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Caleb Desnoyers may not be a household name—yet—but among scouts and development staffs across the NHL, he’s quickly rising on radars. The 18-year-old Canadian forward has emerged as one of the most complete Winter Olympic ice hockey players in his age group. His game isn’t flashy, but it’s deliberate, structured, and mature beyond his years—hallmarks of someone built for long-term success at the professional level.

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Desnoyers plays a high-IQ brand of Winter Olympic ice hockey, often drawing comparisons to responsible two-way NHL centers like Bo Horvat or Phillip Danault. His blend of poise, positioning, and work ethic makes him stand out—not just in junior hockey but in international play as well. As NHL teams look for centers who can do more than score—who can defend, lead, and drive play—Desnoyers is ticking all the boxes.

Early Development and Junior Winter Olympic Ice Hockey Background

Born in Laval, Quebec, Caleb comes from a hockey family. His older brother, Elliot Desnoyers, is already in the Philadelphia Flyers system and made his NHL debut in 2023. That familial connection has shaped Caleb’s approach—not only in how he trains, but in how he mentally prepares for the rigors of competitive hockey.

He’s spent the last two seasons in the QMJHL with the Moncton Wildcats, where he’s shown consistent growth in both offensive output and defensive responsibility. While his point totals aren’t eye-popping compared to some flashier prospects, his underlying metrics tell a more revealing story. He regularly starts in the defensive zone, takes key faceoffs, and leads penalty-kill units—all signs of trust from coaching staffs. You Can Read Alexandre Texier Is the Only Blues Player Selected for the Winter Olympic 2026 First Six

In his draft year, Desnoyers put up 52 points in 68 games, including 20 goals. More importantly, he led his team in plus-minus and won over 56% of his faceoffs. Scouts took notice not only of the results, but how he achieved them—with effort, intelligence, and team-first play.

Strengths: Hockey IQ, Defensive Reliability, and Leadership

Desnoyers is not your typical teenage forward. What sets him apart is his situational awareness—his understanding of where to be, when to pressure, and how to make small plays that influence the game’s flow.

He anticipates well without the puck, often disrupting passing lanes or forcing turnovers by taking smart angles. In transition, he supports his defensemen deep in the zone and helps start controlled breakouts. Offensively, he doesn’t force plays. Instead, he reads defenders, makes calculated passes, and drives to the net when opportunities arise.

His leadership qualities have also been noted. Serving as assistant captain for Moncton this past season, Desnoyers was praised by coaches and teammates for his work ethic and consistency. He’s vocal on the bench and during practice and leads by example in the gym and in video sessions.

NHL Projection: Middle-Six Center with Shutdown Capability

While Desnoyers may not project as a top-line scorer or power-play quarterback, he brings immense value in a role that often goes underappreciated. In today’s NHL, where speed, structure, and matchup management matter more than ever, a player like Desnoyers has a clear path to a long career.

Scouts currently view him as a high-floor, medium-ceiling player. That means he’s likely to reach the NHL based on his well-rounded game, even if he doesn’t become a star. A dependable middle-six center who can play in all situations, log penalty kill minutes, and handle tough defensive assignments is something every contending team craves.

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Depending on how he continues to develop offensively, there’s also room for growth as a secondary scorer. He has a quick release and a knack for getting into high-danger scoring areas. If paired with faster or more dynamic wingers, his hockey sense could amplify his point totals at the next level.

Room for Growth: Acceleration, Puck Skills, and Confidence

While Desnoyers checks most of the pro-ready boxes, there are still areas for improvement. His straight-line speed is solid, but his first few strides could use more explosiveness. At the NHL level, being a half-step slow can mean losing a puck battle or being late to cover a passing lane.

Additionally, his puck-handling in tight spaces could be sharper. In junior play, he relies more on positioning and anticipation than stickhandling or deception to beat defenders. To excel against NHL-caliber competition, he’ll need to add more creativity to his game and continue refining his hands.

Confidence is another factor. Desnoyers sometimes defaults to the safe play when he has the chance to drive offense. Coaches love his discipline, but scouts have noted he could benefit from trusting his offensive instincts more—especially when it comes to shooting off the rush or attacking open ice with speed.

