It's a blow, but not a big blow, not as bad as the loss of Niedermayer, or even a Redden, Blake or Pronger would be. When he's on, there isn't a defenceman in the game like Jovo: big, strong, physical, a fluid skater, a great puck move and a heavy shooter. Problem is, he isn't always on. The Jovo brain cramps have become more commonplace. Still, he's always shown an ability to calm down and play a smart game for Canada (Last year's Worlds, when he played for the first time in eight months, being the exception).
McCabe will take his place on the 23-man roster. Dion Phaneuf will move into the taxi squad, although he isn't my pick. Dan Boyle, a winner, a skilled puckmover and our No. 2 defenceman at last year's worlds (after Redden, who was named top defenceman) should be on the taxi squad. Scott Hannan, a defensive and physical force who owned St. Louis and Colorado in the 2004 playoffs, would be my next choice, and then Phaneuf, who is only 20 and will have other tournaments to dominate.
Based on how Jay Bouwmeester has played since the 2004 World Cup, he has no business even getting consideration for a spot.