Coach's Perspective
Coach Pete DeBoer understands the importance of taking things one step at a time. He praised Bichsel for playing well despite being a young player in a new situation. "When you're a young guy and come in like this, you don't have to score every night. He has, but making an impression and getting the coach's trust is crucial," DeBoer said. DeBoer has seen this countless times and emphasized following the process. "It's a week-to-week question with a young guy. Can he keep his confidence and play well? Some struggle, while others adapt. I don't know the answer," he added.Bichsel has endured a lot of shuffling in his early career. He played mostly in Sweden before coming over last season and playing 16 AHL games. He then returned to Sweden and came back for the 2024 AHL postseason. Through training camps, the Traverse City Prospects Tournament, and NHL preseason games, he's gained experience. The coaches are now more familiar with him.
"He was knocking on the door in training camp, went down to Austin, and handled it well. He's been waiting for an opportunity, and now it's here," DeBoer said.
Teammates and Challenges
Both Thomas Harley and Nils Lundkvist are dealing with flu and could return for Wednesday's game. Veteran Brendan Smith might be scratched to keep Bichsel in the lineup, providing more opportunities. Bichsel is enjoying the challenges. "It's not an easy jump up here getting adjusted to the league, but I think I'm doing a good job keeping it simple and helping the team," he said.The veterans are also helping him. In the joyous dressing room after a 3-1 win over Washington on Monday, he said, "The guys give me a good time. It was a big win for the guys, so some laughs are allowed."
Bichsel is 6-7 and 231 pounds and has already shown his physical presence with big hits and confidence. However, he has also made mistakes and missed defensive coverages, which is normal for a rookie. "His game has been really solid, and he's learning from his mistakes. That's the key with young guys," DeBoer said.
Bichsel is well aware of the stakes every time he's on the ice. "I'm fighting for a job here. I'm doing all I can to make their decision hard," he said when asked about his future in the NHL.
