Quote:
Originally Posted by Macman
Canadian fans and media don't generally throw their players under the bus when they lose. There might be other reasons for RNH not going, but I doubt that being blamed would even cross his mind. I remember Bragin marvelling last year at how TSN concentrated on the positives for Canada after the loss to Russia -- specifically how well they played in the third -- rather than the negatives.
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As I read my posts, they may emphasize the aspect of shrinking from high expectations more than is warranted. I hope he goes, because I think it would be fun to see. He would probably be the best Canadian player there, maybe the best player overall, but Canada will still have a number of players that they wouldn't ordinarily have if there was an NHL season. They would still have a great team even without him. One aspect that has been publicized lately is the interest generated in the AHL, particularly in Oklahoma City, with Nugent-Hopkins, Eberle, Hall and others are there. I think he would have to sacrifice at least a full month of his paycheck, in lieu of being given paid vacation, to participate in the tournament. Its a lot to ask of someone who is in a pro league to give up that much money. His love of country may transcend that, and I hope it does, but it is certainly a valid reason for not playing.