BEIJING — When the NHL opted out of the Olympics in December because of COVID-19 issues that led to a slew of postponed games, USA Hockey turned to the college ranks to assemble its team.
The kids had no problems opting in, regardless of concerns at the time about how infected athletes would be treated at the Beijing Games.
"I just thought about the opportunity ahead of me," Minnesota Gophers forward Matthew Knies said. "I think this is a once-in-a-lifetime [experience]. I don't think many kids get this chance to be on an Olympic team and to represent USA hockey."
