Jiří Hrdina, a former Czechoslovak representative and three-time Stanley Cup winner, shared his insights on the recent Olympic hockey event, remarking on the performance of the NHL stars after a 12-year absence from the games. He praised the refereeing, stating that it seemed they were the best officials available. In his interview, Hrdina reflected on the high-quality game between Canada and the USA, calling it the best hockey he has ever seen. He also noted the challenges Canada faced during playoffs but celebrated the overall competitiveness of the final match.

Hrdina further discussed the implications of recent performances, particularly the USA's victories in both men's and women's tournaments, which indicate a shift in dominance in North American hockey. He acknowledged the increasing number of American players in the NHL, signaling a noteworthy trend where the USA is challenging Canada’s historical status as the top hockey power. Despite these observations, Hrdina cautioned against prematurely pronouncing Canada’s decline, insisting that they still maintain a substantial presence in the NHL.

The conversation raises questions about the future of Olympic hockey and the evolving landscape of international competition. As teams adapt and new talents emerge, the dynamic between traditional powerhouses and rising competitors could redefine the sport’s global competition, especially as formats and participatory dynamics might also shift in upcoming tournaments and leagues.