Is USA hockey's window smaller than we think ?

[Peiskos]

"Utter futility" is kind of a sensationalist way of putting it, but you have a point. We seem to have a bit of a culture/attitude problem with how we approach things. American players regularly blow off the world championships and mail it in if "forced" to play in a bronze medal game. I've heard some similar things here and there about Canadian players declining to participate in the world championships, but you'd more than likely know more about this than I do. Also, Canada has enough depth of talent to make up for the losses of players who don't want to go.

Perhaps its harsh but that's just the way I wanted to word is because for my expectations if Canada didn't win at the senior level since the 90's and its now 2025 I would be saying the same thing.

Also yes I would also agree and say that its also not just depth, I think a major part of international hockey that gets ignored is the mental side, sheer numbers for example doesn't automatically mean future domination is imminent. It's about mentality and culture, it's why I've respected the Finnish program for many years, and they have "Sisu" a mental state, an embodiment of determination, resilience, perseverance and a never give up attitude that has consistently allowed them to punch above their weight.

Canada has this too in sport, particularly with Hockey, it's called "The Canadian Way."

 

[Rabid Ranger]

The U.S. has had its fair share of disappointments at the Men's senior level since 1980. The World Cup of Hockey in 1996 is a high point and we were close at the Olympics in 2002 and 2010. Just can't seem to get by Canada in the "big game" which makes sense as they remain the top hockey playing country. It's similar to me to the U.S. in basketball. They can lose, but it takes a very strong opponent on their best day to do so.

The annual world championships also bring a lot of disappointment. The best we can seem to get is a bronze. We usually choke in the quarters or semis, and that is often with very strong rosters. I just don't think the average American player cares that much about the event. It has a lot more meaning to European countries, where even so-called "minnows" (like Latvia) can rise to the occasion.

I'll be interested to see who the U.S. can attract for the worlds this year, especially with the Olympics next year. Bubble guys like Tage Thompson need to show up and perform well.