What it was like having to play against Pavel Datsyuk

On Monday night, the Hockey Hall of Fame Class of 2024 will be inducted alongside some of the greatest players in the game’s history.

One of those players wowed fans and players alike across 15 seasons with his dynamic skill and mesmerizing hands. Former Detroit Red Wings forward Pavel Datsyuk was considered a magician by many thanks to his ability to make plays that brought fans out of their seats, even if they didn’t lead to a goal.

From bursting on the scene with the “Hall of Fame” 2001-02 Stanley Cup champion Red Wings squad, to becoming one of the most elite players the game has ever seen, the Russian star left an impact on the game. Along with his gifted offensive talent, Datsyuk became one of the best two-way players in the game thanks to his awareness and quick stick. Prior to Patrice Bergergon’s dominance around the Selke Trophy, Datsyuk won the award three straight times.

On Monday’s edition of Daily Faceoff LIVE, former NHLer Colby Cohen tells Tyler Yaremchuk what it was like playing against Datsyuk.

Colby Cohen: Scary. I had the fortune…or probably the misfortune of playing him in a preseason atmosphere when I was in Colorado, but actually in one of the few regular season games I did play in the National Hockey League. I’ll never forget he had that stick that had all the holes in it. I just remember asking friendly advice to Adam Foote and kind of asking people about Datsyuk and the best advice I got about playing against him was, when him or [Henrik] Zetterberg get on the ice, do yourself a favor and get off as quick as you can.

The guy was just a force to be reckoned with on both sides of the puck. I think we can forget how good he was defensively…Could you imagine Pavel Datsyuk in today’s game, where you can’t defend? Imagine him playing through this air of speed and skill.

You can watch the full segment and entire episode here…