In the NHL, emotional expression often defines star players. Ottawa Senators defenceman Jake Sanderson, however, approaches the game with a different mindset rooted in stoicism. This ancient Greek philosophy helps him manage emotions and accept circumstances beyond his control.
Jake Sanderson’s Stoic Approach to Hockey
Sanderson is known for his calm demeanor. He believes in the value of emotional regulation. “I would be scared at some points, but I remind myself it’s not going to last forever,” he explained. This mindset reflects how stoicism shapes his approach to high-pressure situations.
Performance Highlights
As of now, Sanderson has scored 20 points in 25 games. His speed and game intelligence position him among the best defensive defencemen in the NHL. Recently, he showcased this talent by scoring the only goal in a game against Dallas. This achievement also moved him past Zdeno Chara for fifth all-time in points for a Senators defenceman.
Leadership Style
Sanderson’s leadership is understated. He contrasts with team captain Brady Tkachuk, who is more vocal. “I think the vocal stuff is continuing to come,” Sanderson noted about his growing comfort with leadership. He admits he rarely yells, focusing instead on steady performance.
Learning from Experiences
Last season presented challenges for Sanderson, affecting his performance and causing him to miss initial selection for Team USA in the 4 Nations tournament. He recognized the pressure he felt in trying to secure a spot and considered it a valuable learning experience.
Daily Practices and Influences
Sanderson incorporates Ryan Holiday’s podcast, *The Daily Stoic*, into his routine for daily perspective. “I’ll just throw it on for like 10-15 minutes,” he said, acknowledging that even snippets of wisdom help him navigate the pressures of professional hockey.
Comparison to Legends
Sanderson draws inspiration from sports legends like Michael Jordan and Andre Agassi. He appreciates their journeys, particularly Agassi’s insights on the stresses of tennis. “I’m lucky. I have 25 brothers to go out on the ice with me,” he noted about the importance of team dynamics in hockey.
Navigating Ego and Confidence
Sanderson acknowledges the balance between ego and humility. He understands that confidence in one’s abilities is essential but recognizes the importance of accepting constructive criticism. This balance aids his performance and personal growth.
Current Standing and Future Potential
Sanderson’s current stats position him amongst the elite. He ranks as one of the top defencemen in scoring and is in discussions for the Norris Trophy. He is currently tenth in defenceman scoring and tied for fourth in power-play points among defencemen.
Differentiators of Sanderson’s Game
He displays a unique combination of elite defensive skills and offensive capabilities reminiscent of players like Jaccob Slavin and Scott Niedermayer. This versatility and consistency make it challenging to identify a better defenceman in the Eastern Conference.
Looking ahead, Sanderson possesses all the tools required to be a Norris Trophy contender for years. While he might not openly discuss personal accolades, his performance speaks volumes at the beginning of the season, marking him as a player to watch for fans and analysts alike.
As coach Travis Green puts it, “We’re lucky to have him,” reflecting the excitement surrounding Sanderson’s development in the NHL.
