockey." It might mean putting the puck behind and defending instead of trying to create a scoring chance.
When mistakes do happen, it's essential not to compound them with another mistake. As Murphy notes, "You can win games with your 'B game' - that's just the nature of the game."
This week, as the Blackhawks face their second back-to-back set, these young players will be put to the test again. Despite the pressure, they're learning to trust themselves and their teammates, even when they don't feel like their best.
. It's just hockey, you can't put a price on rest and recovery 
. These young players need to be told that it's okay to not be 100% all the time, instead of trying to will their bodies into exhaustion. And what's with the emphasis on "playing smart" rather than actually being able to skate circles around guys 
. I mean, I get it, fatigue is a thing, but so are skill and talent 
. Can't they just focus on developing those skills without having to worry about being "efficient"? 
I think it's so cool how hockey players like Alex Vlasic and Oliver Moore are learning to navigate those ups and downs on the ice! 
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It's not always about being in the spotlight or scoring goals, but rather about making smart decisions and working together as a team.
I mean, Alex Vlasic is right, some days you're on fire 
and others it's like you're just going through the motions 
and come back when you're feeling fresh again.
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, so I'm rooting for them! They'll get there eventually 
The NHL is basically just a never-ending cycle of exhaustion 
. And let's be real, most people aren't good the second half of their shift 
. The pressure to perform is high, but at least they're learning to adapt and play smart, efficient hockey 
. Still, 100 games under your belt doesn't mean much if you can barely make it through a full game 
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. It's not just about being tired or feeling a little fatigued, but also about managing expectations and staying focused under pressure. They're still learning and growing, and it's awesome that their coaches are emphasizing the importance of playing smart and efficient hockey 
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. It takes a lot of humility and self-awareness, especially at such a young age. And hey, even if they don't feel like their A-game, they can still make an impact with their "B game" 
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. It's not about being perfect, it's about making the most of what you've got. And honestly, sometimes that means playing with a lower energy level and just trying to execute on defense 
. And it's not just physical energy, it's also mental fatigue. You can't pour from an empty cup, right? 
I think it's so cool how Alex Vlasic and Oliver Moore are learning to navigate the ups and downs of playing in the NHL. It's not always easy, but that's what makes it so amazing. Like, who doesn't struggle with fatigue or just having an off game sometimes? 
. And I love how they're learning to trust themselves and each other - that's what makes the game so special 
. Don't try to be a superhero, just do your thing. And Moore, man... 100 games in? That's crazy! He's gotta stay focused on those little details, like tying up shifts and all that jazz 
. It's not always easy, but that's what makes it so satisfying when they come out on top. And trust me, after a few sleepless nights or a rough practice, I can relate to feeling like you're just going through the motions 
! They've got this