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The Embarrassing Reason Behind Nick Suzuki's Team Canada Snub Revealed
Photo credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images
The non-selection of Nick Suzuki for the Four Nations Showdown has disappointed many, including the main interested party, the captain of the Montreal Canadiens.
But, could it be that the captain himself played with fire in this matter? As we pointed out in a recent column, Suzuki openly admitted his disappointment and even called out executives who snubbed him and Caufield.
«I play against the best players in the world every night, so I think I'm showing what I can do. I think I'm capable of playing!»
- Nick Suzuki
- Nick Suzuki
He even added to the subject, as shown in Alexandre Gascon's article from Radio-Canada.
«It still hurts not to be part of this team, especially since the tournament is being held in Montreal, but it's not easy to be chosen for this team. There are probably a lot of guys disappointed right now. I'm not thinking too much about it and I'm focusing on our team.»
- Nick Suzuki
- Nick Suzuki
Is Nick Suzuki the only one to blame?
The fact that Canada preferred Seth Jarvis over Nick Suzuki could spark reactions. But the captain of the Montreal Canadiens must also take a look in the mirror.
First, he had a very slow start to the season. We often said in October and November that he wasn't playing like himself.
He even admitted to Jean-François Chaumont of NHL.com that he was searching for himself.
His role as captain, while the team was going through tough times, was a heavy burden.
«I think yes, it gets harder. I'm trying to manage. It's hard to focus on your game. I have a big voice in the locker room. I try to say and do the right things, but I don't feel like I'm playing as well as usual. When things are going well, it's easier to take on this role. I just try to stay positive and support the guys. We're one big family.»
- Nick Suzuki
- Nick Suzuki
There's also one fact that may seem insignificant at first glance but could very well have played a role in Hockey Canada's decision.
Did Nick Suzuki's refusal last spring hurt his case?
Last spring, following the Canadiens' season, Suzuki humbly declined the invitation to join Team Canada for the World Hockey Championship.
Although many say this doesn't matter, it could very well play a role for those on the bubble of making the team. Having a player who genuinely wants to represent Canada is definitely a plus.
However, nothing is decided yet for the captain
Let's be honest, Suzuki has been playing some excellent hockey lately. Especially since he found out he wouldn't be on Team Canada, and since Patrick Laine's return.
According to hockey insider Chris Johnston, Nick Suzuki still has a chance to participate in the competition.
Along with Robert Thomas, Wyatt Johnston, and John Tavares, they will all be on call in case of injury.
The Canadiens' number 14 will have to continue playing well to prove to Team Canada's management that he truly deserves a spot on the roster.
However, we must admit that there's still work to be done for him. Also, according to Darren Dreger on TSN 690, team Canada executives are upset Suzuki rejected their offer to play for the National team at the 2024 World Championship:
The Canadian team called more than a dozen players to inform them that they were not selected, and Nick Suzuki was not among them. They're upset he didn't participate in the World Championship.»
They didn't even call Suzuki! Ouch.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 6 | 1323 ANSWERS The Embarrassing Reason Behind Nick Suzuki's Team Canada Snub Revealed Do you think Nick Suzuki deserved his spot on Team Canada? | ||
| Yes | 1052 | 79.5 % |
| No | 271 | 20.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
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