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“You can have a plan but if guys are playing great, or not so great, it changes the plan. I think Jacob learned a lot from Ryan last year in preparing for games and that’s why he took a big step in his progression.

“And that Russian game (World Cup) was huge for him. It’s really did something for his confidence and he wants to push for the No. 1 job.”

Markstrom is healthy and in a better place than a year ago. He suffered a hamstring injury in practice just prior to the regular season, but served notice in his first start with a 42-save effort in a Nov. 10 win at Columbus. Markstrom would also fill in admirable when Miller missed eight games when dehydration led to cramping and a groin strain on Dec. 20.

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Markstrom lauded the World Cup practice environment with Sweden and working with Lundqvist. Instead of angst, it was all about the anticipation of facing sharp shooters and learning just by watching Lundqvist go about his craft.

“I played half a (pre-tourney) game against Finland in Helsinki and felt really confident,” added Markstrom. “At first, I was a little nervous, but then I was super excited and I couldn’t wait to get out there. Lundqvist is really intense in practice. He goes really hard every day when he steps on the ice and it’s really good to see that. He has a style that’s not similar to me, but I never had a chance to sit down and talk to him before.

“It was fun and awesome with the best-on-best tournament and it was just a super feeling to remember if I ever get down.”