Jamie Nye: Barrett Hayton turned from zero to hero at world juniors

Good thing we didn’t kick Barrett Hayton off the team for an error in judgment or just being lost in the moment.

The outrage toward the captain of Canada’s world junior team was red-hot when he left his helmet on during the Russian anthem after a 6-0 loss in the round-robin.

Some wanted the ‘C’ ripped off his jersey or him sent home entirely. I’m glad those people don’t run the justice system or every crime may be life in prison.

Hayton is the captain for a reason, so to believe he intentionally left his helmet on out of disrespect is a bit unbelievable.

We’ve all been there; lost in thought, not realizing someone was talking to you, the light has turned green or you left the garage door open.

Hayton apologized and then showed what he was really made of and why he was given the ‘C’ in the first place. He led, learned, persevered, scored a big goal and then lifted a trophy to share with his team.

He’s a captain we should be proud of rather than one some were ashamed of a week ago.