Yes, finally the Stanley Cup Final starts tonight. So before the puck drops (and ahead of Bettman's State of the League address) here are some news and notes I meant to get to earlier.
Blog Note: The Reviews for the Conference Finals will be up within the next two days, I regret putting them off for this long.
While The Men Watch
I was going to do a full post on this after reading the ton of response (99% of it backlash) on CBC partnering with WTMW but that idea fell apart. Instead here is a quick Bad/Good look at the partnership:
The bad is that it demeans all females in the hockey community by stereotyping them as puck bunny who know nothing about the sport, which is sad since there are a lot of females who are really knowledgeable when it comes to hockey. It also takes away from the broadcasters and journalist who cover the sport for a living, since it portrays a "it doesn't take much" message in order to cover hockey, much less the STANLEY CUP FINAL!
The good (there is a bit of light in this dark tunnel) is that it might help create new fans for hockey. Stay with me on this: aside from the controversy it has created (which, if anyone who watches wrestling knows, controversy draws people in) the people who already follow the WTMW women might not know much about hockey and this will help draw them into the sport. It may not be the right way, but it's a way.
MacKinnon a No-Go
When I first read that Nathan MacKinnon (a.k.a The Second Coming of Crosby) is not able to partake in the Canada-Russia series in August because of an underage policy, I wanted a refund.
Joking, joking, I still want to see the series. Plus I'm in the process of getting season tickets for the Mooseheads, so there's that.
Back to the subject in hand, I get why there is such a policy (want guys to go through the system) but this is ridiculous. If the OHL has an "exceptional player" rule that allows someone to come into the league a year earlier than they should, then Hockey Canada should allow an exceptional talent (like MacKinnon) to not need to participate in the U-18 camp and be allowed to play in this series. There is a 99% chance he'll be on the World Junior team, so why not see how he will play against some of the guys that will be in that tournament.
The Weeks Champions
Congratulations to the Shawinigan Cataractes for winning the Memorial Cup
Congratulations to the Florida Everblades for winning the ECHL's Kelly Cup
Congratulations to Ryder Hesjedal for winning the Giro d'Italia (not hockey related, just a proud Canadian moment)
Tonight's Prediction
Los Angeles Kings 2
New Jersey Devils 3 (OT)
Both team's have had rest (the Kings had more), but travel is still an issue. The Devils haven't needed to board a plane since beating the Panthers in the opening round and should feel more at home than if they face anyone who wasn't the Flyers or Rangers. The Kings might not hang on to their undefeated road record for long.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
2012 NHL Playoff Predictions - Stanley Cup Final
Stanley Cup Final
(8) Los Angeles Kings vs. (6) New Jersey Devils
MDK: Los Angeles Kings
In this series I'm going for the LA Kings. The reason is they killed Vancouver in the first round and it tells me that the Kings will be unstoppable. Lets go Kings. WOOOOOOO!
BEK: Los Angeles Kings
This one is tough for me. On one hand, the Kings are damn-near unstoppable in these playoffs. On the other hand, I want to see Brodeur, Elias, and Sykora to have one last championship and to see Kovalchuk succeed. Overall though, the Kings had an easier time getting to this point and will be well rested. Final Prediction: Los Angeles in five.
After Round 3
MDK: 6-8
BEK: 7-7
Thursday, May 24, 2012
World Championship Update - Russian For Gold
That's the last of the pun I got for this tournament. And yes, this update is as late as Alex Semin at a press conference, but in this case we showed up.
Bronze Medal Game
Czech Republic 3
Finland 2
Czech Republic opened the scoring with a powerplay goal midway thorugh th first. Finland ties it up later on in the period, but the Czechs quickly striked back with two goals of their own. The second period wasn't too eventful, with only a penalty being called against each team (slash for Finland, dive for Czech Republic*). Finland was able to reduce the Czechs lead with a powerplay goal of their own, but it wasn't enough. The Czech Republic win their second bronze medal in a row.
*Must...restraint....self...from....European/diving joke....
Gold Medal Game
Russia 6
Slovakia 2
Th good news for Slovakia is that they scored 1:06 into the game. The bad news was that goal was their only lead of the game. Russia tied it up midway through the first. In the second period, it was all Russia. A 3-goal period was all Russia need as they took a 4-1 lead heading into the third, which was barely better for Slovakia. Russia and Slovakia swapped goals, and Malkin added insult to injury in the dying minutes as Russia wins its first goal medal since the tournament was held in Canada (2009). Russia also claimed the #1 spot in the world ranking.
