Should Datsyuk Play For Team Russia?
UPDATE: Mike Babcock slips up on Sportsnet Fan590 interview and mentions Datsyuk returning to the lineup tomorrow, versus Florida. “Tomorrow night, with the Red Wings, with Datsyuk back, I’m going to play 4 forwards on both units.”
– Mike Babcock (2/4/14
Here’s the entire interview, (Datsyuk comment at 13:51 mark) courtesy of Sportsnet Fan590…
Traveling with @DetroitRedWings to Florida. Hoping to be back in the lineup tomorrow!
— Pavel Datsyuk (@Datsyuk13) February 5, 2014
How do Red Wings fans feel about Pavel Datsyuk playing in Sochi?
The Detroit fan base is understandably concerned when it comes to their star center. Pavel Datsyuk has played in just one game in 2014, yet is completely prepared to put his body on the line for his Olympic team, Russia.
On Sunday, Datsyuk said, “I’m hoping to skate in practice tomorrow, then day by day.” Day by day? Those aren’t confidence instilling words. “Day by day” is what you say when you have no idea when you’ll be healthy. “Day by day” is what they said about Sidney Crosby two seasons ago.
Obviously, Pavel wants to play for his country and he wants to be a part of things, but you got to be healthy.”- Detroit Coach, Mike Babcock
When asked if he would be ready to play in a Red Wings game prior to the Olympics, Datsyuk stated…”I’m hoping. I’m hoping to.” Datsyuk was quoted by The Detroit News as saying that he would like to play in one or two games this week. There are only 2 games remaining on the schedule. If Datsyuk isn’t prepared to play for the Red Wings before the break, should he play for Team Russia?
Mike Babcock pulled back the curtain a bit when he said that Datsyuk was “one-leg skating today”. Babcock appears to be more willing to express his feelings than Wings GM Ken Holland. Babcock added, “I just watched him in practice; his one leg isn’t holding up,” Babcock said. “Obviously, Pavel wants to play for his country and he wants to be a part of things, but you got to be healthy.”
You’ve got to be healthy
The Wings have gone a month without their second leading scorer, and the patience of fans is growing thin. It isn’t like Detroit is in the midst of another President’s Trophy run, they’re currently holding down a wild card slot by their fingernails. I’m sure that has a lot to do with the opinion of the fans.
Datsyuk’s POV
This is the first time that Datsyuk’s dedication to the team has been in question. Should we give him a pass? He’s played his entire career in Detroit, and has hoisted the Stanley Cup, while wearing the Winged Wheel. Should fans accept him at his word? It’s a tough spot for all parties involved. I’m sure the Wings would prefer that he didn’t play, I’m equally confident that Datsyuk is going to play for Russia, despite his physical condition. I’m not so sure I wouldn’t do the same thing as he is. However, if he would just suit up for one of these final two games, I think the vast majority of Detroit fans would support him wholeheartedly.
What do you think?
- Should Datsyuk play for Team Russia?
- Would Datsyuk playing in a Wings game before the break change your mind?
- What should Datsyuk’s priority be…team…or country?
Tough questions! Feel free to share your opinion in the comments.
Share your thoughts!
