Q&A with Jake Gardiner

Q How surprised were you when you heard Pronger had been traded?

A I had heard rumors before that, but when it came up on the screen I was pretty surprised. [Anaheim] gained players [Joffrey Lupul and Luca Sbisa] and picks. But it was a big surprise to me.

Q What were you looking forward to most about possibly playing with him?

A It would be pretty cool to play with a guy like that. He's got a big, tough guy with a tough shot, and I've heard he's one of the least-liked players [by opponents] but he'd do anything for a teammate, which is good.

Q What was your first college experience like?

A We were in Boston College [for the first game of the year], and that first shift, my heart was beating so fast. I can't even explain it. I was pretty nervous, but I wound up getting an assist on that first shift, so that was nice. It's a feeling you can't really replace -- a once-in-a-lifetime feeling.

Q So what was more nerve-wracking, that or waiting for your name to be called at last year's draft?

A They're pretty similar, but I'd probably say the draft just because it was a life-changing experience. I was there with my family, and when my name got called I just kind of had this feeling of relief, that I had done it. I accomplished my goal. But that being said, I still have a lot of work to do to actually get there.

Q How often do you talk with the Ducks?

A During the season, I was talking to them probably once a week. Now, it's more like once a month. I went out there last summer for their weeklong camp with all the draft picks.

Q Are you looking forward to possibly playing in a city where hockey isn't necessarily the top sport?

A For sure. I was really excited to be drafted by Anaheim. It's a great city; there's a lot of things to do outside of hockey. But that is my main focus. The warm weather doesn't bother me at all. I actually like it. Going from Wisconsin, where it's freezing cold weather, to Anaheim will be a nice change.

Q Do you have a timeline to get there?

A It's a wait-and-see approach. I'm not really sure. It's going to be when I'm ready and when Anaheim feels they're ready to bring me in.

Q What's your advice to the Minnesotans who just got drafted?

A I'd just tell them to relax. Don't worry about where you were picked -- it's not that big of a deal. Have fun with your situation, because it's a one-time experience and you'll never forget it.

BRIAN STENSAAS