But by all means if you think one persons random made up guess sounds better than another that’s up to you.
I don't think their guesses are random. Since day one of the season, everyone has been saying how much better Tkachuk would be if he was stronger on his feet. This was a consistent critique of his all season long. He then proceeded to commit to three months of training with the best guy in the business at keeping players on their feet. I don't know how old you are, but I remember when Crosby came back from training camp with Gary Roberts, and he just turned into a complete beast.
The fact that Slovakia is relatively poor being a more likely explanation than wanting to improve as a hockey player, especially when you're considered the most important forward on your team... THAT is random. Is there any quotes from Tkachuk or any other NHLer saying that Slovakia is too poor to want to play an international tournament in? Athletes went to Greece, China, Russia for the Olympics. They went to Poland and Ukraine for the Euro Cup. I just don't see the connection.
EDIT - For example, my friends invited me to go to Vegas while I had exams. I declined in favour of studying. That doesn't mean I didn't want to go to Vegas, I just set my priorities as personal development over going away to have fun.