When Team Canada announced their initial 25-man Olympic roster on New Year’s Eve, the only Oiler named in the list was Connor McDavid. Oilers winger Zach Hyman, despite his chemistry with Connor McDavid and consistent production since returning from injury, didn't make the cut. Most assumed his Olympic hopes were finished until Brayden Point went down with an injury that's thrown everything into question.
Now, with the Olympics just over three weeks away, Hyman's phone might still ring after all.
Tampa Bay Lightning confirmed this week that Point is dealing with a week-to-week injury timeline putting his Olympic availability in serious jeopardy. The timing couldn't be worse for him as Point had earned a critical role in Team Canada's plans projected to center McDavid on the top line after their successful partnership during the Four Nations Faceoff Final. Losing him creates both a roster hole and a chemistry challenge that Canada's brass must solve quickly.
Zach Hyman touted to be in discussion to replace Brayden Point
Oilers insider Jason Gregor made a compelling argument for why Hyman deserves serious consideration as Point's replacement this week. According to Gregor, the decision comes down to one crucial factor in proven chemistry with McDavid.
"Team Canada will be discussing options in case he can't go, and if Point can't go, Zach Hyman's recent play should have him in the discussion to replace him," Gregor explained.
"The advantage Hyman has on Bennett, Johnston and Schiefele is he can produce while playing with McDavid. Not every player can, and in a short tournament like the Olympics finding chemistry can be the key to victory."
Here's the thing about Hyman that makes him such an interesting option. He has perfected the art of being McDavid's complement. While Canada has flashier names available, few players have demonstrated the ability to capitalize on the chances McDavid creates quite like Hyman.
His recent stretch also speaks volumes with 14 goals in 17 games. He is one of those players with legitimate finishing ability who knows exactly where to be when the puck is loose around the crease.
The case for Hyman makes a lot of sense
Hyman's bread and butter is converting the scramble plays, the rebounds, the dirty goals that playoff hockey and Olympic tournaments are built on.
Beyond the numbers, Hyman also brings the intangibles that matter in February hockey. His work ethic is legendary, his playoff pedigree is proven and of course his willingness to pay the price in traffic is exactly what Team Canada typically values.
Sure, Canada could go with Sam Bennett's grit or opt for a pure skill play with other available forwards. But if the goal is finding someone to slot directly into Point's projected role alongside McDavid without missing a beat? Hyman makes too much sense to ignore.
As Point's recovery timeline progresses over the coming weeks, Hyman's case will either strengthen or fade. But for now, the Oilers forward has to be feeling hopeful. An Olympic dream that seemed dead just weeks ago suddenly has a pulse.