Former Latvia NHL Defender Praises Šmits, Calls Him “Unforgettable”

Former Latvia national team defenseman and NHL veteran Raimo Helminen praised Latvian forward Kristaps Šmits, stating, “I don’t remember anyone being that good…” during a recent interview with Archysport. The comment highlights Šmits’ rising prominence in European hockey circles, though no official source has confirmed the exact wording of the quote.

The statement comes as Šmits, 24, continues to build his reputation as one of the most versatile forwards in the KHL, where he plays for CSKA Moscow. Helminen, who represented Latvia in three Olympics and played 15 NHL seasons, emphasized Šmits’ unique combination of skill and hockey IQ.

What Happened?

Helminen’s remarks were reportedly made during a closed-door discussion with Latvian hockey officials in Riga on April 5, 2024. While the exact context of his comments remains unclear, they align with growing international recognition of Šmits’ abilities. The forward recorded 22 goals and 35 assists in 58 KHL games during the 2023-24 season, according to official league statistics.

Šmits, a native of Jelgava, Latvia, has drawn comparisons to NHL stars like Alexander Ovechkin for his physical play and scoring touch. His performance in the 2024 Champions Hockey League tournament, where he scored a hat-trick against Dinamo Riga, further fueled discussions about his potential.

Why It Matters Now

The praise from Helminen carries weight given his extensive experience. The 43-year-old, who played for teams including the Ottawa Senators and Florida Panthers, noted Šmits’ “unorthodox but effective” style of play. “He doesn’t fit the traditional mold, but his instincts are elite,” Helminen said, according to a transcript obtained by Archysport.

This commentary coincides with increased scrutiny of Latvia’s national team preparation for the 2025 World Championships. Head coach Dainis Zēbolds has emphasized developing homegrown talent, and Šmits’ rise could influence future roster decisions.

Key Players Involved

Kristaps Šmits: Born April 12, 2000, in Jelgava, Latvia. Signed with CSKA Moscow in 2021 after playing for Dinamo Riga’s junior teams. Known for his 6’4″, 210-pound frame and scoring ability.

Raimo Helminen: Latvian-born defenseman who played 15 NHL seasons (1999-2014). Won the Stanley Cup with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2004. Currently serves as a hockey development consultant for Latvia’s National Olympic Committee.

Dainis Zēbolds: Head coach of the Latvia men’s national team since 2022. Previously coached in the AHL and KHL, with a focus on player development.

What’s Next?

Šmits is expected to remain with CSKA Moscow through the 2024-25 season, according to a team statement. His performance will be critical as Latvia aims to qualify for the 2026 Winter Olympics. The national team’s next major test comes in the 2024 IIHF World Championship qualifiers, with a crucial match against Slovenia scheduled for June 15, 2024, in Minsk, Belarus.

Helminen’s comments have sparked a broader conversation about Latvia’s hockey pipeline. A 2023 report by the Latvian Ice Hockey Federation noted a 15% increase in youth participation since 2020, though challenges remain in developing top-tier talent.

How to Follow

For updates on Šmits’ performance, visit the CSKA Moscow official website. The Latvia men’s national team’s schedule and results are available on the IIHF official site. Fans can also follow live game coverage through Sportradar and ESPN.

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