Luongo, Sedins headline more players keeping family at home during Olympics
The growing concern over adequate security at the Sochi Olympics in Russia has left a majority of players with the decision of who to bring. Phoenix Coyotes goaltender Mike Smith has already said his pregnant wife and two children will be staying home, others are now following in his footsteps.
According to Nick Costonika, the NHL will bring their own security to the games which is something they insisted on when negotiating with the IOC and IIHF over NHL participation.
NHL deputy comissioner Bill Daly told Costonika via email they are doing everything in their power to make sure all NHL players and families are secure.
"There’s only so much you can do when it comes to security at an Olympic event. At the end of the day, we have to rely on the organizing committee, the Russian government and the IOC to ensure a safe environment for our athletes and guests. We are being briefed on a regular basis. There’s certainly a level of concern, but I can’t say that it’s been heightened by recent events. I would also say that we have been given no reason to doubt that everything possible is being and will be done to keep the Games safe." Quote via Nick Costonika
Vancouver Canucks teammates Roberto Luongo and both Henrik and Daniel Sedin have decided to leave their families at home as well. Luongo mentioned security is an issue that's on his mind, "I think we're all a little bit concerned. We're definitely going to keep an eye on it over the next few weeks." Daniel Sedin mentioned to Joshua Clipperton he is discouraging family members from attending the games.
Anaheim Ducks forward Ryan Getzlaf will also have his family at home while he competes in Russia telling Costonika he doesn't want to take a chance. "That was a family decision, when it came down to it. It was hard. But the whole situation over there, isn’t good for young kids."
Boston Bruins forward Patrice Bergeron was a little more outspoken about his stance on security issues in Russia as he told the Boston Herald:
"I’ve got to say security is part of it. It actually blows my mind that people could consider attacking the Olympics. It’s sad that it comes to that. It’s such an honor for athletes and such a great event. You work so hard to get there. It’s sad that this could happen... I don’t know if anything could change my mind. You obviously don’t want to hear about anything happening. That’s the last thing you want to hear. But I feel like the security over there is going to handle it. I’m sure the Olympic Village is going to be very secure. So right now, I feel OK." Quote from the Boston Herald via Yahoo!
Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews will have family in Sochi despite concerns citing their families can make their own decisions and take their own risks.