With so many injuries to important NHL players during these Olympics, the question of participation looms even larger than just the hiatus of an industry.
"I don't begrudge the players. I wore my country's jersey and I know how much every guy wants to represent his country," he said. "But NHL players just shouldn't be over there. There's too much at stake."
The above quote from GM Garth Snow in Art Staple's latest Newsday article says a lot.
There IS too much at stake and no, the IOC and each country's national team does little to protect the contracts of NHL players.
Remember that Alex Ovechkin said he was playing in these Olympics whether the NHL was going or not. He would take the chance of being penalized by his employing club to play for his country. The desire to play for your national team is strong, but these men have contracts which should be honored and be their first priority.
The Olympics are wonderful. I have watched non-stop for the last 10 days, including sports I have really no interest in. Having NHL talent in the hockey games doesn't increase the sports visibility or viability.
There are no NHLers on the Women's teams and their games had great viewing numbers and were exciting and suspenseful. You just need passionate players. They don't have to be big name players.
I have an idea as to how to let players go if they want, but not shutting down an industry. I will try to post my suggestion to Mr. Bettman and the NHLPA by tomorrow. I just have to get a few facts squared away first.