LOS ANGELES — Montreal Canadiens defenceman P.K. Subban wasn’t surprised to be left off Team Canada’s preliminary roster for the upcoming 2016 World Cup of Hockey.
“The competition is so strong,” said Subban following the Canadiens’ 3-2 loss to the Los Angeles Kings on Thursday. “You can’t take anything away from the guys they’ve already named.”
But Subban figures he still has a good chance of making the team, which will be named in full June 1.
“When I spoke with (Team Canada general manager Doug Armstrong), he said I’ll have a chance if I just keep playing my game,” said Subban. “They want responsible players, players who they can trust, players who play in all situations, players who can play against the best and log big minutes.”
Subban has six goals and 44 assists in 65 games this season. He also leads the Canadiens in average time on ice.
Subban said on Wednesday morning that he didn’t see Montreal’s final regular season games as a chance to force his way into Canada’s roster.
On Thursday night, he was asked whether he’d accept an invitation to play in the world championship, which will be held in Russia from May 6-22.
“I’m always proud to play for my country,” said Subban. “If I’m healthy, and if we’re not playing in the playoffs, I’d gladly take the opportunity.”
Subban is a two-time world junior champion and a Sochi 2014 Olympic gold medallist.
