Fasel told The Associated Press on Friday there was a “common understanding in the case of really bad COVID-19 situation” that the NHL would not risk sending players to China.
Not long after that, USA Hockey, Hockey Canada and 10 other national federations must submit the “long list” of players under consideration.
That player pool includes reigning top goal-scorer Auston Matthews, reigning Norris Trophy-winning defenseman Adam Fox and 2020 Vezina Trophy-winning goaltender Connor Hellebuyck.
Up next within the next week or two is a meeting to organize and work out logistics and coaches’ roles, and then a meeting with all eligible U.S.
Barring injury, reigning NHL MVP Connor McDavid is expected to get the chance to play for Canada at the Olympics for the first time in his career.