Thursday, November 22, 2001
Roy says, No Canada
Tired Avs star goalie won't play for country in Olympics
By BRUCE GARRIOCH -- Ottawa Sun
A tired Patrick Roy will not play for Canada in the Olympics.
The Colorado Avalanche goaltender shocked the hockey world last night when he announced he no longer wants to be considered for the goaltending job with Team Canada at the 2002 Olympic Games in Salt Lake City.
"There's no conflict," said Roy last night. "It's personal reasons. I've been there before.
"I understand people (in Canada) aren't going to accept my decision. I only ask that they respect it.
"Maybe it's time for somebody else to get the chance to see what they can do. I want to take that time to prepare for the playoffs and finish strong."
Toronto's Curtis Joseph and New Jersey's Martin Brodeur will battle it out for the Canadian starting job. Dallas' Ed Belfour is also considered a top candidate. Florida's Roberto Luongo should also be considered.
Sources say Roy, 36, who has been troubled by a hip problem and could need surgery at the end of this season, told Team Canada GM Wayne Gretzky he was "tired" and wants to use the 12-day Olympic break for a rest.
Roy led the attack for the country in 1998 in Nagano, but didn't get Canada a medal showing. He has been heavily criticized for his performance and coach Marc Crawford was also under attack for not removing him.
The question is: Who starts for Canada? Joseph has the better numbers as Brodeur's Devils have struggled offensively.
Roy may not have accepted splitting the duties in Salt Lake City, a scenario Gretzky said was possible.
"Patrick Roy has done enough for hockey that he can make whatever decision he wants," said Joseph.
"I know everybody is saying that this is bad news for Canada but this country still has good goaltending," said Sportsnet analyst Nick Kypreos. "There are a lot of strong goaltenders who can play for Canada."
2002 Games Men's Hockey Coverage