Final Standings
1 (Gold) - Russia
2 (Silver) - Slovakia
3 (Bronze) - Czech Republic
4 - Finland
5 - Canada
6 - Sweden
7 - USA
8 - Norway
9 - France
10 - Latvia
11 - Switzerland
12 - Germany
13 - Denmark
14 - Belarus
15 (Relegated) - Italy
16 (Relegated) - Kazakhstan
Bronze Medal Game
Czech Republic 3
Finland 2
Czech Republic opened the scoring with a powerplay goal midway thorugh th first. Finland ties it up later on in the period, but the Czechs quickly striked back with two goals of their own. The second period wasn't too eventful, with only a penalty being called against each team (slash for Finland, dive for Czech Republic*). Finland was able to reduce the Czechs lead with a powerplay goal of their own, but it wasn't enough. The Czech Republic win their second bronze medal in a row.
*Must...restraint....self...from....European/diving joke....
Gold Medal Game
Russia 6
Slovakia 2
Th good news for Slovakia is that they scored 1:06 into the game. The bad news was that goal was their only lead of the game. Russia tied it up midway through the first. In the second period, it was all Russia. A 3-goal period was all Russia need as they took a 4-1 lead heading into the third, which was barely better for Slovakia. Russia and Slovakia swapped goals, and Malkin added insult to injury in the dying minutes as Russia wins its first goal medal since the tournament was held in Canada (2009). Russia also claimed the #1 spot in the world ranking.
Final Standings
1 (Gold) - Russia
2 (Silver) - Slovakia
3 (Bronze) - Czech Republic
4 - Finland
5 - Canada
6 - Sweden
7 - USA
8 - Norway
9 - France
10 - Latvia
11 - Switzerland
12 - Germany
13 - Denmark
14 - Belarus
15 (Relegated) - Italy
16 (Relegated) - Kazakhstan
Saturday, May 19, 2012
Saturday Night Hockey - Playoff Edition #6
To be honest I don't know why I continue this during the playoffs since I tend not to catch up on hockey news (non-game related) until Sunday, and then there are a 1000 more things that go on after that. But just like Cartman and "Faith Hill-ing"*, I don't let this feature die easily.
*That episode was on during the typing of this post, hence that analogy.
Lineup NOTables
That's right, I'm adding the World Championship matchups to this. Due to how short this tournament is, injured players tend to be sent home, so just the (expected) goalies.
Russia vs. Finland
Russia: Semyon Varlamov starts.
Finland: Petri Vehanen starts.
Czech Republic vs. Slovakia
Czech Republic: Jakub Kovar starts.
Slovakia: Jan Laco starts.
New York Rangers vs. New Jersey Devils
Rangers: Brandon Dubinsky (foot), Mats Aasen-Zuccerello (wrist) and Michael Sauer (concussion) are out. Henrik Lundqvist starts this afternoon.
Devils: Jaob Josefson (back) and Henrik Tallinder (leg) are out. Martin Brodeur will fill out the net.
*That episode was on during the typing of this post, hence that analogy.
Lineup NOTables
That's right, I'm adding the World Championship matchups to this. Due to how short this tournament is, injured players tend to be sent home, so just the (expected) goalies.
Russia vs. Finland
Russia: Semyon Varlamov starts.
Finland: Petri Vehanen starts.
Czech Republic vs. Slovakia
Czech Republic: Jakub Kovar starts.
Slovakia: Jan Laco starts.
New York Rangers vs. New Jersey Devils
Rangers: Brandon Dubinsky (foot), Mats Aasen-Zuccerello (wrist) and Michael Sauer (concussion) are out. Henrik Lundqvist starts this afternoon.
Devils: Jaob Josefson (back) and Henrik Tallinder (leg) are out. Martin Brodeur will fill out the net.
World Championship Update - Not As Swede As You Think
Now that all the group events (even the Quarter Finals) are over and the crossover games begin, it is a good time to look back at the events of the past two weeks. Here is the summary for Group S. All information from the IIHF website.
