Hedman says not going to the Olympics hurts, but winning another Cup will make up for it

There's no question the decision to not go to the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing is a painful one for NHLers. For many, it could very well be their last chance to represent their country at the prestigious tournament. Tampa Bay Lightning defenceman Viktor Hedman said while he understands the reasoning, it's still not ideal.

" I understand that no one can control what is happening in the world right now, but it's sad," said Hedman. "I have been looking forward to the Olympics for a long time. This will hurt for a long time

Hedman, who had already been named to Sweden's Olympic roster before the plug was pulled, added he has a plan to make up for it.

"We'll go for another Stanley Cup. That will be a good make up for us," said Hedman.

If Tampa Bay were to win the Cup again this year, they would be the first NHL team to three-peat since the New York Islander in the early 1980s. That team actually won four in a row from 1980 to 1983.

It's not really a stretch to think the Lightning could complete the task this season. Tee team is currently first overall in the NHL with 44 points and shows no signs of slowing down.

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