It's still a strong team, it's just that it would be stronger with NHL players. I think Canada, the USA, Russia and Sweden suffer from the lack of NHL most, but Russia (and Sweden to an extent) have some excellent talent in their home leagues they can use here. Basically, I'd say Canada is still a very good team, 2nd only to Russia (OAR) here. With NHL players, Canada is favourite but it's not a given that they would win (USA, Russia, Sweden or Finland could win gold). Without the NHL players Canada was favourite to get a medal with Sweden, USA and Finland, with OAR as much favourites as Canada would be in the former scenario.