Miracles, Odds, and Canadian Dominance: A 2010 Olympic Men’s Hockey Overview
19. Jan, 2010 
47 Comments
Peter Stenson
by Peter Stenson
If five-year-old Josh Sacco’s rehearsing of Herb Brook’s “miracle” speech doesn’t get you fired up for one of the best tournaments in the sporting calendar, you either don’t have a pulse or aren’t from a state covered in snow right now.
In less than a month, the 2010 Olympic Men’s Hockey Tournament will be underway at General Motors Place in Vancouver, Canada. The location for the tournament is significant, not only because Canadians love hockey like Joey Chestnut loves hotdogs dunked in water, but also because it marks the first time in Olympic history when the hockey games will be played on a smaller NHL-sized rink instead of the traditional Olympic-sized sheet of ice. This may serve to level the playing field, or at least clog up the neutral zone, which could result in the long-shot nations having a chance against the Canadian and Russian powerhouses. Or it may just result in a more boring style of play.
That being said, I do not see any miracles unfolding in this tournament.
According to Oddsmaker.com, Team Canada is a virtual lock to win in Vancouver with a measly +100 line. From top to bottom, the Canadian roster is the who’s who of the NHL. Starting in net, Marin Brodeur, the NHL career shutout leader, will more than likely get the start. If he falters, Vancouver Canuck Roberto Luongo will get the nod. Moving to the blue line, Chris Pronger and Scott Niedermayer will be reunited and provide a fierce one-two combo as they did in Anaheim. Up front, you can take your pick. Players like Sidney Crosby, Ryan Getzlaf, Dany Heatley, Jarome Iginla and Joe Thornton should be scoring at will. As of nearly halfway through the NHL season, five out of the top ten goal scorers will be wearing a Canadian jersey in February. That is simply ridiculous. They have power, finesse, grit, and style. The only way Canada does not win is if the gold-or-bust attitude demanded from them by the home ice fans acts like a noose around their necks.
Russia is predicted as a close second to Canada with a line of +220. The all-stars not on the Canadian line up, well, they are Russian. Perhaps with the most impressive list of forwards in the tournament, Russia will skate players like Alex Ovechkin, Ilya Kovalchuck, Evgeni Malkin and Pavel Datsyuk. When a player like Alexander Semin may be a third-liner, your chances are pretty good at gold. In net they have their choice between Evgeni Nabokov and Ilya Bryzgalov. The Achilles heel of Russia may be their defense. Other than Andrei Markov and Sergei Gonchar, Russia’s blue liners appear to be a little thin. The NHL-sized ice may also hinder the extraordinary hands and passing of many of the Russian snipers.
Defending champions, Sweden, also have a substantial shot at gold with a line of +400. Returning with 13 of 23 players from the gold medal team in 2006, Sweden boasts an impressive veteran-lead roster. Pretty much every red-bearded Detroit Red Wing will be wearing blue and gold jerseys this Olympics (Nicklas Lindstrom, Nicklas Kronwall, Tomas Holmstrom, Henrik Zetterberg). With these players, plus the playmaking of the Sedin twins, Sweden could very easily find themselves playing for a repeat championship. The major concern is how those aging legs will hold up deep into February.
Las Vegas apparently does not believe in miracles if they are giving Team USA a +1,000 line. A very young and fast USA team may prove to be a bit of a wildcard in the 2010 Olympics. With Ryan Miller, the NHL leader in save percentage and second in goals per game, in net, USA may be able to rustle some feathers if they play a close checking, defensively minded game. They have a solid blue line held down by Brooks Orpik, Brian Rafalski and Ryan Suter. Up front, players like Dustin Brown, Patrick Kane, Jamie Langenbrunner and Phil Kessel will provide a nice mix of grit and finesse. But is this enough firepower to contend?
