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Originally Posted by Finger Cookin
The Canada Cup was big coming off the Summit Series and Canada vs. Russia novelty during the Cold War. Things have changed in the almost 40 years since it was introduced, and in the 20 years since it was held. NHL players can compete in the Olympics and World Championships now, for example. But yes, Alan Eagleson's embezzlement scheme sure was romantic.
The World Cups that followed the Canada Cups were rendered meaningless trivia when Olympic participation was allowed starting in 1998. Especially 2004, which was a last chance to fill the war chests prior to the work stoppage.
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But the NHL is almost certainly pulling out of the Olympics. So the World Cup will once again be the premiere best-on-best international tournament. And once it's going again, Canadian hockey fans will care about it just as much as they've cared about the Olympic Gold in recent years. There will be all the hype. All the anticipation. And the hockey will be just as good.