Team Canada is gearing up for the 2024 Spengler Cup, set to kick off on December 26 in Davos, Switzerland, and among its roster, several former Montreal Canadiens players are set to showcase their skills on the international stage.
The Spengler Cup, renowned for being one of the oldest ice hockey tournaments, brings together elite teams from around the world, and this year, the Canadian team will field some familiar names from the Canadiens’ past.
Leading the charge is 32-year-old forward Logan Shaw. After spending his junior hockey years with the Quebec Remparts, where he served as alternate captain under the coaching of Patrick Roy, Shaw was drafted third overall by the Florida Panthers during the 2011 NHL Draft. Although he didn’t fully establish himself as a mainstay NHL player, he did have a notable stint with the Canadiens during the 2017-18 season, where he played 30 games and recorded two goals and four assists. Presently, Shaw plays for the Toronto Marlies in the AHL after spending the past four seasons honing his skills there.
Next up is Daniel Carr, aged 33, who has carved out his own niche within the NHL. Over three seasons with the Canadiens, Carr competed in 94 games, accumulating 16 goals and 21 assists for 37 points. Beyond his tenure with the Habs, he donned jerseys for teams such as the Vegas Golden Knights, Nashville Predators, and Washington Capitals. Currently, Carr is playing for Lugano, competing in the Swiss league.
Another well-known figure among Canadiens fans is Charles Hudon. Drafted in the fifth round of the 2012 NHL Draft, Hudon has appeared in 125 games for the Canadiens and made nine additional appearances with the Colorado Avalanche, leading to 41 points over his total NHL career. His experience and offensive talent could play a valuable role for Team Canada at the Spengler Cup.
Rounding out the Canadiens alumni on the Canadian roster is Phillipe Maillet, who was signed by the Canadiens on a one-year, two-way deal back in July 2023. Although he spent the entire season with the Laval Rocket, Maillet demonstrated his offensive capabilities by netting 53 points over 67 games, and his competitive spirit will surely help PCanada’s quest for the Spengler Cup.
Complementing these players are two additional athletes connected to the Canadiens. Defenseman Noel Hoefenmayer was recently traded to the organization from the Anaheim Ducks and has already begun adapting, having played two games with the Laval Rocket and contributing one assist. Madison Bowey is also part of the Canadiens’ extended roster, having previously played 35 games with the Rocket during the 2022-23 season, adding 13 points to his stats.
Factoring these players' time with the Canadiens, they're now eager to prove themselves on the international stage. The Spengler Cup is not only about winning but also about showcasing talent and forming new bonds within the team, and these former Canadiens players are set to make their mark with Team Canada. Fans across the globe will be watching as these familiar faces take on the spirited challenge of the Spengler Cup.
The excitement of the event merges both nostalgia for Canadiens fans and the thrill of international competition, creating high expectations for these players to deliver their best performances.
The Spengler Cup’s historical significance cannot be understated, beginning back in 1923, and it has often showcased the talents of players from various nations. Canada has been particularly successful, having won the trophy numerous times, and with these skilled former Canadiens on their roster, fans are hopeful of another victory.
With the tournament quickly approaching, anticipation builds as Team Canada prepares to compete against high-caliber teams from around the world. The former Canadiens players' involvement not only adds depth to the team but also perhaps some added motivation, encouraging everyone involved to aim high.
Stay tuned as all the action begins, and support Team Canada as they chase glory at the historic Spengler Cup!
