“It’s a dream,” stated the younger defenseman. “I get to symbolize america after which when individuals see your final identify, you’re clearly representing a bit of bit extra. It’s actually one thing particular to me and I by no means take that without any consideration. I really feel like I’m representing the fitting manner for my heritage.”

Although Gutierrez hasn’t met Auston Matthews, he stated he finds related sense of pleasure to the American Olympian with related roots. Matthews, whose mom is from Mexico, has helped develop and broaden hockey’s attain by way of his success. 

“I don’t know precisely how he views issues, however I’ve learn and heard how he’s talked about it earlier than. It means lots to me to see somebody with that kind of comparable background have that success [in the NHL] and I hope that others can discover one thing related from my story as properly.”

Gutierrez’s focus this season is centered on doing his greatest to enhance his draft inventory and assist Workforce USA on the 2027 IIHF Below-18 World Championship. He’s made it a objective to turn into an NHL first-round draft choose, whereas he’s additionally trying ahead to persevering with his hockey profession at Notre Dame subsequent fall. 

“There are some objectives you set and it helps you to recognize the journey. Like Notre Dame was a pure match for me. We really play them this season [with the NTDP], so I’m trying ahead to that. It’s sort of enjoyable to see the place this sport has taken me.”

Story from Pink Line Editorial, Inc.