Aizsargs Hodass Eyes Latvia World Championship Spot | TVNET Sports

Latvian defenseman Bogdans Hodass is focused on earning a spot on the national team for the upcoming World Championship tournament. The competition is a key event for Latvia as they aim to make a strong showing on the international stage.

Hodass, a candidate for the Latvian men’s hockey team, emphasized his adaptability, stating he can play effectively alongside any linemate. This versatility could be a significant asset for the team as they prepare for the championship.

The 22-year-old Hodass began the season in the ECHL, North America’s third-tier league, before joining Mikeli “Jukurit” of the Finnish top league in February. He has already secured a contract to continue playing with Jukurit next season, an agreement reached back in November although he was still in the United States.

“I was playing without stress, knowing where I would be next season,” Hodass explained. “In February, my agent suddenly called and said there was an opportunity to go to Finland right away. The team had injuries and didn’t aim for to bring in new players, but it was good for me to get used to the playing style. Next season will be important for me and the team, as several teams will have to leave the league next year.”

Hodass acknowledged that a potential work stoppage in the ECHL could have expedited his move to Finland. “If that situation had occurred and I wasn’t able to play for a while, the Finnish club would have given me the opportunity to join them during the season as well,” he revealed.

In 12 games with Jukurit, Hodass recorded two assists and a -5 plus/minus rating. He also missed four games due to a disqualification stemming from a roughing penalty against an opponent.

“Everything happens so quickly in the game and I didn’t even feel what I did,” Hodass said, reflecting on the penalty. “It was a foolish penalty, and I need to learn from it because it hurts both me and the team.” He noted that the pace of play is faster in North America, with more puck movement forward, while the Finnish league emphasizes puck possession.