Renowned hockey journalist and commentator, John Buccigross, has recently put forth a compelling argument in favor of hosting best-on-best hockey tournaments to further the international growth of the sport. Buccigross has underscored the importance of such tournaments in elevating the global recognition of star players such as Connor McDavid and in amplifying the profile of hockey on an international platform.
The absence of best-on-best tournaments, which entail top players from different nations competing against each other, has been conspicuous since the conclusion of the 2016 Hockey World Cup. This void has denied players of the calibre of Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, Jack Hughes, Auston Matthews, and Jack Eichel the opportunity to represent their respective countries in a fiercely competitive format.
Buccigross has drawn attention to the soaring recognition experienced by French soccer player Kylian Mbappe following his exceptional performance in the World Cup final. He contends that comparable opportunities for exposure are indispensable for hockey players like Connor McDavid, who may lack widespread renown beyond the NHL.
The clamor for best-on-best tournaments has reverberated within the hockey community, with Connor McDavid himself expressing enthusiasm for the concept. He lauded the recent triumph of the World Baseball Classic and its capacity to showcase the premier talents in the sport, emphasizing the absence of a similar platform for hockey.
The resounding success of the World Baseball Classic and the resolute demand for best-on-best tournaments has reportedly prompted the NHL to contemplate hosting a tournament in 2025, featuring teams from five different nations. This prospect has elicited fervent excitement among fans and players alike, who are eagerly anticipating the exhibition of competitive spirit and skill by top hockey stars on an international stage.
The fervent advocacy for best-on-best hockey tournaments epitomizes a collective aspiration to broaden the global footprint of the sport and afford players the opportunity to represent their countries at the highest level of competition. It signifies a pivotal stride towards venerating the talent and diversity of the international hockey community, whilst captivating audiences across the globe.