Quote:
Originally Posted by Resolute 14
Depending on how well received it is though, it might be the best thing for the NHL.
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It might be from a business perspective for the NHL, but I don't think it does as much in terms of building the game of hockey internationally, as the Olympics can. The Olympics come with built-in brand equity that fans and players alike have instant respect for. People of all types watch sports that they wouldn't regularly watch otherwise, which has potential to increase it's popularity (but of course, not necessarily profits for the NHL).
The World Cup of hockey on the other hand has random history and consistency. The best thing it has going for it is the name, as it piggy backs off of other sports tournaments. You're not going to get a lot of non-hockey fans watching, and I doubt there is as much passion for it amongst the players as well. I doubt Ovechkin would ever threaten to leave his NHL team if he wasn't allowed to play in the World Cup.
I get why the NHL is doing this, but in the end it's basically a business decision, not a hockey decision. The interests of fans and the game itself, is clearly not a priority.