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."