Team USA has announced the roster for the 4 Nations Face-Off, but Utah Hockey Club forward and captain Clayton Keller was not included in the final roster of 23 players who will represent the nation from February 12-20 in Montreal and Boston. Along with Keller, several other notable players were also left off the team. While his inclusion wasn’t guaranteed, it was still surprising to not see his name on the list.
Puzzling Decision to Leave Utah Forward off Roster
Why He Didn’t Make It
The decision by Minnesota Wild and Team USA general manager Bill Guerin to exclude Keller appears to be based on the team’s strategy to build a forward core that combines speed, size, and defense. Although Keller excels in terms of speed, his 5-foot-10 height may have been a factor in his omission. This is reminiscent of Montreal Canadiens forward Cole Caufield, who, despite being tied for third in the league in goals, is 5-foot-7 and also did not make the team. In contrast, New York Rangers and New York Islanders forwards Chris Kreider (6-foot-3) and Brock Nelson (6-foot-4) possess both size and scoring ability, and they currently have more goals than Keller. Team USA management had a specific vision, leading to the exclusion of some star players.
Historically, it has been difficult for shorter players to make a significant impact in the NHL. Martin St. Louis, who struggled to find opportunities with the Calgary Flames, eventually found success with the Tampa Bay Lightning and won the Stanley Cup in 2004. Keller has the skills of a talented winger who can score and assist, but Team USA opted for a different approach focused on size.
Why He Could’ve Made It
Despite his height, Keller remains one of the most dynamic players in the league and the best player for Utah. His speed and puck-handling have drawn comparisons to a younger Patrick Kane, widely regarded as one of the best players in Team USA history. Keller has made the All-Star Game for the last three seasons while playing in Arizona and currently leads all Utah skaters in scoring with 22 points in 25 games. Although he’s on a slower pace this season with just seven goals, he has previously scored over 30 goals in consecutive seasons.
Keller’s ability to drive plays is notable; he often carries the puck up the ice in both even strength and power-play situations. With a career more focused on assists than goals, he is recognized as an elite playmaker and an exceptional passer. While Team USA has a good balance of scoring, speed, and physicality, it’s unclear if they have enough players capable of setting up plays. This is an area where Keller could have made a significant impact.
Only Way the Forward Gets on the Roster
Although all four teams have the option to carry an extra forward, there is a small chance Keller could still play for Team USA. If there is an injury and a player is unable to dress, Keller could potentially be called up to replace them. However, it’s likely that someone like Caufield or Tage Thompson of the Buffalo Sabres would be preferred. The decision ultimately rests with Team USA, but this is the only way Keller could be included. If he maintains a good season, he might be considered if an opportunity arises.
Leave a Reply