It can be hard to read when John Tavares is truly miffed about something when he’s so measured and diplomatic speaking to the media.
But as a frequent flyer with Team Canada through the years, it was clear the 34-year-old wanted to be on the full 4 Nations Faceoff roster when it was revealed Wednesday.
Though not looking to be placed among the forwards strictly for sentimental reasons, there is merit in his 22 points in 24 games before Friday and nearly 59% success rate on draws.
“It’s disappointing, I’d have loved to be a part of it,” Tavares said after the morning skate. “Playing in best-on-best internationally and the Stanley Cup are the pinnacle of our sport. To have those opportunities is unique, so it’s obviously disappointing, but let’s get back focused on what we’re doing day to day here and how I can be at my best for the club.”
Tavares did say Hockey Canada contacted him last weekend out of respect to inform him he wasn’t selected and, to his knowledge, he’s not next man up as an injury replacement.
The Leafs have another 30 games before the tournament starts in mid-February and Tavares says it’s “naturally” in his makeup to remember the snub in coming weeks.
“I’m always (motivated) that way, but in general you want to push to be in events like that to play for Team Canada. There is the (2026) Olympics after that. It’s not really what you put your focus on, but you play at a high level, you show you can be part of a group that can help win and put yourself in that mix.
“Hopefully, those opportunities will still be there down the road.”
Of course, there’s Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon and Sidney Crosby ahead of him as slam dunks at centre. Also hoping to be considered was Leafs defenceman Morgan Rielly, another Canadian world championship veteran, though it’s hard to argue with the blue line choices ahead of him.
“It is what it is, they have a great team, we’ll all be cheering for them,” he said. “That (motivation for him the rest of this season) is the takeaway. You’re always (working) to get that opportunity again.”
Winger Mitch Marner was named to Canada’s roster this week, while Auston Matthews (United States) and William Nylander (Sweden) were previously picked. Defenceman Jani Hakanpaa will play for Finland if his knee troubles clear up.
Softening the news for Tavares and Rielly is the prospect of almost two full weeks of rest, while Tavares’ wife and three young children will be glad he’s home and Rielly and partner Tessa Virtue became first-time parents in July.
“One hundred per cent that’s accurate, to get to spend more time with my family,” Tavares said. “And with the season grind, we’ll use that time off to prepare for a long spring. We look to maximize that in different ways.”
Rielly added “there are always silver linings. The guys that are going, that’s just a huge honour and we’re really excited for them. But the other guys will get a chance to rest and come back prepared for a big push.”
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