What Team Canada Player Is Going To Have A Break-Out Olympics?
In 2010 it was the coming out party for Chicago Blackhawks forward Jonathan Toews, who was name the tournament’s MVP. All he did was go on to lead the Hawks to a Stanley Cup that spring and then for good measure another one in 2013.
Feb 3, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center Jonathan Toews (19) moves the puck against the Los Angeles Kings during the third period at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
So, if Team Canada is going to win the Gold Medal again, there is a possibility that they will get a breakout performance in the process.
Here are 4 players who I think could be that breakout performer
1. Matt Duchene
Feb 6, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Matt Duchene (9) against the Philadelphia Flyers during the third period at Wells Fargo Center. The Flyers defeated the Avalanche, 3-1. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
The Colorado Avalanche forward plays in a market that doesn’t get a lot of exposure in North America. This could be his greatest exposure, and he is a player who could really thrive with the extra space on the big ice. Fans might be surprised at his ability with the puck, and even more without it.
2. Jamie Benn
Jan 30, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Stars left wing Jamie Benn (14) watches his team take on the New Jersey Devils during the third period at the American Airlines Center. Benn scores a goal in the second. The Devils defeated the Stars 3-2 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
The same thing about Benn in terms of lack of exposure in the National spotlight. Benn is an emerging power forward and could step in to the spotlight in a big way, especially when the going gets rough. He will be one of the guys counted on to add some grit to the lineup, but he can also be a finisher.
3. Chris Kunitz
Jan 11, 2014; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Pittsburgh Penguins left wing Chris Kunitz (14) on ice against the Calgary Flames at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-USA TODAY Sports
Sidney Crosby‘s shadow is a hard thing to emerge from, and there will always be the segment of the population who think Kunitz is only there because he rides shotgun with Sid so well. Kunitz has shown the ability to hold his own with star players, and is the type of player who might not be able to hoist a team on his shoulders, but can play with anyone and still succeed. His play is underrated and if any line juggling occurs he might get the opportunity to prove he isn’t just Crosby’s “little buddy”.
Jan 9, 2014; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; St. Louis Blues defenseman Alex Pietrangelo (27) skates with the puck against the Calgary Flames during the first period at Scotiabank Saddledome. St. Louis Blues won 5-0. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports
This could be the coming out party for the big defenseman and St. Louis Blues star. His blend of offensive prowess and stalwart defensive ability gives Mike Babcock a plethera of options. He could emerge as one of the go-to guys on the blue line before this tournament is over.