Page 28 of Before the Fire

Your thoughts are very organized. Boringly so.

Davis

What's everyone's pre-game routine?

Mueller

Skate, film, chicken and rice at exactly 2:30, nap from 3:15 to 4:45, get dressed left to right.

Novák

Left to right?

Mueller

Left skate first. Left shin pad. Left knee. Then right side. Always.

Novák

You are one missed sock away from a full breakdown.

Mueller

It's not superstition. It's structure.

Novák

It's absolutely superstition.

Davis

I listen to the same playlist. Nothing special. Just need it to feel normal.

Novák

I have no routine. I simply show up and dominate.

Davis

Sure you don't.

Novák

I don't.

Davis

So you won't be taping your stick at exactly the same angle you've been taping it all camp?

Novák

That's technique, not superstition.

Davis

Right.

Hájek