Hockey Canada names leadership group for 2022 Olympics

With just over a week until they open their 2022 Olympic tournament, Hockey Canada has named their leadership group.

2010 gold medallist and 2006 Stanley Cup champion Eric Staal will captain the team in Beijing, while former Montreal Canadiens forward David Desharnais and defenceman Maxim Noreau, who played for Canada at the 2018 Olympics, will wear the A's.

"The opportunity to represent Canada at the Olympics is very special, and being named captain is an honour and something I take a lot of pride in," Staal said. "David and Maxim are great leaders and players, and they are deserving of this recognition. Our entire team is excited for the opportunity to be a part of Team Canada, and we look forward to competing for a gold medal in Beijing."

Staal, 37, became an unrestricted free agent last summer after helping the Montreal Canadiens reach their first Stanley Cup Final since 1993. Before being named to Team Canada, Staal signed a PTO with the Iowa Wild in the American Hockey League and played four games, putting up five points.

Desharnais, 35, has never represented his country until now. He's currently playing in Switzerland's top division, National League, for Fribourg-Gotteron HC. In 38 games, he's recorded 32 points (13 G, 19 A).

Noreau, 34, played a key role in helping Canada win the bronze medal at the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, South Korea. The Montreal, Quebec native is currently in his fourth season with the ZSC Lions in Switzerland's National League. In 39 games, he's tallied 31 points (6 G, 25 A).

Canada will open their Olympic tournament on Thursday, February 10th against Germany at 8:10am ET. All games can be seen on CBC and TSN.

Meet the captains for 🇨🇦's Men's Olympic Team!

C: Eric Staal (@HNOHockey)
A: David Desharnais (@HockeyQuebec)
A: Maxim Noreau (@HockeyQuebec)#Beijing2022— Hockey Canada (@HockeyCanada) February 1, 2022

MUST READ

3 hours ago  |  By Jonathan Ouimet Sabres get concerning injury news as doctor confirms worst-case scenario

4 hours ago  |  By Jonathan Ouimet Connor McDavid turns heads with blunt statement

5 hours ago  |  By Jonathan Ouimet Fans furious after Draisaitl takes controversial hit from behind

6 hours ago  |  By Jonathan Ouimet Pastrnak fires back at Sabres fan as tensions rise in Buffalo

7 hours ago  |  By Jonathan Ouimet Fans furious after Jamie Benn avoids call on controversial high cross-check

8 hours ago  |  By Jonathan Ouimet Goalie interference controversy in Dallas has fans erupting

9 hours ago  |  By Jonathan Ouimet Connor McDavid’s Game 5 status gets important new update

9 hours ago  |  By Jonathan Ouimet Buffalo crowd reacts strongly after unbelievable scene unfolds

MORE STORIES