As soon as World Cup of Hockey organizers announced their unique roster selection process—16 players by March 2, seven more by June 1—the stage was set for controversy.
It was inevitable, after all, that some very deserving players would be left off the initial lists, especially in Canada, the U.S., Sweden and Russia. And when those rosters were released on Wednesday, there were more than a few obvious snubs.
That’s not entirely a bad thing. It keeps the hot stove burning and ensures that the tournament will remain front-of-mind as players compete for those final spots down the home stretch and into the playoffs.