Round Robin Standings (Wins-OT Wins-OT Loss-Loss-Points-Goal Differential)
1. Russia 7 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 21 - +19
2. Sweden 6 - 0 - 0 - 1 - 18 - +14
3. Czech Republic 4 - 1 - 0 - 2 - 14 - +13
4. Norway 4 - 0 - 1 - 2 - 13 - +14
5. Latvia 2 - 0 - 0 - 5 - 6 - -8
6. Germany 2 - 0 - 0 - 5 - 6 - -17
7. Denmark 1 - 0 - 1 - 5 - 4 - -10
8. Italy 0 - 1 - 0 - 6 - 2 - -25
Quarter Finals
Russia 5
Norway 2
Sweden 3
Czech Republic 4
The Story For Each Team
Czech Republic
What surprised me about the Czechs: This was the first time Petr Nedved was playing for them in the World Championship. The last time he represented the Czech Republic internationally? the 1996 World Cup! What didn't surprise me about the Czechs: they won the expects games and lost to the usual teams. They started the tournament by shutting out Denmark 2-0 before losing to Sweden 4-1. Probably the toughest challenge for them was needing overtime to win over Norway. The Czechs against Latvia? Win. Against Italy? Shutout. Against Russia? well, as they say: in Soviet Russia, shutout gets you (translated: lost 2-0). The Czechs last round robin game was an 8-1 blow out against Germany. In the Quarter Finals they faced Sweden, getting the chance to revenge an earlier lost. The Czechs had a 2-1 lead after one and 3-2 after two. Sweden tied it up within the first minute of the third. With only 29 seconds left in regulation, Milan Michalek scored to put the Czechs ahead as they hung on for a 4-3 win. With the advancement to the Semi-Finals, the Czechs will move to being ranked #3 in the world with a chance to move up depending on how they finish. The Czechs also secure an automatic berth to the Olympics.
Denmark
Denmark was trying to survive for most of the tournament. They started off by getting shutout by the Czech Republic, losing in overtime to Italy, and failing to come back against Sweden. Denmark improved a bit from there, but still lost to Russia (3-1) and Germany (2-1). The only win Denmark had was a 2-0 shutout against Latvia. They ended the tournament losing to Norway 6-2. With their lone win, Denmark stays alive in the main competition. Denmark's ranking will likely fall one spot and they will have to qualify for the Olympics.
Germany
Germany started with a shutout against Italy, and was ineffective after that. They lost to Latvia after needing to come back and tie the game, got shut out by Russia, and beaten by Sweden. Germany did rebound with a 2-1 win over Denmark, but that was the last time they added to the win column. Germany finished the tournament by getting HAMMERED by Norway (12-4) and the Czech Republic (8-1). With their mediocre result, Germany will sink to #10 in the world ranking, meaning they just miss the cut to automatically qualify for the Olympics and will now have to qualify.
Italy
After losing 3-0 to Germany to start the tournament, Italy showed some promise as they beat Denmark 4-3 in overtime. They promise left quicker than it arrived as Latvia shut them out in their next game. Italy lost to Norway 6-2 in their next game, and that was the last time an Italian registered a point. Italy was shut out by the Czech Republic (6-0), Sweden (4-0) and Russia (4-0) to end the tournament. By finishing last in the group, Italy was been relegated to Division I Group A* and will have to qualify for the Olympics.
*Still find that Group A/B split being Division I-but-not-on-the same-level annoying.
Latvia
Dinamo Riga...I mean Latvia started the tournament off by losing to Russia (they did lead after the first period, so there's something positive). After that, they started a mini-winning streak, defeating Germany (3-2) and Italy (5-0). That was it for them winning though, as they lost to the Czech Republic 3-1 in their next game (they kept it tied through two, another positive!). Latvia ended the tournament goalless, being shut out by Norway (3-0), Denmark (2-0), and Sweden (4-0). Latvia will likely jump a couple spots up in the world rankings, but will still have to qualify for the Olympics.
Norway
The surprise team of this group. After Sweden, Russia, and the Czech Republic, the final playoff spot was up for grabs. Despite facing said teams in the beginning, Norway didn't go down lightly. They lost to Sweden 3-1, Russia 4-2, and the Czech Republic 4-3 in overtime. After that battle, it was smooth sailing for Norway. They easily beat Italy (6-2), Latvia (3-0), Germany (12-4), and Denmark (6-2) to finish the tournament one point behind third-place Czech Republic. The good times ended for Norway, as Russia gave them more than they could handle in the Quarter Finals (thanks to some help from Washington). Norway's result has them moving up to #8 in the world and an automatic berth in the Olympics.