Winter Olympic Ice Hockey at the International Level: Desnoyers Holds His Own

Desnoyers also gained attention during his appearances with Team Canada at the U18 and U20 levels. In international play, he often took on a shutdown role—matching up against other countries’ top lines, killing penalties, and winning faceoffs under pressure.

These opportunities gave scouts a sense of how he fares against elite peers, and he passed the test. While he wasn’t the leading scorer, he was often praised as one of the most dependable players in Canada’s bottom six. His ability to adjust to different roles is a strong sign that he can transition smoothly into a support role on an NHL roster. If selected for the World Juniors this winter, Desnoyers will likely play a more prominent role. It would be an ideal stage for him to show improved offensive confidence and prove he can be more than a shutdown specialist.

Winter Olympic 2026: Comparison Somewhere Between Danault and Cirelli

Comparing prospects to NHL players is always imprecise, but Desnoyers draws realistic parallels to Phillip Danault of the Los Angeles Kings and Anthony Cirelli of the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Like Danault, Desnoyers is strong on draws, responsible in his own zone, and smart with the puck. Like Cirelli, he brings a relentless work ethic and a willingness to play in the hard areas. Both players have carved out top-six roles despite not being drafted as top scorers—proof that there’s a place for players who win the little battles. If Desnoyers continues on this trajectory, he could become a player that coaches deploy in every key situation—from closing out leads to shutting down top stars to stabilizing a line in a playoff series.

Winter Olympic 2026: Outlook a Solid Bet in the 2024 NHL Draft

Desnoyers is expected to be selected in the second or third round of the 2024 NHL Draft. He may not carry the highlight-reel upside of a top-10 pick, but he offers a level of maturity and reliability that NHL general managers value deeply—especially in playoff-caliber organizations.

Whichever team drafts him will be adding a player with leadership potential, a team-first mindset, and the foundational tools to become a long-term contributor. With the right development path, Desnoyers could be NHL-ready in two to three seasons. His future might not come with fanfare, but his impact—like his game—will be undeniable.

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Zemgus Girgensons is no stranger to the international spotlight. Now, the longtime Buffalo Sabres forward is set for another major turn on the global stage as Latvia has named him among its first six selections for the Olympic ice hockey tournament in Winter Olympic Milano Cortina 2026. It’s a powerful statement—not just about what Girgensons has accomplished, but what he still means to Latvian Winter Olympic ice hockey.

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The 30-year-old has represented Latvia for over a decade, beginning with his debut at the 2013 IIHF World Championship. He played at the Sochi 2014 Olympics as a promising 20-year-old, but the subsequent Olympic cycles either saw Latvia miss out or lacked NHL participation. Now, with NHL players returning to Olympic ice for the first time since 2014, Girgensons gets a rare and meaningful second shot. For a player who has never been defined by goals or assists, Girgensons has built a career on reliability, physicality, and loyalty. Latvia’s inclusion of him among the “early six” is a nod to everything he’s brought to the national team across more than a decade—and to what he still offers in Winter Olympic 2026.

Latvia’s Winter Olympic ice hockey Identity Strengthened by Leadership and Loyalty

Alongside Girgensons, Latvia’s early six for Milano Cortina features an all-around blend of experience and form. Forwards Rudolfs Balcers and Miks Indrašis, defensemen Kristaps Zīle and Ralfs Freibergs, and NHL goaltender Elvis Merzļikins round out the list. Each brings a distinct skillset—but all share a fierce dedication to Latvian Winter Olympic ice hockey.

In naming their first six players early—well ahead of the final roster deadline—Latvia signals confidence in their leadership core. These players will form the foundation of their Olympic effort, setting the tone for team culture, tactical systems, and work ethic. You Can Read Alexandre Texier Is the Only Blues Player Selected for the Winter Olympic 2026 First Six

Girgensons, in particular, embodies Latvia’s identity. Not flashy, but relentless. Not loud, but impactful. His return signals continuity from Latvia’s past to its present—a bridge between generations, and a trusted voice in the locker room. This early selection is also symbolic. Girgensons, who played through injury and adversity with the Sabres, could have stepped away from international play. Instead, he’s embraced it again—just as he has throughout his career.

