News broke last week that a new bargaining agreement will allow NHL players to participate in the 2022 Winter Olympics. Such is a massive win for fans wanting to see their favorite Dallas Stars on the men’s international ice. Today, we’re looking at some Stars most likely headed to tournament in Beijing this February.
Joe Pavelski, United States
Count us in on welcoming Dallas Stars center Joe Pavelski back to the American’s roster for his third Olympics trip. We envision Pavelski wearing the “C” on his sweater while anchoring the 2nd or 3rd line. Such scenario might not be popular among fans that will scowl at Pavelski’s age.
Pavelski’s Team USA selection could result in younger players being snubbed. However, we envision the American roster will be infused with plenty of youth to include Auston Matthews, Brady Tkachuk, and the Hughes brothers. A lineup loaded with young, United States talent will require chiseled vets like Pavelski to keep the squad grounded.
Pavelski was a member of the United States’ incredible, silver medal run at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics. In 2014, Pavelski put up 5 points in 6 games during Team USA’s underwhelming showing in Sochi.
The U.S. will put their deepest roster on the international ice in 2022. We think they’ll roster a younger team than Canada, a fact that would come with a lack in Olympic experience. Speaking of experience, it seems American Olympic hero T.J. Oshie will be on the roster bubble, if at all.