Hurricanes quartet joins Team Canada

Team Canada has recruited four members of the Carolina Hurricanes for the upcoming world men's hockey championship in Moscow.

Team officials confirmed Friday that Carolina netminder Cam Ward, forwards Eric Staal and Justin Williams and defenceman Mike Commodore were named to the national squad.

The Hurricanes won the Stanley Cup last season, but were eliminated from playoff contention last week.

"The guys were all willing to come over," Team Canada rookie general manager Steve Yzerman said. "They have just been through the highest pressure situations and responded well.

"Their experience in those situations will be invaluable to us."

Defenceman Barret Jackman and forward Jamal Mayers, both from the St. Louis Blues, and forward Jason Chimera of the Columbus Blue Jackets also agreed to play for Canada, which opens the tournament against Germany on April 28.

Phoenix Coyotes captain Shane Doan, Blues defenceman Eric Brewer, Edmonton Oilers goaltender Dwayne Roloson and forwards Rick Nash of the Blue Jackets and Michael Cammalleri of the Los Angeles Kings committed to playing 10 days ago.

"We're kind of getting a clearer idea of what type of team it's going to be," Yzerman said. "I'm pretty comfortable with it."

Canada will be coached by Andy Murray of the Blues.