Team Canada’s Olympic lineup just became tougher and more intimidating. Forwards Brad Marchand, Sam Bennett, and Tom Wilson have combined for over $3 million in fines and lost pay due to their suspensions in the NHL during their careers.
Now, picture all of them on the same line wearing the maple leaf symbol.
This week, that idea became more likely when Bennett joined the team as a replacement for Anthony Cirelli, who is injured. This gives Bennett a chance to play in the Olympics after he was unexpectedly left off the first roster announcement on December 31.
Bennett has some impressive achievements. The star from the Florida Panthers won the Conn Smythe Trophy, which means he was the best player in the playoffs, helping his team win the Stanley Cup for the second year in a row while showing off his toughness.
If you pair him with Marchand and Wilson, Canada could create a line meant not just to win on the ice but also to shake up their opponents.
Marchand offers experience and is a constant annoyance, Wilson brings serious strength, and Bennett provides aggressive forechecking and tenacity. Together, they make a trio that will make it hard for anyone they play against.
At the same time, Canada gave an update on Lightning center Brayden Point, who is out with a lower-body injury and has been replaced by Seth Jarvis. NHL players will travel to Milan on Saturday, with the men’s tournament starting on February 11. If Canada combines skill with a tough presence, their opponents will have to be on high alert.
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