The three remaining teams that could make some noise in Vancouver are Finland, Czech Republic, and Slovakia. Finland, the silver-medal winners in 2006, is built around the impressive goaltending tandem of Niklas Backstrom and Mikka Kiprusoff. With Olli Jokinen and the Koivu brothers, Finland has an outside shot at repeating their previous success. The Czech Republic will have plenty of goal scoring ability with Jaromir Jagr, David Krejci, Martin Havlat and Patrick Ellias. However, Tomas Vokoun’s erratic play in net could be their undoing. Rounding out the list of long shots is Slovakia, who like the Czech, have a dangerous forward line of Pavol Demitra, Marian Gaborik and Marian Hosa. Their fate rests with the Peter Budaj between the pipes.
So how does it all shake out? Who takes the podium, gold around their necks? I’m glad you asked.
Skipping to the quarterfinals, it looks like this – Canada over Germany, Sweden over Slovakia, Russia over Czech Republic, and USA squeaks by Finland.
In the semis, Canada proves too much for an inexperienced USA. In an upset, Sweden defeats Russia, the telekinetic passing of the Sedins paving the way.
For the gold? Canada destroys Sweden.
The USA gets the bronze against a disinterested Russian side.
So sit back, go to youtube and watch the five-year-old Sacco rally a nation, go rent Miracle, and wait. In less than a month it’s really the only two weeks out of every four years that matter.
Looks like you have done your research well Mr Stenson. I myself think that the Canadians are going to be a bust this year. I like Sweden and Russia in no particular order to win the Gold and Silver and I think the USA and Slovakia battle it out for Bronze.
In the quarterfinals – Canada handles Germany with ease, Slovakia takes out Sweden and answers the proverbial tree/forest question, Czech Republic beats Russia, and Finland sends the angry Americans back to their hotel with hammers.
Faced with the prospect of a semi-finals of: Canada/Finland and Slovakia/Czech Republic, NBC reformats to bring us 4 straight hours of Jay Leno
I am ready for the Olympic hockey. Canada was embarrassed last tournament, so you bet they want to win it on their home ice!! GO USA!!!!!
Although it’s hard to argue with Peter, and basically the rest of the world, I think Canada will choke with the home ice, and Sweden will defend. The Sedin brothers, in a way on their home ice, will be an overwhelming force, and with the unmentioned Henrik Lundquist in nets they’re my pick. Since I don’t believe in moral victories I won’t mention how “proud” we Americans can be that our young squad came out and played hard to finish with a meaningless bronze.
USA will surprise. Don’t take the easy route with picking Canada have some pride and come up with some reasons why the Americans will make a run.
USA! USA! USA!
USA found a way in the world juniors, why not in the olympics…
Peter I hate to say it but I think you better put the crack pipe down and re-evaluate your predictions.
Here is the way it is actually gonna happen:
Canada over Germany
Sweden over Solvakia
Russia over CZ Republic
Finland over USA
Canada over Finland
Russia over Sweden
Russia over Canada for the gold. (Ovechkin tournament MVP.)
Finland over Sweden for the bronze. (Koivu brothers light it up and decide to reunite next season in Minnesota. Ok that may also be a pipe dream.)
USA back home during the medal round with Patrick Kane punching out more cabbies over $0.10 or whatever.
You’re crazy if you think Russia beats Sweden. I didn’t even mention Capital’s Backstrom who will be skating with his blond-haired boys. No way Russia beats them.
As far as putting down the crack pipe…what happens on my own tim is my business!
The only thing I’m a little unsure about is USA over Finland. That was wishful thinking.
Lastly, Terry, why sell the Wild short with aging Miko? I have my sigts set on Kovalchcuk!
Canada isn’t going to choke, there not even going to flinch. Nobody has a chance against them except Russia, but the russian defense will be there down fall. Broduer will dazzle as usual, and our offense is way too potent for any other team to survive. USA will be lucky if they finish 6th overall, this miracle they keep talking about isn’t going to happen. Remember Americans, these were boys that played for you (1980). this time its men, NHL players to be exact. Your juniors were excellent, but thats as far as it goes-don’t worry we’ll meet again in Buffalo. (Next Juniors)
my predictions aren’t looking great with Canada vs. the Swiss last night. Jesus, Canada couldn’t buy a goal!
