Jakob Chychrun opens up on Wayne Gretzky's teammate and dad Jeff Chychrun's role in his career

By Anjum Rajonno

Modified Oct 26, 2024 05:48 GMT

Washington Capitals defenseman Jakob Chychrun comes from a hockey loving family. His father, Jeff Chychrun, played in the NHL for teams like the Pittsburgh Penguins and Philadelphia Flyers, and his grandfather, John, still laces up his skates at 82.

Growing up, Jakob was coached by Jeff, who taught him that hard work and skill-building were just as important as having fun. As Jakob got older, father and son traveled across Florida for games, then to Detroit for Jakob’s spot on the Little Caesars AAA team.

While speaking with the NHL on TNT’s Paul Bissonnette on Wednesday, Jakob Chychrun shared some special memories of his dad and his early exposure to NHL legends. Bissonnette asked Jakob about what it was like to meet hockey great Wayne Gretzky when Jeff, who played about eight NHL seasons, was with the Los Angeles Kings alongside Gretzky.

Jakob recalled those early days fondly, mentioning how lucky he felt to have his dad not only as a coach but as a guide in the sport he loved. He said:

“Yeah, it was pretty special. I was pretty lucky that my pops coached me growing up. I remember meeting Wayne when he was coaching the Coyotes and a bunch of times after that as well. It's just really cool. I was able to go down and meet a lot of my idols growing up after the Panthers games.”

Jakob also shared how Jeff has always been his role model, passing down life lessons both on and off the ice.

“Pops was my idol growing up and I was fortunate enough to have that voice at home. So many life lessons at the rink that translates off this as well. Love you Pops,” he added.

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Jakob Chychrun starting new chapter in Washington

The Washington Capitals acquired Jakob Chychrun as part of a roster revamp this summer. The team is looking to boost their playoff chances after narrowly securing a postseason spot last year.

Chychrun joined his new teammates in August for informal skates at the MedStar Capitals Iceplex, getting a head start with new additions like Dylan Strome and other returning players such as John Carlson and Matt Roy. While speaking of his new team in a media availability, Jakob said:

“It seems like [Washington] been very aggressive, and it’s great to see. I mean, obviously, they’re a group that wants to win, and I’m just so excited.” [H/T RMNB]

The 25-year-old defenseman, who scored an impressive 41 points last season, expressed excitement about the team’s ambition. In the final year of his six-year contract with an annual $4.6 million salary, Chychrun looks forward to contributing to the Capitals' push for another playoff run.