"We don't have a lot of time. This isn't about throwing darts at a dartboard. Who can keep up with who? Can we peek at a little chemistry in practice? 13 guys will dress. Someone has to sit. But as we saw in 4 Nations, everybody ended up playing. You have to mix in guys and see where they fit."
"The guys here are so competitive. Everyone is here for a reason. But you have to enjoy it, too. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, except for Sid and Drew. You have to enjoy the moment and have fun with it. There is a time and a place where you have to be really dialed in and focused, but there is definitely a place for playing around and having a good time."
"I am just enjoying the moment and each day, one day at a time, taking it all in. It has been fun. Practicing with guys of this calibre is a lot of fun as a calibre. It is just clean, precise plays. You get to make a lot of big saves in practice, if you can. It's a lot of fun."
Canada opens the Olympic men's hockey tournament against the Czech Republic at 10:40 a.m. EST on CBC/CBC Gem. Coaches and players emphasize rapid line evaluation and chemistry because of limited time and a short tournament, with only 13 dressing and rotation likely. Patience with combinations will be tested as the staff mixes players to see where they fit. Younger players like 19-year-old Macklin Celebrini are viewed as ready for big moments. Team leaders stress enjoying the experience amid intense competition. Goaltending remains uncertain while players relish practicing and competing at high calibre.
Read at Maple Leafs Hotstove
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