Edmonton Oilers forward Zach Hyman is currently showcasing his remarkable scoring ability, having found the net nine times over the past eight games, just after being omitted from Team Canada’s roster for the Four Nations Face-Off tournament. This could very well be a blessing for the Oilers, as Hyman has seemingly turned his disappointment over the snub—deemed the "Hyman snub" by fans—into fuel for his performance on the ice.
Despite being one of the top players with 54 goals last season, Hyman’s exclusion from the national team lineup raised eyebrows. Many, including fans and sports commentators, were left questioning the decision, especially due to Hyman's versatility as he not only scores but also contributes defensively and on the power-play.
Hyman’s recent scoring streak is no accident; since the Team Canada roster decision, he has transformed his game. A slow start this season—where he only managed one goal over his first 11 games—prompted doubts among the selection committee. They opted for players they believed could perform at peak levels, but they overlooked Hyman’s potential resurgence.
"The players left off the team took it personally and have had something to prove ever since," remarked TSN's Hockey Insider, emphasizing the motivational aspect surrounding Hyman’s return to form.
Hyman’s chemistry with Connor McDavid has always been noteworthy, with the duo previously racking up impressive statistics together. Their compatibility is well-documented, as Hyman has consistently demonstrated the ability to be at the right place at the right time, particularly on the power play, making him invaluable to the Oilers.
Interestingly, Hyman's current streak has come after keeping quiet about his feelings on the Team Canada decision. He’s shown resilience, focusing on his game instead of getting entangled with the disappointment of the past. This is characteristic of Hyman—he prefers to let his play speak for itself, as he has done since making his pro debut.
Each time critics or teams have doubted Hyman, he has found ways to reinvent himself and rise to the occasion. He has often played with added intensity when faced with adversity, and his latest performance is no exception. "It’s tough to predict who is going to be playing well in February when you have to name the roster two months in advance," one commentator noted, highlighting the precarious nature of roster decisions.
While Hyman will miss out on the upcoming tournament, he remains optimistic about future opportunities, including the Olympic Games slated for next year. Many believe his recent form may position him favorably should Canada review their selections again, especially if they face any player injuries. Hyman himself has expressed he would prefer to earn his spot on merit rather than someone else’s misfortune, demonstrating his commitment to fair play and sportsmanship.
Hyman’s resilience shines through as he continues to score goals and rally his team, making him one of the most efficient goal-scorers currently playing. Throughout his career, he has gone through multiple transformations, from being traded from Florida to flourishing with the Maple Leafs and now the Oilers, showcasing his adaptability and determination.
This season, he might be positioned for another leap, not just with the Oilers but potentially on the international stage if circumstances change. For now, Hyman continues to be the player who, with each goal, not only elevates his team’s chances of success but also proves to the hockey world just how impactful he can be when challenged.
Despite the disappointments and obstacles he has faced, Zach Hyman reminds fans and critics alike why he has consistently been one of the most reliable forwards in the NHL. With seven of his last eight games resulting in wins for Edmonton, it's clear his current mindset of proving everyone wrong is working wonders. Expect Hyman, the player with something to prove, to keep delivering as the season progresses, possibly rewriting narratives about his status as he marches forward with renewed vigor.
