Canada’s All-Snubbed Team

DEFENSE:  Francois Beauchemin

May 12, 2013; Anaheim, CA, USA; Anaheim Ducks defenseman Francois Beauchemin (23) moves the puck against the Detroit Red Wings during the third period in game seven of the first round of the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

For a player who was in consideration for the Norris Trophy, and a 2nd team NHL all star last season, I certainly expected to see Beauchemin’s name on the invite list.  The veteran had a standout season with the Ducks and deserved to get an invitation.

DEFENSE: Kevin Bieksa

Mar 19, 2013; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks defenseman Kevin Bieksa (3) checks St. Louis Blues forward Andy McDonald (10) against the boards during the first period at Rogers Arena. The Vancouver Canucks won 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports

Although he is coming off a sub-par season, Bieksa is a solid all-around defenseman who can skate on the Olmpic sized ice.  I’m not sure he would have a real good shot at cracking the roster, but would be an upgrade over Karl Alzner, Travis Hamonic or Marc-Edouard Vlasic.