I imagine it was so they could use GM Place without the effort and expense of converting the ice to international dimensions and back again in the middle of the Canucks’ season.
It’s interesting, because I’m pretty sure the ‘88 Olympics were played on international ice even though they were also played in an NHL arena - this year is only the second time the Winter Olympics have been in an NHL town. Of course, the Saddledome was specifically built as an Olympic venue, but I still wonder what the Flames did during and around the time of the Olympics, since I’m pretty sure there was no Olympic break in those days and converting between international and NHL ice can’t be easy even in a rink built with that in mind.
Also, as a side note, I think they’re renaming GM Place something like “the Canada Hockey Center” for the duration of the Olympics because the IOC doesn’t allow sponsor names on venues.
You got everything just right! ;^)
Cost could have also figured into the reason for using existing ice rinks, and for leaving the size the way it is. Plus, most (if not all) of the players are NHL or AHL players.
No matter, it's going to be fun watching Crosby play against Malkin!
They are using GM Place.
Why do you think the Canucks have a 14 game road trip? :)