Canada’s All-Snubbed Team
While they coudn’t invite every eligible player to Team Canada’s Orientation Camp, the brass that is selecting the Canadian Olympic team snubbed a lot of players that could, and maybe should have been invited to camp.
GOALIE: Cam Ward
Mar 3, 2013; Sunrise, FL, USA; Carolina Hurricanes goalie Cam Ward (30) makes a save in the second period against the Florida Panthers at the BB
Taking Braden Holtby over Cam Ward is an interesting call, as Ward has a Stanley Cup and Conn Smythe Trophy on his mantle, and is one of the most consistent goalies in the league, which is what Canada is desperately in search of from their goaltending.
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.
FORWARD: Jamie Benn
Apr 19, 2013; St. Louis, MO, USA; Dallas Stars left wing Jamie Benn (14) jumps past St. Louis Blues defenseman Alex Pietrangelo (27) during the third period at the Scottrade Center. The Blues defeated the Stars 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Scott Rovak-USA TODAY Sports
The Dallas standout has 20 goals and 40 points in each of his full NHL seasons, and is versatile enough to play wing even though he is listed as a centre.
FORWARD: Evander Kane
Apr 25, 2013; Winnipeg, Manitoba, CAN; Winnipeg Jets forward Evander Kane (9) during the first period against the Montreal Canadiens at the MTS Center. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Fedyck-USA TODAY Sports
While some might question his attitude and character, Kane is a classic power forward who can use his size and speed in combination on the wing at any spot in the lineup.
FORWARD: Jason Spezza
May 24, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Ottawa Senators center Jason Spezza (19) on the ice against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the first period in game five of the second round of the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the CONSOL Energy Center. The Pittsburgh Penguins won 6-2 to close out the series. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
I outlined why I thought Spezza was snubbed shortly after the roster was announced. I still feel that way, and question why Spezza’s growth as a player in the last 6 years hasn’t been noticed outside of Ottawa.