I don't watch a lot of King's games, so I'm not sure. Still, he's got the size and build to fit the make-up of this team.
If the bolded statement is true, why does it matter that OEL and Paajarvi are missing?
Sure, Canada has depth, but the reality is when you're going with your 1B/2A team (assuming half our roster would not have made this team if our NHL players were available), losing your 1B players to injuries (with your 1A's in the NHL) is a significant impact.
I also agree that Sweden losing Landeskog is a *big* loss. Country Forest is their most dynamic offensive player. I just don't see why the person brought up players with NHL duties.
I never said it does matter. But if you can't ice the best team in the tournament without these players then perhaps it does matter. If you already have the best team in the tournament without the afromentioned players, I guess it's not a big deal. The only thing that matters is winning.
Lets look at it this way, Slovakia lose Gaborik/Chara, Canada lose Pronger/Nash - whom will be affected the least?
Point being; Canada probably has the best team regardless if they can't bring any of the players you mentioned. In that case, does it really matter if they can't bring them to the WJHC?
For Sweden, Pääjarvi and OEL would probably be the difference between a final and a bronze medal game.
Topic:
Neither hockeysverige.se, Expressen or Aftonbladet has confirmed that Country Forest is out of the tournament - I'm doubtful.