Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images
Action has finally resumed in Italy, as the Canadian team hit the ice for its very first official practice in Milan.
Journalists on site, including Marc Antoine Godin, reported that the players began their preparations ahead of the tournament’s opening game.
This first look confirmed an important visual detail for Canadiens fans: Nick Suzuki will not be wearing his usual number 14 during this competition.
It’s now confirmed — the Canadiens captain has chosen number 10 to represent his country.
Let’s be honest, it will feel strange to see Suzuki skating with a different number on his back, as he’s so closely associated with number 14 in Montreal.
However, the reason for this change is quite simple and respects the veterans’ hierarchy.
Journalist J-F Chaumont notes that it’s Bo Horvat who is wearing number 14 for the Canadian squad.
“Bo Horvat is wearing number 14 for Canada. Nick Suzuki has chosen number 10.”
– J-F Chaumont
Horvat, being older and having more seniority in the league, had priority when it came to jersey selection.
Let’s tell it like it is: wearing number 10 — a legendary number with the Montreal Canadiens (Guy Lafleur’s number) — is an excellent backup choice for Suzuki.
It’s a scorer’s and leader’s number that should suit him perfectly as he looks to help Canada win gold.
So we’ll have to adjust our eyes: in Milan, Suzuki will be wearing number 10.
A first practice live from Italy for Nick Suzuki and Team Canada
The rumor had been circulating for some time, but it has now officially been confirmed.
As revealed earlier, Nick Suzuki find’s himself on a line with Nathan MacKinnon and Brad Marchand as Team Canada lines take shape.
We can’t wait for the tournament to officially get underway!
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics
POLL
16 HOURS AGO|388 ANSWERS
Nick Suzuki switches numbers as Team Canada practice reveals his jersey choice in Milan
Is number 10 a good replacement choice for Nick Suzuki?