No one claims it's the perfect substitute for a Stanley Cup chase.

But what the heck — springtime hockey is springtime hockey — so Jay Bouwmeester is saying yes.

For the fourth time, the Calgary Flames defender will represent Canada at the world championship.

"I've gone in the past and it's a lot of fun when you get over there," Bouwmeester said Monday at the Scotiabank Saddledome.