Starting a hockey game means nothing. Is the kid the #1 D? Does he run PP1? Get all the important minutes? If so, who cares who is on the ice for the anthem?

I agree for the most part. Ice time and playing in key situations means much, much more than starting. Also, sometimes coaches try to match certain players, so starting sometimes depends on what the other team is doing. That said, if your kid is truly a better player, I think coach should start him periodically. It may not mean a log overall, but it shows respect.