Remember the coach outlet provide coach bags which won’t be deteriorated into its overall styles by any means. It will maintain its looks, colors, and uniqueness for long time.If you do not know design can be the most fashionable this fall, consider a glance on coach factory outlet! This summer, you have a wide range of options, because there are numerous designs, you can find from.coach malls offer discounts for travel groups who are buying in bulk, while others may schedule special summer sidewalk sales to lure in locals and tourists.coach factory is the premier source to review all new Coach and other stylish brands of Handbags, Purses, and accessories to capture fabulous styles at even more fabulous prices.That is in case you are looking for authentic coach purses. In case you are wanting a fake Coach Tote or a replica Coach Tote, then you may find them elsewhere for less.The coach factory outlet has been in business for many years. You can log in to find more information about its products and services.I got to know it from my elder sister who owns enviable luxury Coach bags. coach outlet online Store is established to be your home shopping paradise.With the safe door to door shipping, the coach outlet will send the products to your hands, which are of top quality and at competitive factory prices.coach bags with fashion style and top quality succeed. In any occasions they are very suitable and appropriate for its precise and rich design.Coach New Signature BackPack Black-Beige is a useful backpack for outdoors activities. It’s convenient that you can freely take along with for travel,climbing and go for school.In our coach outlet,there are many graceful styles of Coach backpack for you.coach bags outlet is one of the four playable survivors in Left 4 Dead 2. He was a high school health teacher and coordinator for the freshman football team before the Infection hit his hometown of Savannah.It is so good and attractive as a result of being made by a stylish designer or more. None can say no in front of so popular and chic coach outlet handbags.On establishing contact with a coach outlet hire agency, a few clarifications would need to be put to rest prior to working out a deal.Regarding the craft, the goods from coach outlet online is tight, the seams are aligned and details emulate the designer’s actual handbags.The coach online has launched new Coach handbags which is made from Extra smooth patent leather, and that they are available in a wide range of chic collection and various colours and patterns.It has however getting confirmed how they insure the fact that merchandise you purchase will genuinely be reliable mentor product to coach outlet store.Remember the coach outlet provide coach bags which won’t be deteriorated into its overall styles by any means. It will maintain its looks, colors, and uniqueness for long time.I received the Coach purse I ordered at the coach outlet store yesterday.I like its fashionable style as well as fine workmanship very much.coach factory outlet has a big heart and a healthy appetite, and a wicked swing with a chainsaw. After a knee injury ended his career as a defensive lineman in college, Coach salvaged his Physical Education degree(barely)and landed a job teaching health at the local high school in his hometown of Savannah.At the coach outlet online Store, quality products and satisfying service are provided;High safety and prompt delivery is guaranteed.Here you can find the latest products in different kinds of coach bags making best materials.They are leisure practical products in the new generations.You know, Coach items are so perfect and fascinating. Now I grow up, and find coach outlet on the Internet offering affordable products with reliable quality.In the coach outlet online shop, a collection of high quality and hottest Coach Shoulder Bags is offered to you. They are all at the best prices you will ever find.Are you anxious to choose some of the brand bags? Are you searching for reliable sellers? When you come to the coach bags outlet, these are not problems.coach factory outlet offer excellent, elegant coach products in order to generate room for your new collections.They’re purchased more quickly that you may at any time imagine.coach outlet handbags You can not just save your cash but also your time inside a convenient way to obtain the exact same bags product and do not be concerned the shippment of one’s products.As long as you open our coach factory outlet webpage, you will view various Coach New Arrivals which are the most popular also the most fashionable in this year.This coach malls can’t be compared to other premium Outlets. It had improved so much through the years! I don’t know how to express deeply, great is the simple praise.
Buy cheap nike zoom kobe v, enjoy them 30%-70% Off.
Our shoes sneakers are real kobe iv shoes.
So if you want to be a fashion icon,kobe vi is the best choice.
