The SBP Archives - Your less than frequent dose of SBP!

You are looking at a picture of James Neal, a 21 year-old forward for the Dallas Stars who decided to suit up for Team Canada at the World Hockey Championships. He got high sticked in the eye which cut him up severely enough that he won't be playing in the tournament anymore. His career is not in jeopardy though and a full recovery is expected.

I respect the risk Neal took to play for Team Canada. He does not get paid to go overseas to participate. He is playing for pride and the privilege (repeat: privilege) of playing for his country. He may not make the 2010 Olympic team, but he's trying and that's all that matters.

I read the paper today and came up with a trivia question for you: What do Jarome Iginla, Rick Nash and Dan Boyle have in common? Answer: No-shows for Team Canada at the World Championships.

Hmmm...are they busy (You could ask Nash first, as his team only lasted four games)?

When you also consider the fact auditions are already taking place to make the Olympic team, I question the heart and logic of their decision not to play. Quite frankly, there is no excuse NOT to play. I'll give players such as Dion Phaneuf a pass since he is recovering from some broken ribs, but with very few guaranteed spots (Boyle I would have said yes a few months ago, but with the resurgence of Niedermayer and Pronger I'm not so sure anymore) are they trying to tell GM Steve Yzerman going to Vancouver isn't too important?

Why hasn't Sharks forward Joe Thornton agree to go yet? His team got bounced from the 1st round AGAIN, and his reputation as a playoff choker continues. Maybe he can try to silence his critics a little by having a strong World Championships. Many fans questions the Senators heart, but when asked, every Senator (Heatley, Spezza, Fisher and Phillips) said yes to Team Canada. Unless you're injured, you should follow suit.

I dare Iginla to give Neal a call and tell him it's not worth it.