I had a chance to talk to Nathan Washington about his transition since coming to the Kodiaks and his relentless forecheck.

Q: I think it is safe to say you’ve impressed since coming to the Kodiaks picking up 16 points in 21 games. What has the transition been like for you since coming to the Kodiaks?

Washington: I think it’s been a good transition because the ideology of the coaches really accommodates my game. Plus being familiar with a couple of the players really helps off the ice as well.

Q: You’re a thorn in the side of the opposition when you go in on the forecheck, have you always been hard on the forecheck or is this a new addition to your game?

Washington: I have never been shy on the forecheck but I think in recent years I’ve really put an emphasis on it because at the higher levels a lot of opportunities are created from turnovers and the defensemen rarely turn it over on their own so it’s really important to pressure them into it.

Q: You are new to the rivalry with the Pilots, what has being involved with those games been like?

Washington: I think it’s a lot of fun, playing in that playoff like intensity is always beneficial to both teams and I think it makes for some great hockey.