Sometimes Olympic roster decision-makers overthink things and complicate the process. The phrase “galaxy brain” comes to mind here a lot. Team USA always does that, and is likely to do it again this year.
In the past, Canada has made some baffling roster decisions involving some of its youngest stars, including leaving Sidney Crosby and Steven Stamkos off the 2006 and 2010 teams.
There was a real discussion as to whether or not Canada would do it again this year with San Jose Sharks forward Macklin Celebrini and Chicago Blackhawks young star Connor Bedard.
There was an argument to be made for both of them to make the team.
At least one of them had to be there.
In the end, one of them is. It is Celebrini. He is also the right choice if you plan to take only one of them. Celebrini is not only one of the league’s top scorers, but he is also already one of the league’s best players, blending elite, game-changing offense, advanced defensive play for a 19-year-old, and a relentless work ethic and grind that will work at any level and against any level of competition.
He had to be here. He is. They got it right.