With a year to go until the 2016 World Cup, let's take a look at which Canadiens players will most likely be participating representing their nations next Fall.
CANADA
Carey Price is an absolute lock to make the team and will be penciled in as the starting goalie for Team Canada. Ever since he backstopped Canada to gold at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, Price has been the best goaltender in the NHL, nay world. The reigning Hart, Vezina, Lindsay trophy winner will be counted on to lead Canada to gold in 2016.
P.K. Subban should be a given to make Team Canada as well. Unfortunately there will always be critics who will bemoan that he is not complete enough or a team player. These critics have not watched a game Subban has played the last few seasons. Subban made the Sochi Olympic team as an extra defenceman and was only dressed for one game. He had a smile on his face the whole time and was praised by his teammates and coaches for being a team guy. A Norris trophy winner in 2013 and nominated again in 2015, it would be a major slight if Subban is not named to the World Cup roster for Canada. Yes, Team Canada is fortunate to have such depth at defence, but Subban deserves a spot in the top 6 and to dress each and every game.
USA
Max Pacioretty was not expected to make Team USA for the Sochi Olympics and he parlayed an excellent start to the season into a place in their top 12. This time around, Pacioretty will be looked to be among their leaders and a contributor in the top 6. Pacioretty has been one of the most productive Left Wingers in the NHL over the last few years and I would not be surprised to see a letter 'A' on his jersey for the 2016 World Cup
Russia
As long as Andrei Markov is able to prove that he is still able to contribute this season, he will be on Team Russia for the World Cup. He has always answered the call for Russia and they will look for his veteran leadership once again. Alexei Emelin made the 2014 Olympic Russian team and if he is able to bounce back with a strong and consistent season, he should also make the top 6 for Russia. Emelin's style of play is more effective on North American rinks and this should be an advantage for him
Czech Republic
Tomas Plekanec will once again lead the Czech Republic. He is certain to make the team and perhaps could captain them again, like he did in Sochi. He will be counted on to do it all for the Czech's, play against other teams top lines, contribute on the PK and PP as well.
Sweden
Jacob de la Rose could surprise and make Team Sweden if he continues his progression during the 2015-2016 season. He has lots of experience playing for Sweden on the international level and even captained their junior team. His strong defensive play could make him a 12th or 13th forward if Sweden decides to bring some youth to garner extra experience.
Team Europe
Lars Eller should be counted on to make Team Europe, comprised of the best players from all the nations in Europe not already participating in the tournament. He would likely center the 3rd or 4th line and draw the defensive assignments against top teams.
Team North America aka Young Guns
This team is comprised of the best players aged 23 and under as of October 1st, 2016 from Canada and the United States. Alex Galchenyuk has an excellent chance of making the squad and his versatility at Wing and Center should be a factor at increasing his chances of making the team.
On the bubble is Nathan Beaulieu. If he has a strong year and able to put up 20-30 points in a full season, I think Beaulieu could make this team as a 6th or 7th defenseman. At 23 years old he would be one of the veterans and that might play into his favour.
Who do you have making the teams?
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