The NHL Star of the Lions Opens Up About His Harsh Treatment at the Olympics: "It Sucked"
Finland's NHL player Oliver Kapanen expresses his frustration over being isolated during the Olympics after a teammate fell ill, despite not displaying any symptoms himself.
Oliver Kapanen, a 22-year-old NHL player representing Finland in the Olympics, shared his feelings about the difficult isolation experience he faced after his teammate Anton Lundell fell ill. Kapanen, who was supposed to join the team against Italy, was enforced into quarantine due to being a roommate of Lundell, which he initially struggled to accept. The isolation forced him into a harsh living condition with no television access, leading to a tedious day of watching hockey, Netflix, and YouTube on his tablet.
Despite his frustrations, Kapanen later understood the rationale behind the decision to keep him in isolation. He expressed gratitude for the decision taken by the team to prioritize the health of all members, acknowledging that had he developed symptoms later, it could have endangered the entire team. The long day isolated during the Olympic excitement was a tough pill to swallow, as Kapanen was eager to participate in the games and support his teammates.
Kapanen's experience highlights the stringent health protocols in place during the Olympics, especially given the ongoing concerns surrounding health safety amidst the pandemic. His candid expression of disappointment serves as a reminder of the emotional and psychological challenges athletes face in high-pressure environments, particularly during significant events like the Olympics where every game is crucial.