McDavid and Makar highlight Olympic men’s hockey selection of Team Canada, return of 4 Nations Face-Off Defense Corps

“The reason for going with the eight was scouting and dialogue with the coaches. I think we have a high skill level. I think for Parayko and Sanheim it’s like going through a car wash, it’s hard to get to the net,” Team Canada general manager Doug Armstrong explained when asked about returning the same defensive group.

San Jose Sharks forward Macklin Celebrini joined the team as a 19-year-old. Celebrini is in excellent form and his speed, scoring punch and ability to win board battles secured his place on the roster. Washington Capitals forward Tom Wilson was added to the team after an excellent start to the year, with 19 goals and 37 points in 38 games, and will likely operate in a fourth-line role on the international stage.

Montreal Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki was added to the team. Suzuki may be the Selke Trophy favorite through the first half of the season, and Armstrong talked about his ability to handle the pressure of a hockey-crazed market, his ability to play the penalty kill and his overall versatility.

Chicago Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard and Dallas Stars forward Wyatt Johnston were among the most notable omissions. Bedard was in the midst of an excellent season prior to an injury that kept him out of Chicago’s lineup since December 12. Johnston has recorded 45 points in 39 games for the Dallas Stars this season and has put together an excellent body of work.

New York Islanders forward Bo Horvat made the team thanks to a 21-goal campaign, along with excellent work in the faceoff. Horvat could be used in defensive zone scenarios and will likely start on the fourth line.

Here’s the full roster:

Defenders: Drew Doughty, Thomas Harley, Cale Makar, Josh Morrissey, Colton Parayko, Travis Sanheim, Shea Theodore, Devon Toews

Goalkeepers: Jordan Binnington, Darcy Kuemper, Logan Thompson