Canada before Canucks

So as I get ready to take in Canada vs. Switzerland at GM… err.. Canada Hockey Place later today, I’m fortunately not posed with a problem of who to cheer for. I’m a big fan of Canada – so much so that I’ve pledged to wear a red or Canadian themed shirt (my white Canada Hockey jersey for instance) throughout the Winter Olympics. So what is that problem I speak of?

You see, I’m also a diehard Canucks fan. So it’s awesome to see the following players represent six different nations:

• Roberto Luongo (Canada)
• Daniel Sedin (Sweden)
• Henrik Sedin (Sweden)
• Ryan Kesler (U.S.)
• Sami Salo (Finland)
• Pavol Demitra (Slovakia)
• Christian Ehrhoff (Germany)

But when it comes to choosing local team over the national team, how do I not go with those who have maple syrup running through their veins?

It’s great that Demo has finally found his game on the national stage, but I find myself wanting him to choke. I love the Sedins, but I hope they both get the flu and have to sit out for a couple of weeks. Kesler may be a God among men when playing at home, but here’s to hope that by wearing the US jersey means he plays like he’s been playing on the road this season.

Is this sacrilegious for a diehard Canucks fan? Maybe, but I don’t wish them any harm and hope all seven come back strong for a run to the post-season. I’m just hoping that one of them (and lets be clear, it’s the guy with the maple leaf on his chest) comes back with a gold medal, while the others simply come back with a gold medal experience.

So as I watch Canada play tonight, I’m thankful for one thing – that the Canucks didn’t sign a Swiss player this season.

*****

[Editor’s note: For the duration of the Games, I think it’s totally okay to call the Sedins second-liners again. – J.J.]