This is an exhibition and a tryout for some players for the real tournament, the Olympics.
Best on best international hockey has been neutered since 2014. The NHL understands it has value and fans crave it, thus they throw us a bone like this and previously like the stupid U23 team etc.
The NHL wants their hands in the International cookie jar, but has no concept on how to pull it off.
Give us an Olympics every 4 years with NHL players. Just enough time in between tournaments to build anticipation and create a special atmosphere. Any more than that at this point is too much.
Best on best international hockey has been neutered since 2014. The NHL understands it has value and fans crave it, thus they throw us a bone like this and previously like the stupid U23 team etc.
The NHL wants their hands in the International cookie jar, but has no concept on how to pull it off.
Give us an Olympics every 4 years with NHL players. Just enough time in between tournaments to build anticipation and create a special atmosphere. Any more than that at this point is too much.