A TEAM FOR TURIN
The Turin Winter Olympics begin in 1,441 days, and events this week in the National Hockey League served as a reminder that Mario Lemieux and other Canadian hockey heroes from the 2002 Games will be either well past their prime or retired.
Grant Kerr, a Globe hockey writer and coach of a Junior A team in Greater Vancouver, was asked to look into his crystal ball to pick a 22-man Canadian squad for the Turin Games.
Goal

Martin Brodeur, New Jersey Devils: Deserves top consideration after proving in the gold-medal game this year he can make game-saving stops.

José Théodore, Montreal Canadiens: Considered the best young goaltender in the game as he takes away the bottom of the net consistently.

Roberto Luongo, Florida Panthers: Has international experience with the Canadian juniors and would be considered a star player on a contending team.

Defence

Chris Pronger, St. Louis Blues: There isn't a longer reach in the defensive zone and the 6-foot-6 technician makes the best outlet pass in the game.

Adam Foote, Colorado Avalanche: A superb penalty-killer as he angles well and is fearlessly physical around the net.

Scott Niedermayer, Devils: Has the speed to lead rushes through the neutral zone and his shot is delivered quickly and accurately.

Ed Jovanovski, Vancouver Canucks: Another defender with the quickness to make the transition to attack. Maturity has led to better decisions.

Eric Brewer, Edmonton Oilers: Likes to carry through the neutral zone and has the size to be effective defensively as he learns the game.

Wade Redden, Ottawa Senators: This smoothie can do it all as his game has reached another level in terms of efficiency.

Jay McKee, Buffalo Sabres: Just missed being selected for 2002 as this underrated hitter plays a tough defensive game similar to Foote.

Left wing

Simon Gagné, Philadelphia Flyers: Often overlooked because of his flowing style that blends in seamlessly on attack. A terrific penalty-killer.

Paul Kariya, Anaheim Mighty Ducks: Creates space with his ability to stretch defences through use of explosive speed. Can play the other wing, too.

Ryan Smyth, Oilers: Thrives in the offensive zone with his grinding style along the boards and behind the net that irritates opponents.

Dany Heatley, Atlanta Thrashers: This first-year pro is the real deal because he has a complete game, including going to the net with a purpose.

Alex Tanguay, Avalanche: Has learned how to play without the puck and has a habit of scoring key goals off the rush.

Centre

Joe Sakic, Avalanche: Should be the 2006 captain because he leads through example when it matters most. His quick shot is deadly accurate.

Mike Peca: A role player of great value on special teams because he hits, back-checks, wins faceoffs and kills penalties.

Joe Thornton, Boston Bruins: Just missed selection last time and should be more mature in four years as he makes more disciplined decisions.

Brad Richards, Tampa Bay Lightning: Better equipped to handle pressure than his inconsistent teammate, Vincent Lecavalier. Great passer on power plays.

Right wing

Jarome Iginla, Calgary Flames: The NHL scoring leader is on the threshold of being a superstar. The power forward plays like a young Cam Neely.

Anson Carter, Oilers: Has the skill to shoot off the pass and finish plays that others flub. Has performed well in international tournaments.

Jason Allison, Los Angeles Kings: His skating is suspect, but everywhere he plays he puts up points by using his body to protect the puck when cycling.

Justin Williams, Flyers: Just emerging as an offensive threat as he slowly gets more ice time to show that his skills can make a difference.