Russia
Russia going undefeated this far? Well colour me unsurprised. Probably the only surprise is that they didn't blow out the weaker teams. After winning 5-2 against Latvia to start the tournament, they beat Norway, Germany, and Denmark by 2 goals. They didn't blow out a team until they faced Sweden and won 7-3. Russia finished the tournament with two straight shutouts (2-0 against the Czech Republic and 4-0 against Italy). Ovechkin and Semin joined the team soon after and helped Russia beat Norway 5-2 in the Quarter Finals and will now face Slovakia in the Semi-Finals. Russia will be ranked as #2 in the world (thanks to a Sweden lost) with a chance to either move up or down a spot depending on how they finish, and they get an automatic berth in the Olympics (they're hosting so they get in either way).
Sweden
Sweden started the tournament limiting Norway and Czech Republic to a goal each in their first two games. They got a bit of a scare as Denmark tried a late comeback but it fell short. Sweden won against Germany 5-2 before getting trounced by Russia 7-3. Sweden finished the tournament with a pair of 4-0 wins against Latvia and Italy. During that time, they added Hornqvist and Backstrom to their lineup. The Quarter Finals matchup against Czech Republic wasn't good for Sweden. They clawed back to tie it up after being down 3-1 before giving up the game winning goal with 29 seconds left in the game. Sweden will fall down to #5 in the world ranking but will be in the Olympics.
Power Rankings Fun
Now that the IIHF Power Rankings are becoming popular (about damn time!) lets take a look at the best lines for each team.
Czech Republic - Don’t forget, this kid Nedved was drafted ahead of Jagr (May 4)
Denmark - Spotting Sweden four goals was perhaps unwise (May 8)
Germany - Coulda used Uwe Krupp – on defence, that is (May 15)
Italy - Mr. Berlusconi, do you have any tips on how to score? (May 13)
Latvia - The only guarantee is our fans will be loud (May 4)
Norway - Our slogan is “Better than Iceland, worse than Sweden” (May 4)
Russia - This ranking really ticks Don Cherry off (May 15)
Sweden - Hey Loui, has anyone ever told you you're underrated? (May 8)
Round Robin Standings (Wins-OT Wins-OT Loss-Loss-Points-Goal Differential)
1. Russia 7 - 0 - 0 - 0 - 21 - +19
2. Sweden 6 - 0 - 0 - 1 - 18 - +14
3. Czech Republic 4 - 1 - 0 - 2 - 14 - +13
4. Norway 4 - 0 - 1 - 2 - 13 - +14
5. Latvia 2 - 0 - 0 - 5 - 6 - -8
6. Germany 2 - 0 - 0 - 5 - 6 - -17
7. Denmark 1 - 0 - 1 - 5 - 4 - -10
8. Italy 0 - 1 - 0 - 6 - 2 - -25
Quarter Finals
Russia 5
Norway 2
Sweden 3
Czech Republic 4
The Story For Each Team
Czech Republic
What surprised me about the Czechs: This was the first time Petr Nedved was playing for them in the World Championship. The last time he represented the Czech Republic internationally? the 1996 World Cup! What didn't surprise me about the Czechs: they won the expects games and lost to the usual teams. They started the tournament by shutting out Denmark 2-0 before losing to Sweden 4-1. Probably the toughest challenge for them was needing overtime to win over Norway. The Czechs against Latvia? Win. Against Italy? Shutout. Against Russia? well, as they say: in Soviet Russia, shutout gets you (translated: lost 2-0). The Czechs last round robin game was an 8-1 blow out against Germany. In the Quarter Finals they faced Sweden, getting the chance to revenge an earlier lost. The Czechs had a 2-1 lead after one and 3-2 after two. Sweden tied it up within the first minute of the third. With only 29 seconds left in regulation, Milan Michalek scored to put the Czechs ahead as they hung on for a 4-3 win. With the advancement to the Semi-Finals, the Czechs will move to being ranked #3 in the world with a chance to move up depending on how they finish. The Czechs also secure an automatic berth to the Olympics.
