Friday continues the parade of significant players asking out of the 2016 World Cup of Hockey.
Sean Monahan is the latest to ask out, so Vincent Trocheck takes his spot on Team North America.
The Calgary Flames explain that Monahan is missing the tournament because of a “back strain,” which doesn’t sound too significant. Here’s the statement from GM Brad Treliving:
"Sean Monahan has sustained a back strain during his pre-season training & ... will not be able to participate in the upcoming World Cup."
— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) September 2, 2016
"We anticipate that this is not a long term issue and plan on having Sean healthy and ready for the start of our training camp."
— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) September 2, 2016
Monahan said it simply enough: “It’s disappointing, but at the same time my commitment is to the Flames.”
Considering what just happened with Frederik Andersen - a player who got hurt not long after signing a massive extension - the Flames probably appreciate Monahan’s commitment.
Again, people aren’t shy about throwing out some one-liners:
"It's always been my dream to represent... (checks phone)... my fellow young people and I'm sad I can't do that" https://t.co/4CP3VYkdtz
— Arthur Staple (@StapeAthletic) September 2, 2016
Along with Andersen and Monahan, Corey Perry is replacing Jeff Carter for Team Canada while it looks like David Krejci can’t go for the Czech Republic.