Team Canada Needs To Get Over Whatever Beef They Have With Thompson

Logan Thompson has quietly emerged as one of the NHL’s most dominant goaltenders, yet he still seems to be flying under Team Canada’s radar. The Washington Capitals netminder finished fourth in Vezina Trophy voting last season and has started the 2025-26 campaign even stronger. Not only should he be in the running for Team Canada, he should be in the conversation to be their starter.

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Statistically, Thompson has been elite this season and it’s not a new phenomenon. This is a goalie who has, year after year, boasted a save percentage above .900 and a goals against average well below 3.0. Yet, for some reason, he was left off Team Canada’s tryout roster and invite camp list.

Why?

Elliotte Friedman reports that Thompson wasn’t selected for the recent 4 Nations tournament because management questioned whether he could handle a backup role. It’s a fascinating reason to keep a deserving player off the team, especially given that Thompson has reportedly expressed willingness to serve in that capacity.

There is no reason to suggest he lacks the professionalism and team-first attitude that should make him a compelling candidate. He recently said to the media, “Hope I make it, if not, still cheering on Team Canada, but my main focus is here with the guys.”

According to Steve Valiquette, Bruce Cassidy and Pete DeBoer didn’t want Logan Thompson on Team Canada because of their experience with him in Vegas. “That was never going to happen.”

Team Canada Needs To Get Over Whatever Beef They Have With Thompson

Despite his outstanding play, Thompson continues to be overlooked. On a recent night when Jordan Binnington struggled, Thompson was flawless. Team Canada execs were at that game. It was the same game where Binnington tried to steal Ovechkin’s puck after his 900th goal.

Not only that, but Team Canada lacks other strong options. With Adin Hill expected to miss several months, and Sam Montembeault doing anything but impressing, Canada has openings in goal.

For Team Canada, leaving one of the league’s best netminders at home would be a glaring oversight. Thompson has proven he can perform at the highest level and is ready to back it up on the international stage. At this point, it’s hard to see a reason to keep him out.

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