TOUGH TO LEAVE OFF
While Team USA had 3 or 4 guys that were the main focus of attention for not being named to their roster, (Bobby Ryan, Kyle Okposo, Keith Yandle, Dustin Byfuglien), there will be a dozen names left off Team Canada that will cause controversy. These names (just at forward) include (and I know I am even leaving names off this list):
Sep 24, 2013; Denver, CO, USA;Dallas Stars left wing
Jamie Benn(14) is congratulated for his second period goal by center
Tyler Seguin(91) against the Colorado Avalanche at Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Martin St. Louis – Last year’s scoring leader and plays for Canada GM Steve Yzerman
Joe Thornton – Veteran presence who played a shutdown role in Vancouver
Rick Nash – Inhury plagued season, but dominates when he plays for Canada
Jamie Benn – rapid riser, tough to keep off
Tyler Seguin – rejuvinated in Dallas, but didn’t play well on wing in Boston, not a centre on this team
Matt Duchene – up and down season just off the bubble
Eric Staal – veteran has lost his elite spot
James Neal – injuries have hurt him this season, sniper who just doesn’t make it
Andrew Ladd – Gritty natural winger could be a great 4th liner for this team