Winter Olympic Ice Hockey Returns—and Girgensons Embraces One Final Shot

The Winter Olympic 2026 will mark the return of NHL players to the Winter Olympic Games for the first time in 12 years. With the league skipping both PyeongChang 2018 and Beijing 2022 due to scheduling disputes and pandemic-related challenges, players like Girgensons missed out on critical Olympic years.

For many NHL veterans, this return represents one last chance. And for smaller nations like Latvia, the NHL’s return changes the equation. Suddenly, the depth chart deepens. The margin for error narrows. But the chance to play against the world’s best becomes a true motivator.

Girgensons may not command headlines like Auston Matthews or Connor McDavid, but in a tournament defined by team cohesion and defensive discipline, his role is vital. He’ll likely center a key checking line, play penalty kill minutes, and handle faceoffs in crunch time. The Olympics aren’t about padding stats—they’re about winning moments. And Girgensons thrives in those.

Latvia’s Rise Is No Longer a Surprise

Latvia’s bronze medal run at the 2023 IIHF World Championship changed perceptions worldwide. No longer were they just a gritty underdog. They were medal contenders—capable of defeating top-tier nations through organization, structure, and unshakable belief.

That breakthrough tournament—highlighted by wins over Sweden and the United States—was the culmination of years of growth. Investments in youth development, coaching infrastructure, and international competition have helped Latvia become a team that nobody underestimates.

Girgensons’ presence at Milano Cortina will serve as a living link to that 2023 success and beyond. Though he wasn’t part of that exact roster due to injury, his influence on the culture—his work ethic, his consistency—echoed through that team. Now, he rejoins the national fold not as a hopeful prospect, but as an elder statesman with the chance to guide Latvia through what could be their most meaningful Olympic performance to date.

 Latvia’s Next Generation Will Lean on Girgensons’ Experience

The Latvian roster for Winter Olympic Milano Cortina 2026 will undoubtedly include several young players making their Olympic debuts. NHL talents like Uvis Balinskis (Florida Panthers) and Dans Ločmelis (a Bruins prospect in Sweden) could be part of that next generation. But they’ll need guidance.

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That’s where Girgensons comes in. He has been through the battles—both at the NHL level and internationally. Playing for Latvia when the odds are stacked is something he understands deeply. Leading by example and managing the emotional weight of big moments are part of what makes him invaluable. For younger teammates, having a player like Girgensons in the locker room is invaluable. He’s calm when the pressure rises. He’s selfless when roles shift. And he never forgets what the crest on the front of the jersey means.

Winter Olympic Ice Hockey Could Be Girgensons’ Last Global Chapter

There’s a quiet possibility that this Olympic appearance will be Girgensons’ last with the national team. After more than a decade in the NHL, and with his current contract nearing its end, retirement or a reduced role may be on the horizon. If so, what a fitting way to go out: representing Latvia on the Olympic stage, perhaps for the final time, and helping write a new chapter in the nation’s Winter Olympic ice hockey history.

This isn’t just about personal legacy—it’s about national legacy. For Girgensons, who was once voted to the NHL All-Star Game by a massive outpouring of support from Latvian fans, the connection between player and country has always been strong. Milano Cortina may be the final crescendo of a relationship built on mutual pride and perseverance.

Latvia’s Winter Olympic Ice Hockey Story Is One of Passion and Possibility

Latvia’s journey in international hockey is, at its heart, a story of passion. It’s a story of a small nation that never backs down. They are the players who travel the world to represent home. Families crowd around TVs to watch shootouts against giants. And sometimes, a bronze medal feels like gold.

And in that story, Zemgus Girgensons has been a central character. Whether Latvia wins another medal or falls short, his presence in Winter Olympic 2026 will be symbolic. A reminder of what’s possible when pride meets preparation. A celebration of a player who never forgot where he came from. And above all, a signal to the next generation: Latvia belongs on the Winter Olympic ice hockey stage—and it’s staying there.