To satisfy the needs of shoes users who want to convert kobe v for enjoyment.
zoom kobe v in the design and development, the use of more efficient models to reduce waste.
kobe shoes Shoes is the essential material needs in our life,it is the social civilization development product.
kobe zoom v are made for all types of people .
The nike kobe v is the most popular this year.
i believe you are a good writer, but have you erver thought to write some special artcals for peopel who likes shopping very much. for exaple, the artical about nike zoom kobe iv.
Thanks goodness I tried christian louboutin sale uk.
Come to our website, and choose cheap christian louboutin shoes sale online.
don’t hesitate,just come to our online shop to catch the opportunity once in the blue moon,to pick up and buy our christian louboutin sale.
We sales christian louboutin sales for the best prices .
discount christian louboutin on sale sell in a low price.FREE Shipping worldwide.
louboutin sales are made crafted and finished by hand. Materials are selected carefully.
Cheap Moncler jackets for men, women and children are available.
When we look at cheap chanel handbags chanel handbags sale , it is anything but cheap, so when we hear someone speak of Chanel Replica Handbags chanel handbag authentic , we feel as though we’ve overheard something in error. A company renowned for its unique products, Chanel has in recent times, launched a luxury line for the most desired range of leather chanel bags online Chanel Handbags and Purses .
Designed in elegant curved shapes with perfect styles, louis vuitton handbags of this summer will undoubtedly give you a shock.They will match all your summer dresses.louis vuitton bags using the most exclusive materials and state-of-the-art workmanship. The skilled artistry that goes into creating each product guarantees impeccable quality.
Designs of this season give you the unlimited cool feelings in this cool summer. The new designs of Coach products in the coach outlet enrich our daily life.The coach outlet store online are utilized for formal event in company area that will display your excellent taste.Not only does a briefcase make is easier to carry things.
I got the information of coach outlet online from my close friends. They often buy bags, purses and other accessories from this outlet.After graduating from university, my cousin came back to my hometown from USA last month. She told me that coach outlet store is very popular among her classmate.
For your consideration is the Cheap coach purses which is made in USA . It is crafted in traditional monogram canvas and has natural cowhide leather.Bright colors, exquisite workmanship, durable material and up-to-date style all lead to the great fame of the goods in coach outlet.
coach outlet store online generally variety within the buying price of $120.00 in order to $450.00, however they perform possess little purses as well as scarfs which are below $100.00.Performed your coach outlet store, asked to choose solutions you want, encouraged explain in words it for your close friends.
Tiffany jewelry
jewelry stores
Tiffany wholesale
Jewelry wholesale
Tiffany Jewelry wholesale
Tiffany Jewelry outlet
wholesale Jewelry
golf products
golf products wholesale
wholesale golf products
golf equipment wholesale
wholesale golf equipment
golf clubs wholesale
wholesale golf clubs
golf clubs for sale
golf clubs cheap
golf equipment
golf clubs
golf clubs on sale
callaway golf clubs
Taylormade golf clubs
Ping golf clubs
golf set
bamboo fiber
bamboo fiber products
bamboo fiber towels
bamboo fiber clothing
bamboo fiber sheets
bamboo fiber bathrobe
IPL
IPL machine
RF
cavitation machine
diode laser
liposuction machine
derma roller
skin rejuvenation
patient monitor
fractional laser
beauty machine
beauty product
body shapping
medical equipment
medical machines
beauty equipment supplier
cavitation machine
beauty roller
beauty equipment manufacture
CO2 laser
pulse oximeter
finger pulse oximeter
skin care product
body slimming
laser
yag laser
cavitation
IPL hair removal
wrinkle removal
IPL equipment
Elight
beauty equipment
beauty instrument
beauty equipment supplier
slimming machine
skin tightening
laser machine
RF machine
hair removal
weight loss machine
skin roller
ultrasound
vacuum
fat reduction
Er glasses laser
ND yag laser
medical instrument
no needle mesotherapy
IPL laser
long pulse
face lift
derma roller
Here you can find the latest products in different kinds of coach outlet store online making best materials.They are leisure practical products in the new generations.coach outlet has become a popular shopping experience for consumers around the world, and a desirable distribution channel for manufacturer’s and retailers.
