I am happy for our players who decided to go to the World Championships and keep on playing hockey. We all wish we were still playing in the NHL playoffs, but the World Championships is a top notch tournament and it is helping to keep the players competitive, in shape, and maintain a winning form attitude.

Brooks Laich played for Team Canada and has had a wonderful experience.

Ovechkin, Semin and Varlamov are all playing for Team Russia. They seem very focused on winning the championship and icing a very strong NHL player laden team. Alex Ovechkin is playing very well as is our goaltender. Alex Semin is also being quite productive.

Good for them. They could be on a golf course or at the beach, but they are playing their hearts out for their country. I am happy for them. I hope they enjoy the experience and accomplish their team goals now and then rest up and chill out before coming back to us focused and healthy.