John Tavares’ name surfacing in Olympic conversations has sparked a wave of mixed reactions, not because he isn’t respected, but because he’s one of the most complicated players to evaluate for a best-on-best roster. When The Hockey News confirmed he was among the invitees to Canada’s 2026 Olympic orientation camp, the debate lit up again.

On one hand, Tavares brings leadership, playoff experience, and a track record of producing in high-pressure situations. Even as his game evolves, he remains one of the NHL’s most reliable forwards below the dots. He is strong on puck protection, dangerous around the net, and still a major asset on the power play.

Pieces from Yahoo Sports point out that his consistency and hockey IQ make him a legitimate candidate even if he is not the fastest option available.

Screenshot via @PuckReportNHL on X

Fans are much more divided, especially when it comes to Canada’s center depth. The competition is steep: McDavid, Crosby, MacKinnon, Point, Stamkos (if he plays center), O’Reilly in a shutdown role, and younger high-speed options like Cozens and Suzuki. This is where skepticism really picks up.

A Reddit user captured the sentiment clearly:
“As much as I respect Tavares, don’t think he will make it unless he has an insanely hot start to the season. Canada just has too much center depth and his foot speed isn’t great for international ice.” (r/leafs thread)

Other commenters worry he will get overshadowed by younger and faster players in a tournament played on larger ice. Some fans argue the opposite and believe he is exactly the type of veteran who can anchor a reliable third line or bring stability to a power-play unit.

What makes this conversation interesting is that Tavares is not a controversial figure. He is respected, well-liked, and consistently viewed as a professional who brings value wherever he plays. The debate is less about him and more about the type of roster Team Canada needs.

Screenshot via @mapleleafs on Instagram

Should the focus be elite speed, experience, chemistry, faceoff strength, or defensive reliability? Depending on how he performs early this season, he could realistically play himself into the conversation or slip behind other candidates.

What do you think? Should Tavares make Team Canada if he keeps producing, or is the competition at center simply too strong?

Drop your thoughts in the comments or share this post to keep the conversation going.