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Brad Marchand isn’t known for being shy—on or off the ice. The Florida Panthers veteran forward, who has long been one of the NHL’s most polarizing figures, recently made headlines with a bold and heartfelt admission about his hopes of suiting up for Team Canada at the Winter Olympic Milano Cortina 2026. For a player who was controversially left off past Olympic rosters despite his elite play, Marchand’s comments represent more than just personal ambition—they reflect the hunger of a seasoned competitor eager to prove his worth on the biggest international stage.

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Speaking to reporters after a practice session during the Stanley Cup Playoffs, Marchand stated, I’ve wanted this for a long time. I want to represent Canada again. I think I can help. This isn’t just about me—it’s about wearing that jersey and knowing what it means. The remarks sent ripples through the Canadian Winter Olympic Ice hockey community, sparking debate over who deserves a spot on what is likely to be one of the most stacked rosters in Olympic history.

Winter Olympic Ice Hockey Comeback: Why Marchand’s Timing Matters

The NHL is officially returning to the Winter Olympic 2026, following a hiatus in 2018 and the COVID-impacted 2022 cycle. That means a new generation of NHL talent—many of whom have never had the chance to wear their national colors at the Olympic Games—will finally get their opportunity.

For Marchand, who will be 37 by the time the puck drops in Italy, this may be his last realistic shot at Olympic glory. His last major outing in a Team Canada jersey was the 2016 World Cup of Winter Olympic Ice Hockey, where he was dominant on a line with Sidney Crosby and Patrice Bergeron. Since then, he’s only improved, developing into one of the most complete wingers in the league. You Can Read Alexandre Texier Is the Only Blues Player Selected for the Winter Olympic 2026 First Six

His blend of scoring touch, defensive responsibility, and relentless edge makes him a unique asset. In a tournament where every shift matters and roles must be clearly defined, Marchand believes his experience and intensity could make the difference.

Winter Olympic Ice Hockey Changing Guard: Can Marchand Make the Cut?

Canada’s forward pool for the Winter Olympic 2026 is nothing short of spectacular. Names like Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, Sidney Crosby, Mitch Marner, Brayden Point, and Leon Draisaitl (if eligible under IIHF rules) crowd the conversation. Youth is another factor—players like Connor Bedard and Adam Fantilli will be in the mix, bringing explosive upside.

So where does Marchand fit in? His style of play aligns perfectly with Olympic ice hockey, where the larger international rink and compressed tournament format reward high IQ, pace, and tenacity. Marchand is no longer just a pest who gets under opponents’ skin—he’s a proven scorer with leadership credentials and a two-way game trusted by coaches in high-stakes situations.

While some critics point to his age as a red flag, others argue that few players have his experience, especially in best-on-best competition. Age is just a number, Marchand quipped. If you can still play at a high level—and I believe I am—you should be in the conversation.

Team Canada’s Winter Olympic Ice Hockey Identity: Grit Still Matters

Canada has often leaned on skill-first rosters in recent tournaments, but the Olympics demand a balance of firepower and grit. Marchand brings both. In fact, the line he formed with Crosby and Bergeron during the 2016 World Cup of Hockey is remembered as one of the most dominant in recent Canadian history—relentless on the forecheck, stifling defensively, and lethal offensively.

What Marchand offers is the kind of depth and versatility that winning teams require. He can kill penalties, create havoc in front of the net, draw penalties, and frustrate the opposition—all while putting up points. In a short tournament where roles are crucial, that might be more valuable than adding one more purely offensive winger.

His past chemistry with players like Crosby could also work in his favor, especially if Hockey Canada prioritizes cohesion and familiarity in building its lines. We had something special, Marchand recalled of that 2016 trio. I’d love the chance to do that again, on the Olympic stage.

A Panthers Resurgence and Marchand’s Continued Impact

Though better known for his years with the Boston Bruins, Marchand’s recent move to the Florida Panthers has reinvigorated his game. Playing alongside younger stars in a fast-pace system, he’s manage to maintain his production and influence, even as he transitions into the later stages of his career.

