Moritz Müller didn't want to toast his 1000th game in the German Ice Hockey League, despite his Kölner Haie's 8:2 win at the Iserlohn Roosters. The Haien can only theoretically be denied participation in the playoff qualifiers after the rout.

"There comes a time when we can toast it. We are in a very important phase of the year right now," said Müller after his career milestone at MagentaSport.

The Rhinelanders continue in Straubing on Sunday. In the remaining four main round games, it is all about achieving the best possible position for the playoff qualification. "Now we have to get into the playoffs and then we'll be a dangerous opponent," predicted the 36-year-old national team captain on an "unforgettable evening" for him.

More players before the thousand mark

Müller also expressly thanked the fans in Sauerland, with whom he never had the best relationship, after years ago he had disparagingly commented on the Roosters' transfer policy and the naturalization of Canadian players. "They did it very respectfully," said Müller in honor of the game, in which they continued to diligently distribute gifts. "It was definitely fun," said Müller with a grin.

The defender is only the ninth DEL player to have at least 1,000 games in the upper house. Curiously, two more players will be added in the coming days. On Sunday, Alexander Barta, captain of the Düsseldorfer EG, will face EHC Red Bull Munich. And next Tuesday, DEG striker Philip Gogulla can celebrate against the Schwenninger Wild Wings.