Why Brad Marchand isn't playing today for Team Canada in Olympics

Team Canada isn't getting much rest.

The Canadian men's hockey team opened its Olympic competition just more than 24 hours ago, and on Friday, Canada is right back in action against Switzerland.

That has led to multiple changes in the lineup.

Thursday's goalie who had a shutout, Jordan Binnington, isn't even dressed.

Neither is Brad Marchand.

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Why isn't Brad Marchand playing today?

Marchand is simply getting a rest.

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The 37-year old Marchand is crucial to Canada's chances of winning a gold medal. But for the second game of preliminary action, there's no reason to risk it.

NHL players do play back-to-back, so this isn't an unheard-of scenario.

By sitting Marchand, though, Canada gets Jarvis his first Olympic action, too, which is a cool bonus.

Marchand will surely be back soon. For now, he can recharge and get ready for a hoped-for medal run to come.

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