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This continued high-level performance is central to his Olympic case. As long as Marchand remains a top-six contributor on a playoff-contending NHL team, it’s difficult to argue he doesn’t at least deserve consideration. His durability, in particular, has been noteworthy. Despite his physical playing style, he’s rarely miss extend time due to injury and continues to log heavy minutes. Panthers head coach Paul Maurice weighed in recently, saying, Brad’s as competitive as they come. If you’re building a team to win in a short tournament, he’s one of the guys you want on your side. Full stop.

Winter Olympic Ice Hockey Legacies: Marchand’s International Chapter Isn’t Over

Marchand’s international résumé already includes gold medals at the IIHF World Championship and the aforementioned World Cup, but the Olympics remain elusive. For players of his caliber, the Winter Olympic Games are a chance to cement legacies—not just in NHL history, but in the broader annals of Canadian sports.

It’s also worth noting that Marchand’s journey has been far from conventional. Once dismissed as merely an agitator, he’s transform into one of the most productive wingers of his generation. Olympic selection would be a crowning achievement on a career defined by defying expectations. Growing up in Nova Scotia, you dream of the Olympics, Marchand said. It’s the one tournament that’s about more than just hockey—it’s about representing something bigger than yourself. That’s the dream.

Final Thoughts: A Spot Worth Fighting For

Whether or not Brad Marchand ultimately makes Team Canada’s Olympic roster, his desire and drive are undeniable. His candid comments have reignited discussion around what it takes to build a championship-caliber Olympic squad—and whether veteran presence and intangibles should outweigh raw scoring stats.

Hockey Canada has a difficult task ahead, trying to assemble a roster that blends elite youth with proven experience. Marchand’s resume, attitude, and current form make a compelling case that he deserves to be in that conversation. One thing is certain: if Marchand gets the call, he won’t take it for granted. It’s not about the name on the back, he said. It’s about the flag on the front. And I’d do anything to wear it again.

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The initial six-man Olympic roster announcements for the Winter Olympic Milano Cortina 2026 games are already generating buzz across the ice hockey world. Among them, France’s early picks revealed something both expected and exceptional: Alexandre Texier is the lone representative from the NHL’s St. Louis Blues. For Texier, a dynamic forward known for his versatility and two-way play, the selection underscores both his individual growth and his unique role as a bridge between French Winter Olympic ice hockey and the NHL.

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Texier’s inclusion in France’s preliminary Olympic roster is a point of pride for his national team, but also a notable footnote for the Blues. In a league full of Olympic hopefuls, the fact that he’s the only St. Louis player currently name to an Olympic team signals both the rising stock of the 24-year-old forward and a quieter international year for the Blues organization.

Winter Olympic 2026: A Career Defined by Adaptability

Texier’s journey to this point has been anything but conventional. Born in Grenoble, France, he first made waves in the French Ligue Magnus before moving on to the Finnish Liiga, where he sharpened his game against tougher competition. His strong performances overseas led the Columbus Blue Jackets to draft him in the second round of the 2017 NHL Entry Draft. He made his NHL debut in 2019 and quickly became known for his speed, puck pursuit, and forechecking tenacity.

Since being traded to the St. Louis Blues, Texier has quietly evolved into a dependable middle-six forward. He’s rarely the flashiest player on the ice, but his ability to play both center and wing, kill penalties, and step up in key moments makes him invaluable to coaches and teammates alike. It’s those very attributes—versatility, responsibility, and energy—that likely earned him his place on France’s Winter Olympic six. You Can Read Winter Olympic 2026: Jonathan Toews Eyes NHL Comeback as Avalanche Lead Olympic Ice Hockey Pursuit

Leadership and Legacy – Texier Anchors France’s First Six Olympic Vision

The First Six Olympic selections are a relatively new tradition in international hockey. Teams announce a small group of foundational player’s months in advance, often their top-line stars or leadership core. These early picks are symbolic—they’re not just about performance, but about identity and trust. Being named to the first six means the coaching staff sees you as central to the team’s Olympic ambitions.

