Lian Bichsel started the season in the American Hockey League, but at the end of November he was loaned to the Swedish club “Rogle”, together with Rodrigo Abolas, now fighting in the finals. In the second game of the series, Abols passed, but Bichsel scored the winning goal. He spent 24 minutes and 15 seconds on the field.
In December, Bihsel refused the invitation of the Swiss U20 national team, justifying his decision with the desire to strengthen himself in the “Rogle” team, since the change of coaches had just taken place. The bearded defender had refused the junior national team before.
The head coach of the Swiss national team, Patrick Fischer, has stated that Bichsel’s actions have consequences, so he will not participate in the World Championship.
After joining “Rogle”, Bichsel collected four points in 29 games of the regular season, and 12 playoff he has six points in fights.
New Jersey “Devils” striker Timo Maier, who underwent shoulder surgery, will not help Switzerland either. On the other hand, three other “Devils” hockey players have given their consent – goalkeeper Akira Šmids, defender Jonas Siegenthaler and forward Niko Hischiers. Chicago Blackhawks forward Filip Kurashev will also go to the World Championship.
In subgroup A, Switzerland will play against Canada, Finland, Czech Republic, Denmark, Norway, Austria and Great Britain.
Resources used:
https://www.blick.ch/sport/eishocke…
https://www.blick.ch/sport/eishocke…
Tags: door national team closed Swiss star Bichsel U20 refusal Hockey Sportacentrs .com
