I don't necessarily think that Wilson would be as awful as people sometimes claim.... but it's hard to know. He hasn't played internationally since the u18 level. If they have a Wilson itch that needs scratching, better at this NHL event than an event like the 2026 Olympics with the IIHF involved.
Several times I've wanted to see him at the IIHF world championship level to see how he would look and adapt in that sort of environment. In his favour is that variety is a good thing on a hockey team and there are not many players like Wilson around anymore, especially those who actually have some genuine ability. I have a perverse curiosity to see Wilson internationally... but more at that lower level.
This I agree with. I've long suspected that the management group would consider Wilson (or someone like him...of which there aren't many nowadays) for an event such as this. On NHL-sized ice, for a non-IIHF event...sure, go for it. Why not. Canada isn't exactly stacked with big, physical, truculent wingers like it used to be, and Wilson is pretty good at putting the puck in the back of the net.
Lets see if Wilson can keep up his hot start. Personally I'm more bullish on Wilson than on someone like Lowry. Wilson is a more unique player than is Lowry...he is used to playing alongside star players, and would be an asset in the bottom-6 to provide a physical dimension alongside a smaller stature player like Point (or Marchand, or Suzuki, or any number of depth wingers/centres we've been discussing).
I'm very bullish on Lafreniere to start the season. I think he's a really good bet to make the team. And with respect to Hyman, he's very close to fumbling what should have been a really good chance at a roster spot. I think he finds himself on the outside looking in at this point.
