I'm not really into hockey, but this topic caught my attention. SportsCenter had their hockey analyst on a few minutes ago discussing whether or not NHL players should play in the Olympics since they take place during the NHL season. Melrose argued no, on the point that it takes the NHL's stars out of the league for a month, and possibly longer due to potential injuries, and said amateurs should make up the US team. I can't make up my mind on the issue; Melrose's stance make sense, but I also don't know how I feel about us not giving ourselves the best chance against the rest of the world in the Olympics by holding our best players out. Thoughts?
OT: NHL players participating in the Olympics
- Thread starter thf24
- Start date
Other countries would lose their NHL players too
The Islander who is out for the year played for Finland? or someone else. Injuries are always a concern, whether it's basketball or hockey, but it's the during the season thing that really complicates it.
The Islander who is out for the year played for Finland? or someone else. Injuries are always a concern, whether it's basketball or hockey, but it's the during the season thing that really complicates it.
Professional leagues are only worried about one thing: $$$. And operating without their best players for a month every 4 years isn't making them any $, so it's not in the NHL's best interest (plus the potential for injury).
Now there are people like me who never watch the NHL, but who actually do watch Olympic hockey (same for World Cup/pro soccer). Bringing in fans of hockey in general and capitalizing on the excitement benefit the league, but I doubt that offsets the direct $ lost during the month with no fans. At least to the owners.
Now there are people like me who never watch the NHL, but who actually do watch Olympic hockey (same for World Cup/pro soccer). Bringing in fans of hockey in general and capitalizing on the excitement benefit the league, but I doubt that offsets the direct $ lost during the month with no fans. At least to the owners.
I like our countries best representing us. This coming from a NHL season ticket holder. 2 weeks every 4 years is worth it.