To those saying the @IIHFHockey reduce the field in the #WorldJuniors , remember that for players from nations like Germany and Austria, representing their country in a world championship is a huge honour, one that for many of them will be a career highlight, despite the scores.

Talking with the players, there isn’t one German or Austrian who wishes they weren’t here. Their only regret is that they don’t get to play in front of fans in an NHL arena. The ones coming back next year are excited about it, and that they’re part of building the sport at home.

The blowout losses are offset by the visibility the event receives. Think of Switzerland, whose upset QF win over Russia in 2010 was an enormous boost for the sport in their country. Seven years later a Swiss player, Nico Hischier, was picked 1st overall in the NHL draft.