Denmark
Denmark was trying to survive for most of the tournament. They started off by getting shutout by the Czech Republic, losing in overtime to Italy, and failing to come back against Sweden. Denmark improved a bit from there, but still lost to Russia (3-1) and Germany (2-1). The only win Denmark had was a 2-0 shutout against Latvia. They ended the tournament losing to Norway 6-2. With their lone win, Denmark stays alive in the main competition. Denmark's ranking will likely fall one spot and they will have to qualify for the Olympics.
Germany
Germany started with a shutout against Italy, and was ineffective after that. They lost to Latvia after needing to come back and tie the game, got shut out by Russia, and beaten by Sweden. Germany did rebound with a 2-1 win over Denmark, but that was the last time they added to the win column. Germany finished the tournament by getting HAMMERED by Norway (12-4) and the Czech Republic (8-1). With their mediocre result, Germany will sink to #10 in the world ranking, meaning they just miss the cut to automatically qualify for the Olympics and will now have to qualify.
Italy
After losing 3-0 to Germany to start the tournament, Italy showed some promise as they beat Denmark 4-3 in overtime. They promise left quicker than it arrived as Latvia shut them out in their next game. Italy lost to Norway 6-2 in their next game, and that was the last time an Italian registered a point. Italy was shut out by the Czech Republic (6-0), Sweden (4-0) and Russia (4-0) to end the tournament. By finishing last in the group, Italy was been relegated to Division I Group A* and will have to qualify for the Olympics.
*Still find that Group A/B split being Division I-but-not-on-the same-level annoying.
Latvia
Dinamo Riga...I mean Latvia started the tournament off by losing to Russia (they did lead after the first period, so there's something positive). After that, they started a mini-winning streak, defeating Germany (3-2) and Italy (5-0). That was it for them winning though, as they lost to the Czech Republic 3-1 in their next game (they kept it tied through two, another positive!). Latvia ended the tournament goalless, being shut out by Norway (3-0), Denmark (2-0), and Sweden (4-0). Latvia will likely jump a couple spots up in the world rankings, but will still have to qualify for the Olympics.
Norway
The surprise team of this group. After Sweden, Russia, and the Czech Republic, the final playoff spot was up for grabs. Despite facing said teams in the beginning, Norway didn't go down lightly. They lost to Sweden 3-1, Russia 4-2, and the Czech Republic 4-3 in overtime. After that battle, it was smooth sailing for Norway. They easily beat Italy (6-2), Latvia (3-0), Germany (12-4), and Denmark (6-2) to finish the tournament one point behind third-place Czech Republic. The good times ended for Norway, as Russia gave them more than they could handle in the Quarter Finals (thanks to some help from Washington). Norway's result has them moving up to #8 in the world and an automatic berth in the Olympics.
Russia
Russia going undefeated this far? Well colour me unsurprised. Probably the only surprise is that they didn't blow out the weaker teams. After winning 5-2 against Latvia to start the tournament, they beat Norway, Germany, and Denmark by 2 goals. They didn't blow out a team until they faced Sweden and won 7-3. Russia finished the tournament with two straight shutouts (2-0 against the Czech Republic and 4-0 against Italy). Ovechkin and Semin joined the team soon after and helped Russia beat Norway 5-2 in the Quarter Finals and will now face Slovakia in the Semi-Finals. Russia will be ranked as #2 in the world (thanks to a Sweden lost) with a chance to either move up or down a spot depending on how they finish, and they get an automatic berth in the Olympics (they're hosting so they get in either way).
Sweden
Sweden started the tournament limiting Norway and Czech Republic to a goal each in their first two games. They got a bit of a scare as Denmark tried a late comeback but it fell short. Sweden won against Germany 5-2 before getting trounced by Russia 7-3. Sweden finished the tournament with a pair of 4-0 wins against Latvia and Italy. During that time, they added Hornqvist and Backstrom to their lineup. The Quarter Finals matchup against Czech Republic wasn't good for Sweden. They clawed back to tie it up after being down 3-1 before giving up the game winning goal with 29 seconds left in the game. Sweden will fall down to #5 in the world ranking but will be in the Olympics.
Power Rankings Fun
Now that the IIHF Power Rankings are becoming popular (about damn time!) lets take a look at the best lines for each team.
