Avalanche Cup hero sounds off after shocking Team Canada Olympic snub
Photo credit: Isaiah J. Downing / USA TODAY Sports
Colorado Avalanche Stanley Cup champion Nazem Kadri has broken his silence, voicing his frustration and disbelief after being left off Team Canada's Olympic roster in a decision that has shocked fans and analysts across the hockey world.
The Calgary Flames forward believes he deserves serious consideration for a spot on Canada's men's Olympic hockey team, expressing his disappointment after being left off the 42-player orientation roster earlier this August.
Nazem Kadri sounds off after latest Team Canada snub.
Kyle Cushman from The Score writes that the 2026 Games represent what will likely be Kadri's final chance to compete for Canada at the Olympics, having last worn the national jersey at the 2024 World Championship.
Here's what Kadri told The Athletic's Julian MacKenzie on Thursday...
"I feel like I deserve a chance. I think over the last few seasons, I've certainly proven that with my statistics and the winning pedigree. I think it speaks for itself." -Kadri
Last season, Kadri posted an impressive 35 goals and 67 points over a full 82-game slate, ranking tied for seventh among Canadians in goals and 19th in overall scoring.
"Honestly, man, it would be an absolute dream come true to somehow crack that team. I've been a long shot before. I'm looking forward to giving myself an opportunity, but I understand I'm going to have to play well." -Kadri
Kadri made his frustration clear after being left off the roster, responding to Hockey Canada's announcement on Instagram earlier this month.
Kadri didn't hold back when asked whether his blunt comment might hurt his chances with Team Canada, saying he wasn't worries about sugarcoating his feelings.
"Who cares? It could help, or hurt, I'm not quite sure. It's not as serious as most people thought it was. I just thought I'd create a little stir. Like I mentioned, I would absolutely love to be on that team. I think I should be in consideration." -Kadri
The final Olympic rosters will be set in early 2026 ahead of the tournament, which begins on February 11 in Milan-Cortina. This will mark the first time NHL players participate in the Games since 2014.
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