This is why the NHL should always send players to the Olympics
Key Points:
- The United States won the Olympic gold medal in men's ice hockey for the first time since 1980, defeating Canada in an overtime thriller, marking a significant moment fueled by the return of NHL players to Olympic competition.
- For the first time since 2014, NHL players participated in the Olympics, enhancing the tournament's appeal despite risks such as injuries to key players like Canadian captain Sidney Crosby.
- International hockey competitions featuring NHL players have proven to draw massive viewership in the U.S., with Olympic gold medal games attracting far more viewers than Stanley Cup Finals.
- American fans show strong enthusiasm for hockey when it involves national teams and NHL stars, highlighting a preference for international competition over club-level play.
- While the NHL faces risks and limited immediate