Top Calgary Flames Player Not Allowed from Representing his Country After Failed Medical

The 2025 IIHF World Championships are just over a month away, and with so many NHLers already committed to playing for their country, this tournament is shaping up to be a good one.

Sure, Team Canada and Team USA will likely come in as heavy favourites, but that's not to underestimate any of the other countries participating, especially teams like Slovakia.

Unfortunately, one of their top players has now been ruled out of the tournament, as reports have now emerged stating that Calgary Flames forward Martin Pospisil will not be available for selection.

That is due to an injury that's been hampering him all season long, as the Flames medical staff officially won't allow him to compete at the tournament given that he's been battling injuries all season long.

This is a tough break for Pospisil, who has posted a fantastic 10 points in 10 career games representing Slovakia, and after posting 25 points in his second full NHL season, he was prepared to step up and be a key piece for their team at this tournament.

While he can score well at the international level, his game at the NHL has been all about his physicality, but given that he's got an increased role for Slovakia, he's relied upon as one of their key pieces in international play, so we'll hopefully see him again soon on that stage.

Unfortunately for the 25-year old, that now won't happen, but with the Olympic Games right around the corner, there's every chance that he gets to compete at that event, but for now, this is a tough break for Pospisil and Slovakia, who are one of the most intriguing teams in international hockey right now.