Dustin Byfuglien on bubble for Team USA

Dustin Byfuglien has proven himself as one of the best power forwards in the NHL. But whether Team USA covets the beef that he brings to the wing position is still up in the air as Brian Burke is in the final stages of selecting the team that will compete in the Olympics in Vancouver. Article in the Chicago Sun Times HERE or partially pasted below.

The United States roster for the Winter Olympics in Vancouver won't be announced until Jan. 1 during the NHL Winter Classic in Boston, but U.S. general manager Brian Burke said most of the team was decided this week at a meeting of the six-man selection committee.

Burke said six players are competing for the final three spots on the 23-man roster, and at least one, Paul Gaustad of the Buffalo Sabres, wasn't at the summer orientation camp at Seven Bridges in Woodridge. The Hawks had two players, Patrick Kane and Dustin Byfuglien, at the orientation camp. Kane is considered a shoo-in to make the final cut, but Byfuglien is likely on the bubble.

''I haven't heard anything,'' Byfuglien said after Wednesday's morning skate. ''It'd be nice, but whatever happens, happens.''

Byfuglien had one of his best games Wednesday, highlighted by seven hits and four shots on goal.

''Buff had a strong game. He was very notable out there,'' coach Joel Quenneville said.

The Hawks also have Patrick Sharp, Duncan Keith, Brent Seabrook and Jonathan Toews vying to make Team Canada, and Marian Hossa figures to play for Slovakia. Those with an outside shot at making their respective Olympic teams are Tomas Kopecky (Slovakia) and Niklas Hjalmarsson (Sweden). Quenneville has talked with several selectors.