Josh Ho-Sang officially named to Team Canada’s Men’s Olympic team

It’s officially official, @Josh Ho-Sang is going to the Olympics with Team Canada.

It was pretty official after Monday’s accidental rollout of Canada’s roster by the IIHF. But now, it’s there for everyone’s eyes to see.

Ho-Sang has had a stellar season with the Toronto Marlies so far, tallying 20 points in 27 games this season. For most of the season so far, the 26-year-old has been a part of the Marlies top-six.

As of right now, the 26-year-old is currently dealing with a concussion that hopefully subsides before he leaves for Beijing.

Ho-Sang’s ability to drive play up the ice while also being a threat in the offensive zone is one of the reasons why he was selected. He’s incredibly skilled and loves to play on the big stage, which he’ll get the chance to do at the Olympics with Team Canada.

“I definitely think the fans motivate me,” said Ho-Sang earlier this season. “I’m a big believer in ‘the bigger the crowd, the better I play.'”

Last week, the IOC announced that ” tickets should not be sold anymore but be part of an adapted programme that will invite groups of spectators to be present on site during the Games.” It’s not known whether this means other Canadian Olympians will be able to attend, but you can still expect some fans in the arena.

The reason I bring this to attention is because Ho-Sang loves playing in front of a crowd. He believes his play is much better in front of fans. Although there’s not going to be many fans, Ho-Sang is playing for Team Canada at the Olympics, and that alone will drive him to be the best player possible.

The 26-year-old has only represented his country once in his career at the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge. And while he’s had a fascinating relationship with Hockey Canada in the past, this moment will be great for both sides.

This will be an exciting opportunity for him.

Although it’s not a best-on-best, Ho-Sang will be able to highlight his skills on the world stage. Which, in turn, could help him get an NHL contract with the Maple Leafs.

It already seemed possible that the 26-year-old could be signed by Toronto ahead of the trade deadline. But if he has an Olympics to remember, that contract could be expected once he returns to Canada.

Team Canada’s Olympic roster will be headlined by @Eric Staal, who’s played four games with the Iowa Wild as an Olympics tune-up. The team also features two former players who were in the Maple Leafs organization in Daniel Winnik and Adam Cracknell.

There was also a list of alternate players that Canada will bring to the Olympics. You might recognize a few names on this list.

Congratulations to everyone that’s headed to the Olympics, but an extra congratulations to Ho-Sang, who’s been a pleasure to talk to since joining the Marlies.

Like Jon Steitzer said in yesterday’s article on Ho-Sang being named to Team Canada, this addition should give us all a reason to wake up at 3AM and watch Olympic hockey.