As the NHL took a pause for the Olympic Games, New York Islanders defenseman Scott Mayfield experienced something uncommon—a chance to relax and enjoy hockey without the usual pressures. From a secluded cabin in the Poconos, Mayfield set aside his normal routines of game preparation and video review, instead choosing to spend time with family and indulge in Olympic broadcasts.
The Change of Scenery: From Game Preparation to Quiet Reflection
Mayfield described his downtime in the woods as a quiet retreat, saying,
“Yeah, a lot of TV time — reading, hanging out. Not a lot to do in the middle of the woods,”
with a smile. During this break, he enjoyed events including the Super Bowl and various Olympic competitions.
“So it was good — some good sporting events. I love the Olympics. I love watching it. So it was a nice break.”
The Personal Connection to Olympic Hockey Action
What made this Olympic break especially meaningful for Mayfield were the Islanders teammates competing internationally, which turned watching the games into a more personal experience. He shared,
“It’s exciting, seeing the world’s best players — there’s some special talent there. The games are fast, the games are good, and it’s been fun to watch them.”
Balancing National Pride with Teammate Loyalty
National allegiance played a significant role during the games. Mayfield admitted,
“Obviously Team USA — as much as I love Bo and he’s my teammate — you want to see your country do well.”
He noted the interesting dynamic of seeing teammates face off on rival countries, stating,
“It was fun watching him and Pali play against each other.”
Inside the Islanders’ Locker Room: Friendship Amid Rivalry
The bond between Islanders players is complex, blending competition with camaraderie. Mayfield acknowledged the playful banter during the Olympics:
“There’s a little bit [of chirping], but the personal connections — you have friends on teams and everyone kind of knows each other. You’re kind of rooting for them, too.”
Appreciating the Game Without Analysis
For Mayfield, the Olympic intermission provided relief from the usual intense focus. Without the need for scouting or breaking down systems, he simply enjoyed the hockey.
“For me, it’s just enjoying hockey. I’m not really breaking down the game like I do during our games. It’s just good hockey out there.”
When the Islanders regrouped after the break, the Olympic experiences stayed fresh in their conversations and mindset.
