joshjull
Registered User
There is a false assumption among many posters that the NHL should participate in the olympics to grow the NHL. With many fans getting angry with various players and teams because certain players have chosen not to participate or can't due to injuries. I think its terrible that some players who are injured have to choose between country and employer. The NHL should drop Olympic participation after this year. Where is the proof the Olympic participation grows the NHL. The only place the North American market can grow is in the US. The NHL has been in 3 olympics now. Yet the TV ratings in the States in the last 10 years have plummeted and the NHL's growth is stagnant. You remember the lockout don't you. If your worried about growth in Europe. Most Europeans follow many of the international tournaments. They sure follow them more than most North Americans.
I think the World Cup would be a better venue to determine the best hockey nation in the world. It would be a great showcase for Europe. It would allow more participation by NHLers. You won't have the conflicts and most likely have less injuries pre tourny.
I think the World Cup would be a better venue to determine the best hockey nation in the world. It would be a great showcase for Europe. It would allow more participation by NHLers. You won't have the conflicts and most likely have less injuries pre tourny.