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Scotty Bowman: Saad should be on Olympic team

Brandon Saad

Chicago Blackhawks left wing Brandon Saad (20) celebrates scoring a goal against the Florida Panthers during the third period of an NHL hockey game on Sunday, Dec. 8, 2013, in Chicago, Ill. (AP Photo/Andrew A. Nelles)

AP

Chicago Blackhawks forward Brandon Saad is only in his sophomore season, but legendary coach Scotty Bowman still thinks he should have made Team USA’s Olympic roster.

“He should be [on the team],” Bowman told ESPN’s Craig Custance (paywall). “He’s really coming on. He’s got 14 goals. He doesn’t play crazy minutes yet. He’s going to be an all-around player. He’s just got it. He’s strong on his feet. You can see his strength building up all the time.”

Scotty Bowman’s son, Chicago Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman, was part of the selection committee. Like his father, the younger Bowman thinks highly of Saad and spoke in support of him throughout the process, based on an ESPN report.

In the end, Blake Wheeler and T.J. Oshie were only narrowly picked over Saad, so it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Blackhawks forward get serious consideration as an injury replacement if the United States needs one.

It would certainly make some sense, especially given that Saad already has developed on-ice chemistry with Patrick Kane and that kind of familiarity can be very valuable in the Olympics. His lack of experience is knock against him, but then again, he did play a significant role in Chicago’s 2013 Stanley Cup championship.

For now though, all Saad can do is continue to serve the Blackhawks and let whatever happens, happen.

Follow @RyanDadoun