Ottawa Senators: Which Sens Could Make Olympic Rosters

For months it has looked as if the NHL would not participate in the Olympics. However, now there are rumours that there’s still a chance for NHL participation. How would this affect the Ottawa Senators?

There have been many signs over the past few months to indicate that there is no chance for the NHL to compete in the 2018 Olympics. From the all-star game and league schedule being released, to the NHL saying they will not be going. The most convincing argument for the NHL not going is not that the schedule has been determined already, but the all-star game has been scheduled. The NHL does not hold an all-star game in Olympic years. However, now there are rumours that there is an alternate schedule ready should the NHL end up participating in the Olympics.

Erik Karlsson

In 2014 the Ottawa Senators had just two representatives in Sochi. Erik Karlsson played for Sweden and Milan Michalek played for the Czech Republic. In 2018 should the NHL participate it could be another story of limited participation for the Sens. Karlsson would be a lock for the Swedish roster but that’s the only lock for a Senators player.

Mark Stone

One under the radar candidate would be Mark Stone for Team Canada. An offensive threat, he’s able to put up 60 points a season but it’s his defensive play that makes him appealing. He has been the league leader in takeaways for a few years now. Since Canada always looks for their players to be strong two-way players, Stone could make the team. Stone has been on some of the projected rosters for Canada and could be a player that could sneak on.

Bobby Ryan

Bobby Ryan is the final player that the Ottawa Senators could have represent them in Korea. Famously, he was one of the most controversial players left off any roster in 2014. Brian Burke famously said he “lacked intensity” when he was left off of Team U.S.A. Unfortunately for Ryan he hasn’t improved his odds since then as his play has regressed in recent years. However, a standout playoff run could have brought him back onto the radar of U.S.A. Hockey. If he continues his strong play into next season he could be on the American roster.

Next: Ottawa Senators: The Reason for the Sens’ Attendance Woes

Final Thoughts

The Olympics may still be a long shot, but with news of an alternate NHL schedule there is still a chance. The Ottawa Senators could have up to three players represent them in the Olympics. Karlsson would be lock, Stone and Ryan have outside chances. Should the NHL participate in Korea I would definitely be in favour in all three of them participating.