For Texier, this is both an honor and a challenge. France is not historically a major player on the Winter Olympic ice hockey stage. While the national team has qualified for previous Games, including in 2002 and 2018 (when NHL players didn’t participate), the squad has often struggled against deeper, more experienced nations. Texier, then, is not just a talented forward—he’s part of a new generation expected to elevate French Winter Olympic ice hockey’s profile on the world stage.

A Lone Blue in a Global Tournament

What’s equally interesting is that Texier is, at this stage, the only St. Louis Blues player named to any country’s Olympic first six. While it’s still early and many national teams have yet to finalize their full rosters, this development offers insight into both Texier’s international status and the current talent makeup of the Blues.

In past years, the Blues have boasted a strong international presence—think Vladimir Tarasenko with Russia, David Perron for Canada, and Jori Lehterä with Finland. But this time around, the franchise seems poised to be less represented, at least at the outset. This could change in the coming months, especially if players like Robert Thomas, Jordan Kyrou, or Colton Parayko put together strong starts to the 2025–26 NHL season.

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Still, Texier standing alone as the Blues’ only early Olympic selection speaks volumes. It shows the faith the French federation has in his leadership and consistency, and it subtly highlights the need for St. Louis to develop more international-caliber stars moving forward.

Winter Olympic Ice Hockey Spotlight – Texier Poised to Lead Underdog France on Olympic Ice

For Texier, the upcoming Winter Olympic could mark a milestone in both his personal and professional career. Though he’s represented France at various levels in international tournaments, this would be his first Winter Olympic appearance, and it comes at a time when his maturity and on-ice intelligence have never been higher.

He’s likely to take on a top-line role for Team France—perhaps even centering their first unit—and will be heavily leaned upon in both even-strength and special team’s situations. This responsibility mirrors the one he’s carved out in the NHL: not always the most publicized player, but one who plays winning Winter Olympic Ice hockey in the details.

France will enter the tournament as an underdog in most matchups, particularly against traditional powerhouses like Canada, Sweden, Finland, and the United States. But the presence of NHL talent like Texier gives them a fighting chance to pull off surprises. His experience in the NHL’s grind, battling top-tier defender’s night after night, should serve him well in the Olympic group stage.

Bridging Two Worlds

Texier occupies a unique place in the hockey world: he’s one of only a few French-born players who have made a sustained impact in the NHL. That gives him influence beyond the box score. In France, where hockey trails far behind football and rugby in national popularity, Texier is becoming a standard-bearer for what’s possible. His Olympic presence could help grow the sport at home, inspire youth development, and foster stronger connections between French clubs and international systems.

In the NHL, he represents the global diversity the league increasingly values. His career path—from Grenoble to Helsinki to Columbus and now St. Louis—reflects the winding, increasingly international road many players must take. That perspective adds a layer of leadership to his game that coaches and executives appreciate.

Winter Olympic 2026: What It Means for the Blues

From the St. Louis Blues’ perspective, Texier’s Olympic selection is a bright spot in what may be a transitional year. The franchise is balancing veteran contracts with the development of younger players, and there’s a growing focus on establishing a long-term core that can return them to contention. Players like Texier, who bring flexibility, compete level, and international pedigree, are essential to that vision.

It also puts Texier in a leadership position within the locker room. Representing one’s country on the Olympic stage is no small feat, and his experience in Milan-Cortina—regardless of results—will be something he can bring back to St. Louis as a growth point. Younger teammates, especially those still finding their place in the league, may look to him as proof of what dedication and adaptability can earn.

Winter Olympic Perspective – Texier’s Selection Symbolizes More Than Just Skill

With the Winter Olympic Games still months away and full rosters yet to be revealed, Texier’s inclusion in the first six is both a recognition of his journey and a sign of what’s to come. For France, he’s a cornerstone. For the Blues, he’s a quietly rising asset. And for the broader hockey world, he’s a reminder that talent can come from anywhere—and rise to meet the biggest stages.

As more national teams release their initial rosters, Texier’s name stands out not just for his skill, but for what it represents: perseverance, progression, and the expanding global reach of the game. In Milan-Cortina, he won’t just be playing for France or for the St. Louis Blues. He’ll be skating for the idea that borders don’t limit greatness, and that sometimes, the lone name on a list says the most.

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