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sports1d ago
Why Italy didn’t name heritage players to its Olympic hockey team, and why it thinks it can surprise
- Italy will compete in the Milan-Cortina Olympics with no NHL players on its roster, relying on Italian nationals and dual citizens.
- Coach Jukka Jalonen says inviting NHL players would not be fair to Italians who have played for the country for years.
- Italy aims for a potential quarterfinal through a fourth, decisive game in the Olympic format.
- Italy’s roster features veterans with 100-plus international games and a mix of young forwards.
- Italy’s coach notes the tournament format could allow an upset despite heavy NHL presence by opponents.
- Italy is preparing with a focused training camp and an exhibition against Germany ahead of the Games.
- Italy’s leadership emphasizes pride and high effort, aiming to prove they can compete with top teams.
- Italy’s goaltender Damian Clara is 21 and on loan to Brynäs in Sweden, reflecting the roster’s European focus.
- The Italian federation considered using heritage players but ultimately chose a homegrown approach.
- Jalonen has a storied background, including coaching Finland to Olympic gold and multiple World Titles.
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