Dec 21, 2013; Columbus, OH, USA; Columbus Blue Jackets right wing Marian Gaborik (10) and Philadelphia Flyers center Brayden Schenn (10) battle for the puck during the first period at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russell LaBounty-USA TODAY Sports
First off, let me point out that Gaborik is currently out with a broken collar bone, and is slated to be back mid-February. Depending on how he heals, he may or may not be able to perform for his country (Slovakia) in Sochi.
However, Gaborik is a pretty easy choice for the Slovakian team. He has had a stellar NHL career, playing for the Wild, Rangers and Blue Jackets. He hasn’t had too much success in Columbus as of yet, but that is mostly due to injuries.
Between World Championships and World Junior Championships, Gaborik has represented Slovakia 13 times between 1998 and 2011. He won a bronze medal in the 1999 World Junior Championships.