Michael Misa, a proficient center, showcased his scoring prowess by amassing 134 points in 65 games in the Ontario Hockey League last season. This impressive performance led to his selection as the No. 2 overall pick by the San Jose Sharks in the recent NHL draft. Despite starting his professional career with a goal, Misa faced a setback due to an ankle injury in early November, which sidelined him for a month.
Currently, Misa is part of Team Canada at the world junior hockey championship, aiming to contribute to their quest for the gold medal. In the tournament, he has managed only one assist in Canada’s victories against the Czech Republic and Latvia. Adjusting to the international level after a prolonged absence due to injury has been a challenge for him.
Playing alongside Tij Iginla and Porter Martone on Canada’s top line, Misa acknowledges the need to enhance his performance and chemistry with his teammates to compete effectively. Despite the offensive contributions from other lines, there is room for improvement in generating consistent scoring opportunities.
Assistant coach Gardiner MacDougall highlighted the importance of Misa gaining more experience on the ice, especially after limited game time with the Sharks’ AHL affiliate before joining the national team. MacDougall emphasized the need for Misa to increase his speed, puck possession, and shooting accuracy to elevate his game.
Reflecting on his performance, Misa acknowledged the team’s tendency to be overly elaborate in their plays and stressed the importance of simplifying their approach, particularly in shooting more frequently. The coaching staff emphasized the need for Canada to be more proactive in creating scoring opportunities and exploiting opponent weaknesses.
Looking ahead, Canada is focused on their upcoming match against Denmark, aiming to continue their momentum in the tournament. Misa and the team are determined to maintain their focus and avoid complacency against their opponents. Coach MacDougall’s energy and leadership have made a positive impact on the team, fostering a cohesive and competitive environment as they pursue success in the championship.