Former Avalanche standout could be the Olympic game-changer Canada needs
Photo credit: Matthew Stockman / Mile High Sticking
Former Colorado Avalanche standout Nazem Kadri could prove to be the game-changing presence Canada needs to make a significant impact at next winter's Olympic Games in Italy.
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.
New report claims Nazem Kadri should be on the men's Canadian Olympic roster.
Nestor Quixtan from Mile High Sticking writes that Kadri recently spoke out about his disappointment after being left off Team Canada's roster ahead of the 2026 Olympics.
An article in The Athletic published on August 15 highlighted Kadri's reaction to the snub. 42 players are set to attend Team Canada's orientation camp later this month is Calgary.
Kadri's name was notably absent from the list of invitees.
The former Avalanche had the following to say about the situation.
«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
Just because Kadri was passed over this time doesn't mean his Olympic hopes are gone. He knows he still has a shot but is fully aware that earning a spot will require plenty of hard work.
«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 will face tough competition, but there's always room for skilled players to earn a spot. That's why fans shouldn't count him out just yet.
"In particular, MacKinnon's connection to Kadri could be something Team Canada management considers when making their final roster decisions." -Quixtan
It's easy to imagine a Canadian lineup with Nathan MacKinnon at center and Kadri on one of his wings, creating a potentially dynamic combination.
Kadri is one of the rare players who blends skill with toughness, a quality Canada will certainly need, especially when facing off against Team USA.
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