Avalanche's Jost, Girard unlikely to play at WJHC

Canada's world junior team is unlikely to get a helping hand from the Colorado Avalanche.

Both Tyson Jost - who suited up for Canada last year - and Samuel Girard are eligible to play in this year's tournament, and while neither have discussed being loaned to the team with general manager Joe Sakic, head coach Jared Bednar insists he would oppose the decision.

"It's not up to me, but if it were I'd say no. They're part of our team and we need them," Bednar said, according to Mike Chambers of the Denver Post.

The other big factor is that neither player has discussed playing for Canada - who named their selection camp roster Wednesday - and while it would be an honor, Jost admits he's focused on playing with the Avalanche.

"I'm just getting in my groove after being hurt so long," Jost said. "I want to be here. Hockey Canada, whenever you can represent your country, it's such an honor. I had my chance last year. Right now, honestly, I'm just focusing on playing on the Avs, focusing on earning the coach's trust and put up numbers. Obviously, I haven't been doing that and I'm trying not to get frustrated because I'm getting my chances and getting that opportunity. It will come. That's what I'm focused on right now and just getting in this rhythm."

Last year, Jost scored one goal and four points en route to a silver medal. This year, he's put up a goal and an assist in 11 games with the Avalanche, while Girard has five points in 18 combined games with the Avalanche and Nashville Predators.

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