Justin Faulk named to Team USA for World Cup...or not

Justin Faulk's surprising omission from Team USA's preliminary roster for the World Cup of Hockey was rectified Friday afternoon, as USA Hockey announced that Faulk would be one of the final additions to the roster to compete in the tournament in Toronto in September.

The 24-year-old defenseman, who had a brilliant start to the 2015-16 season before a leg injury slowed him considerably following his selection to February's All-Star Game in Nashville, was one of seven players to earn their ticket to Toronto when coach John Tortorella finalized his roster. Faulk set a Hurricanes record with 12 power play goals, tied for eighth in the NHL, and behind only Shea Weber among defensemen.

Faulk did not participate in the recent World Championships, but his pedigree with USA Hockey and his largely successful NHL season made him an obvious choice to join the American World Cup team.

Commenting on Faulk's inclusion, general manager Dean Lombardi said {QUOTE GOES HERE}. Tortorella, who saw Faulk multiple times in the NHL as coach of the division rival Columbus Blue Jackets, added {QUOTE GOES HERE}.

The World Cup begins on September 17, with the USA facing Team Europe in the first game of the tournament. Since Faulk will be in Toronto, he will miss most of the Canes' preseason training camp, a small price to pay for a well earned recognition as one of the best American defensemen in the NHL.

Never mind. Faulk didn't make the team. As you were. Go Team North America.