In the midst of intense moments on the ice, Halifax Mooseheads’ forward Paul Sintschnig finds unwavering support from his teammate Nico Uschan.
The young players from Austria have been acquainted for approximately six years and have shared the ice on numerous teams during that period.
Sintschnig, aged 17, is a highly regarded forward who was chosen as the second overall pick in this year’s CHL Import Draft, while Uschan, a 19-year-old defenseman, was selected 81st.
Expressing his gratitude, Sintschnig mentioned, “On the ice sometimes when I get in a scrum, [Nico] will protect me, so it’s like a big brother for me.”
Uschan’s support extends beyond the rink, where he provides emotional backing to Sintschnig in various situations.
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Uschan mentioned, “I try to push him, try to give him some confidence when he has a bad shift and stuff like that. I’m here for him.”
The expectations that come with being the second-overall pick in the import draft are significant. Sintschnig has contributed well to the team, currently tied for fifth in team scoring with six points in nine games.
Sintschnig celebrates his first career goal with the Mooseheads during a Sept. 19, 2026, home game against the Moncton Wildcats. (Trevor MacMillan/Halifax Mooseheads)
Although junior hockey in Canada is a stepping stone towards his NHL ambition, Sintschnig emphasized that he is trying not to dwell too much on it.
Concerning Sintschnig’s draft year, Uschan expressed his commitment to supporting Sintschnig through the pressures that come with it.
Uschan advised, “It’s for sure a lot of pressure for him, but you have to, like, cut it out of your head.”