Czech Republic - Don’t forget, this kid Nedved was drafted ahead of Jagr (May 4)
Denmark - Spotting Sweden four goals was perhaps unwise (May 8)
Germany - Coulda used Uwe Krupp – on defence, that is (May 15)
Italy - Mr. Berlusconi, do you have any tips on how to score? (May 13)
Latvia - The only guarantee is our fans will be loud (May 4)
Norway - Our slogan is “Better than Iceland, worse than Sweden” (May 4)
Russia - This ranking really ticks Don Cherry off (May 15)
Sweden - Hey Loui, has anyone ever told you you're underrated? (May 8)
Friday, May 18, 2012
World Championship Update - What A Finnish
Now that all the group events (even the Quarter Finals) are over and the crossover games begin, it is a good time to look back at the events of the past two weeks. Here is the summary for Group H. All information from the IIHF website.
Round Robin Standings (Wins-OT Wins-OT Loss-Loss-Points-Goal Differential)
1. Canada 6 - 0 - 1 - 0 - 19 - +20
2. USA 4 - 2 - 0 - 1 - 16 - +15
3. Finland 5 - 0 - 0 - 2 - 15 - +7
4. Slovakia 5 - 0 - 0 - 2 - 15 - +8
5. France 3 - 0 - 0 - 4 - 9 - -11
6. Switzerland 2 - 0 - 0 - 5 - 6 - -5
7. Belarus 1 - 0 - 0 - 6 - 3 - -12
8. Kazakhstan 0 - 0 - 1 - 6 - 1 - -22
Quarter Finals
Canada 3
Slovakia 4
USA 2
Finland 3
The Story For Each Team
Belarus
To Belarus' credit, they did have relatively close games. After losing by a goal in their first 2 games (Finland and Switzerland), Belarus used a 3-goal second period against Kazakhstan to get their first (and only) win. They got back on the losing train the next game by giving up 5 goals to the USA. The Kostitsyn's joined the team afterwards while long-time national team goalie Andrei Mezin left the team due to lack of playing time. Belarus end up losing their next game against Slovakia 5-1. Belarus had a lead after one period against France, but blew it in the second and lost it in the third. Their last game of the tournament was against Canada, and was pretty eventful. Not only did they lose 5-1, but they lost both Kostitsyns - Andrei to a game misconduct and Sergei to a shoulder injury. Their result has kept them in the World Championship for next year, but they will have to go through a qualifying tournament next February in order to play in the Olympics.
Canada
The tournament started rough for Canada as they squeaked out a victory against Slovakia and lost a heart breaker in overtime against the USA. Then Canada blew out France 7-2, which is only impressive since Getzlaf, Perry, and Benn were hungover. Canada continued to struggle as they just got by Switzerland and needed to come back against Finland. They finished up the tournament blowing out Kazakhstan (8-0) and Belarus (5-1). The Belarus game was not without incident as Luke Scheen and Marc Methot both got boarding calls late in the game. Methot ended up being suspended for the Quarter Finals game. The re-match against Slovakia ended with Getzlaf getting a 5-minute knee-on-knee penalty in the last couple minutes and Slovakia capitalizing on the powerplay. Despite going out early again, Canada will maintain their 5th overall ranking and get an automatic bye into the Olympics.
Finland
The co-host started the tournament with a pair of 1-0 wins against Belarus and Slovakia. They stared scoring goals against the Swiss and continued against France. Finland's first lost was against Canada, and that snowballed into getting shutout by the USA. Finland ended the round robin with an easy win against Kazakhstan. The Quarter Finals against the USA was very disciplined as only one penalty was called (it was against the USA). Finland opened the scoring in the second period but the USA tied it up 21 seconds later. The USA took the lead early in the third period. Finland tied it up midway though and scored the game winner with 19 seconds left in the game. As it stands, Finland might be able to retain their #1 ranking and they get an automatic bye into the Olympics.
France
Can you say surprising team? They were it. After losing 7-2 to the USA to start the tournament, they rebounded with an easy 6-3 win over Kazakhstan. The Kazakhstan game was the end for France forward Sasha Treille, as a head shot earned him a five game suspension. Another 7-2 lost (this time to Canada) and a 7-1 lost to Finland was the last straw for France. They rolled with 2 close wins against Switzerland and Belarus. They matched up again Slovakia for the chance to get into the Quarter Finals. Both teams matched goal-for-goal. Slovakia scored 2 in the first, France answered with 2 back. Slovakia went ahead in the second, France tied it back up. After trading goals in the third, France took an interference penalty midway through the third and Slovakia didn't waste that opportunity. This time, France wasn't able to answer, as a late penalty sealed their hopes of advancing in the tournament. France ends up as the 14th ranked nation and will need to qualify for the Olympics next February.
