Team Canada Picks Seth Jarvis Over Zach Hyman for Olympic Roster: A Tough Call, But Not the Wrong One
When Team Canada announced that Seth Jarvis would be replacing the injured Brayden Point on their Olympic roster, the reaction was swift-and, in some corners, heated. Not because Jarvis didn’t deserve it.
He absolutely did. But because of who didn’t get the call: Edmonton Oilers winger Zach Hyman.
Hyman, fresh off a 54-goal season and one of the NHL’s most relentless net-front presences, seemed like a natural fit. He’s been a cornerstone on Connor McDavid’s wing, thriving in a role that demands grit, finish, and elite hockey sense. So when his name wasn’t called, especially with an Olympic spot opening up, it raised eyebrows across Oil Country.
But was it really a snub? That depends on how you look at it.
Why Jarvis Got the Nod
Let’s start with the guy who did make the team. Seth Jarvis, just 24, has been a force for the Carolina Hurricanes this season.
He leads the team in goals and sits third in points with 43-production that speaks for itself. But beyond the numbers, there’s a familiarity factor here too.
Jarvis played a key role in Canada’s 4 Nations Face-Off championship run last year. That tournament, while not quite the Olympics, gave Hockey Canada a chance to see how certain players fit into their system.
Jarvis passed that test with flying colors. According to Team Canada GM Doug Armstrong, that familiarity played a major role in the decision.
And while names like Wyatt Johnston, Connor Bedard, Mark Scheifele, and yes, Hyman, were all in the mix, Armstrong acknowledged the final decision wasn’t unanimous. That’s telling.
This wasn’t a slam dunk. It was a debate.
But Jarvis earned it-his speed, his two-way game, and his ability to play center or wing make him an ideal fit for a tournament where roles can shift quickly. He’s the kind of player who can slide up and down the lineup, contribute on special teams, and handle the pressure of big moments.
The Case for Hyman
Still, it’s easy to see why Hyman’s omission stings for Oilers fans. He’s been one of the most consistent and complete wingers in the league this season.
His chemistry with McDavid is undeniable-built over years, not weeks. And in a short tournament like the Olympics, where cohesion and familiarity can be the difference between gold and heartbreak, that kind of connection matters.
Hyman’s game is tailor-made for international play. He’s a puck hound, a grinder with elite finishing touch, and a guy who makes life miserable for opposing goalies. Whether you need a power-play net-front presence, a penalty killer, or a top-line winger, Hyman checks every box.
And let’s not forget-he’s healthy now, but he’s coming off a significant injury. A little extra rest during the Olympic break might not be the worst thing for him or the Oilers, who have been struggling to find consistency.
No Wrong Answer Here
Former Leafs GM Gord Stellick may have summed it up best: Jarvis is the kind of player every team wants. And if Team Canada already had their top lines set, including McDavid’s, then it may have come down to fit and flexibility. In that context, Jarvis makes perfect sense.
This wasn’t about leaving Hyman behind because he didn’t deserve it. It was about choosing between two deserving players, each offering something slightly different.
One brings familiarity with the system and positional versatility. The other brings elite chemistry with the team’s best player and a proven track record of scoring in high-pressure situations.
Ultimately, Team Canada opted for Jarvis. It’s a tough call-but not the wrong one.
What’s Next
For Jarvis, this is a massive opportunity. He’ll join a stacked Canadian lineup with a chance to prove he belongs on the biggest stage in international hockey.
And by all accounts, he’s ready. “I’m super honored,” he said.
“To be able to play at the highest level, on a stage like this, is everyone’s dream.”
As for Hyman, he’ll get a few weeks to recharge. That could be a blessing in disguise for the Oilers, who will need him at his best down the stretch. If Edmonton is going to shake off their current slump and make a serious playoff push, a rested, motivated Hyman could be a game-changer.
So while the Olympic spotlight shifts to Jarvis, don’t count out Hyman just yet. His season-and his impact-are far from over.