The Canadian men's hockey team for the Olympics has sparked controversy by announcing that the media would not be allowed to attend their practice sessions, a rare move that has puzzled many Canadian journalists on the scene. Veteran sports journalist Pierre LeBrun noted that he has covered every Olympic hockey event since 1998 and has never witnessed Canada take such an unusual step. This decision raises questions about transparency and media relations in sports, especially during high-profile international competitions.

The Canadian team, filled with NHL stars, is also unique in that they are not staying at the Olympic Village in Milan, opting instead for accommodation at a luxury hotel provided by the NHL Players' Association. This choice adds to the sense of separation between the team and the Olympic spirit, which traditionally emphasizes camaraderie and community, and highlights the growing influence of professional leagues like the NHL on international events.

On Wednesday, Canadian General Manager Doug Armstrong addressed the media to clarify that the closed practices would not be a recurring policy, describing the decision as a one-time measure due to the team photo scheduled for that day. This attempt to limit media interaction raises concerns about the implications for future media coverage and whether other teams might follow Canada’s lead in restricting access, potentially leading to a shift in how Olympic hockey is perceived and covered by the press.