Fischer learning to simplify game

January 24, 2000

FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

Anyone who speaks to Jiri Fischer for a few moments understands why the Red Wings think so much of him. Fischer has size, skating ability and a booming slap shot. But he has an even better brain.

Fischer, a 19-year-old defenseman from the Czech Republic, rejoined the Wings last week after a two-week conditioning stint with the AHL's Cincinnati Mighty Ducks. He soon might return to his junior team in Hull, Quebec. But if that happens, don't worry. He'll be all right.

Humble and bright, Fischer wants to stay as long as he can in Detroit, but he knows he needs to develop. He spoke of his experience in Cincinnati with candor, sprinkling humor and seriousness in his comments with the savvy of a much older player.

Asked whether he tried any of the city's famous chili-on-spaghetti, Fischer wrinkled his nose, shook his head and smiled. Asked about the Ducks' six losses in his seven games, he shrugged and joked, "They lost two in a row before I got there, so I just kept doing what they were doing."

But when the subject turned to hockey, Fischer's eyes sharpened, and he analyzed his game objectively.

In his first few games, he tried too many fancy moves learned from watching NHL players.

"It just didn't work out," Fischer said. "I need a lot of years of practice before I can do tricks and stuff like they can do."

Later, he improved by simplifying his game.

"I was down there trying to get more confidence with the puck, which I did," Fischer said.

Most important, perhaps, Fischer gained an increased respect for the NHL by learning what life is like in the bushes.

"There's a lot of intensity in those games," Fischer said. "You can see that a lot of those guys really care. It's a different lifestyle. They're not making as much as they would in the NHL. That's why I think some of the guys fight for their spots even more, because they appreciate what they have. It was nice to see that. I definitely appreciate more what I have now."