With the World Cup of Hockey expected to return in 2016, the possibility of NHLers competing at the PyeongChang 2018 Winter Olympics is in serious doubt.
However, Tampa Bay Lightning superstar Steven Stamkos wants nothing more than another chance to represent his country on the biggest sports stage there is.
“For me personally, I want another chance to play in the Olympics,” Stamkos told Tim and Sid on Sportsnet 590 The Fan Thursday. “Obviously if you talk to some guys that have gone over and won gold medals, maybe it’s a different answer, but for me obviously last year was a pretty tough pill to swallow.”
The 24-year-old was a lock to be on Team Canada at the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics, but he broke his leg in a game against the Boston Bruins last November and couldn’t fully heal in time to make the final roster.
The Markham, Ont., native was also considered for the Vancouver 2010 squad, despite only being an NHL sophomore at the time, but didn’t make the final cut.
“[Missing out in] 2010 was a little easier; I was young. This time I was excited to be a big part of [the 2014 team],” Stamkos explained. “It didn’t work out, so me personally I would love another chance to play, but we’ll see what happens in the near future.”
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The World Cup of Hockey last took place in 2004. The 2016 tournament would take place from Sept. 15 through Oct. 1, but nothing has been finalized.
The NHL, NHL Players’ Association and International Ice Hockey Federation are expected to meet in Toronto in October to work out an agreement.
Stamkos has represented Team Canada at a number of international tournaments, including once at the world junior hockey championships and three times at the world championships; he won a gold medal at the WJHC in 2008 and silver at the 2009 world championships.
The two-time Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy winner said he plans on suiting up for the Lightning’s pre-season game against the Dallas Stars Friday, though nothing is confirmed.
In 37 games last season, Stamkos scored 25 goals and 40 points.