We are glad you come to join in our
louis vuitton outlet
online store, because the winter is upcoming now, Louis Vuitton released many new handbags to feedback our customers.Have you ever been attracted by the Louis Vuitton Earrings shown at the
louis vuitton sale
? Here is the exacte right place if you are looking for Louis Vuitton Replica Earrings.
coach factory outlet is famous for the discounts it offers. Latest coach purses and sunglasses can be purchased at discounted rates from this coach outlet store.There are some practical and beautiful items for sale at coach factory outlet online for your selection. Do not miss it and have one for a try.
Providing you’ve got a hair-trigger finger reaction, if you do find a louis vuitton uk that you want you’re in with a great chance of securing it.louis vuitton Store Online Handbags can also bring great accuracy as well as practical applicability and fashionable.
Isn’t it frustrating when armani watches outlet don’t advertise their prices? Whether it’s the one in KLCC, Starhill or the Garden you won’t find any price tags anywhere and sometimes, it can feel very embarrassing if you ask’how much?’Modern designs and faddish shapes make emporio armani watches enjoy high reputation around the world. Both ladies and gentlemen can possess the elegance and grace of Louis Vuitton products.
Beautifully handcrafted with 13mm blown glass beads, each with unique color combinations and designs, and complementary 5mm multifaceted cut Swarovski crystals, these hermes birkin are so adorable.Bezel-set hermes scarf are showcased in all their brilliance in the chic and timeless design of this tennis bracelet. Rhodium-plated metal bracelet with foldover clasp.
As we show below, louis vuitton outlet have a number of Louis Vuitton Earrings, louis vuitton replica handbags, in different styles for your selection.Certainly, nobody would argue, simply because several long-time wallet customers can agree with the fact, louis vuitton bags for sale delivers some thing now we have consistently yearned with regard to,as well as which usually we tend to despite the fact.
coach outlet online is surprisingly patient with Ellis’naive ways and defends him whenever Nick is negative or sarcastic toward him. Both are also native Georgians, which could contribute to their friendliness with each other.Getting your hands on coach outlet store online can be a hefty investment of hundreds of dollars.But do not despair,the Coach Outlet store could be the answer to your prayers.
woolrich
Come tutti sappiamo, il marchio Woolrich molto attenzione a effetto caldo, inoltre, il marchio Woolrich anche molto attenzione a materiali e colori che può farti completamente alla moda e tenere in caldo bene. Vuoi diventare il centro del pubblico? Si prega di prestare attenzione alla marca Woolrich serie che pricipalmente in vendita tutti i tipi di giubbotti Woolrich per le donne, Woolrich giubbotti uomo, bambini Woolrich giubbotti Woolrich e stivali e così via.
to continue doing so down the road too.
As temperature Moncler Snow Boots down in winter, snow and
heavy wind make it possible to help keep Moncler Bags warm outside door. Only shoes can’t stisfy people, what
These admirable and allusiveSilver Earrings wholesale bracelets nowPearl Earrings awning all sorts of acceptation and can be begin in abounding adornment boxes.earrings for women cheap No best a talisman, these bracelets can Gold Jewelry Setsauthority trinkets that authority appropriate acceptationPearl Jewelry Sets to the wearer of the bracelet.
ralph lauren à Rome Trend Few days Printemps-Eté 2012 de femmes libérées. ralph lauren2012 printemps et l’été l . a . série, inspirée par le thème de training course David Frankenheimer1966 dans le motion picture du réalisateur “Charlie Kamikaze” (Fantastic Prix). C’est not âge d’or dans l . a . voiture, tir à Monaco et d’autres célèbres web sites internationaux voiture de polo ralph lauren training course du motion picture. À glissière en métal, hoodie lâche, veste de moto moulants, des pantalons…… représente l . a . vitesse du type de mouvement et de interest partout dans l . a . série au printemps et en été.