Option 2

Valieva wasn’t a hockey player before joining the SMJHL. Her "skills" involved using her strength to push the goalie around in Russian beer leagues and somehow managing to win games because she was the last one standing on the ice. Her role was simple: stay in front of the goalie and, if possible, break the legs of any defenseman brave enough to come near. Valieva was a waiver pick by St. Louis and then traded to Kelowna, so I think @artermis would be the first to be interviewed, with Jacques Hammer and him recounting how Valieva had no clue how to actually play hockey, but worked hard enough to become captain and even break some records by her third season.

Ekaterina had the same linemate for 11 seasons in the SHL and SMJHL, so @liebolda ’s Adam Liebold would have plenty of anecdotes to fill six episodes on his own. Liebold has been a rock for the last decade, and she wouldn’t have become the player she is without him. @hhh81, as Baltimore GM, would also need to be interviewed. He took a chance on drafting Valieva in a very stacked S68 draft class and played a crucial role in her progression, both on and off the ice. He’s one of, if not the main reason, why she loves this league and this team so much.

WC: 223 -

Thanks guys.