Calgary Flames

Nazem Kadri’s Odd Feeling of Being Left Off Team Canada

What’s it really like for a star player to miss Team Canada? Kadri shows the mix of pride, humor, and rooting from the sidelines.

by
Old Prof
December 31, 2025

Nazem Kadri’s reaction was classic Kadri. “Oh, I didn’t make it? Ah man, that’s too bad… no, I’m just kidding,” he deadpanned when asked about Team Canada’s Olympic roster. The grin almost comes through the mic. But under the joke, you can feel what it’s like to be on the edge of representing your country and not get there.

Kadri Believes Team Canada Is Hugely Talented

He went on to talk about the team with real admiration. “What a group. Such talented players… I’ll be cheering for every single one of those guys.” That’s the thing about Canadian hockey culture: making Team Canada isn’t just a personal accomplishment.

Making Team Canada is a national honour. Kadri didn’t get a spot this time, but he knows being in the conversation itself is huge. It’s a tricky spot for someone of his calibre. He could’ve just kicked back at home, hung out with family, and skipped the international grind. And yet, every Canadian player who has even sniffed the chance to wear the Maple Leaf knows what it represents.

Kadri Is Like Other Great Canadian Players Who Didn’t Make the Team

There’s something very human about it. Every player left off the Team Canada roster carries the same mixture of pride and regret. They’re proud to be close, but they regret missing the moment. Kadri’s humour softens it, but it doesn’t erase it.

Kadri knows selection to Team Canada is about more than skill. There’s fit, timing, and some luck. Still, when a player like Kadri reflects on it, it’s impossible to miss the honour in the process itself, even from the outside looking in.

Nazem Kadri comments on the Flames playoff hopes: NHL Trade Talk — Kadri didn’t make Team Canada, but he’s still rooting hard from the outside.

Such Is the Life of Great (But Not Great Enough) Canadian Players

In the end, Kadri’s reaction gives a glimpse into life as a top hockey player. One day you’re chasing gold, the next you’re cheering the team on from your couch. For players at this level, every near-miss is part of being a Canadian hockey player. The chance to represent Canada remains a rare and remarkable privilege.