Kazakhstan
This tournament could have gone better...or not. Kazakhstan started with 2 bad losses against Switzerland and France then gave up a 2-0 lead against Belarus. The game against Slovakia was a bit better, as they lost 4-2 (the fourth goal was a late PP goal). They keep whatever momentum they had going into their game against the USA and dragged it into overtime, were the USA avoid a scare and won 3-2. That killed Kazakhstan as they got blown out by Canada 8-0 in the next game and finished the tournament losing 4-1 to Finland. Kazakhstan is now relegated to Division I and have to qualify to the Olympics.
Slovakia
Slovakia is definitely becoming an international powerhouse. They started off with close 1-goal losses against Canada and Finland before winning two 4-2 games (against the USA and Kazakhstan respectively). The 5-1 win against Belarus was the end of dominating wins for Slovakia, as they got by Switzerland 1-0 then squeaked by France 5-4 to get into the Quarter Finals. They faced Canada and came out flying with two goals, but Canada answered back with 3 of their own. Slovakia tied it up midway through the third. Ryan Getzlaf then took a major penalty (knee-on-knee), and on the ensuing faceoff, Handzus tipped home a point shot. This was all Slovakia needed as they move on to the Semi-Finals. Slovakia has a chance to jump a few spots in the world rankings and get an automatic bye into the Olympics.
Switzerland
Switzerland started with two wins (against Kazakhstan and Belarus), then that was it. They could only muster 2 goals against Canada, Finland, and France, and all three times that wasn't enough. Hard-hitting defensemen Goran Bezina was suspended after the France game for the rest of the tournament. The Swiss got shutout by Slovakia and ended the tournament with a 5-2 lost against the USA. Switzerland will likely fall a few spots in the world ranking but will hold on to an automatic Olympic berth.
USA
USA started the tournament strong, winning against France 7-2 and earning an overtime win against Canada. They suffered their only lost against Slovakia. USA won against Belarus 5-3 and avoided a scare against Kazakhstan by winning another overtime game. They ended the tournament with two 5-goal performances (5-0 against Finland and 5-2 against Switzerland). They faced off against Finland in the Quarter Finals, were it was a different story. USA and Finland swapped goals until the very end of the third, were Finland scored in the dying seconds to end the USA's hopes of a medal. USA will likely end up 6th in the world ranking and will get an automatic bye into the Olympics.
Power Rankings Fun
Now that the IIHF Power Rankings are becoming popular (about damn time!) lets take a look at the best lines for each team.
Belarus - Andrei Kostitsyn will not play in the next game (May 4)
Canada - This ranking will make Brent Sutter smile (May 4)
Finland - There’s pressure from fans, media, family, friends, and household pets (May 4)
France - The key is fair play and respect, like Sarkozy and Hollande (May 4)
Kazakhstan - The Mayans were right (May 17)
Slovakia - There is no joke because we are no joke (May 13)
Switzerland - Even our bank accounts can't console us (May 13)
USA - Another big win over a country we can't find on the map (May 10)
Round Robin Standings (Wins-OT Wins-OT Loss-Loss-Points-Goal Differential)
1. Canada 6 - 0 - 1 - 0 - 19 - +20
2. USA 4 - 2 - 0 - 1 - 16 - +15
3. Finland 5 - 0 - 0 - 2 - 15 - +7
4. Slovakia 5 - 0 - 0 - 2 - 15 - +8
5. France 3 - 0 - 0 - 4 - 9 - -11
6. Switzerland 2 - 0 - 0 - 5 - 6 - -5
7. Belarus 1 - 0 - 0 - 6 - 3 - -12
8. Kazakhstan 0 - 0 - 1 - 6 - 1 - -22
Quarter Finals
Canada 3
Slovakia 4
USA 2
Finland 3
The Story For Each Team
Belarus
To Belarus' credit, they did have relatively close games. After losing by a goal in their first 2 games (Finland and Switzerland), Belarus used a 3-goal second period against Kazakhstan to get their first (and only) win. They got back on the losing train the next game by giving up 5 goals to the USA. The Kostitsyn's joined the team afterwards while long-time national team goalie Andrei Mezin left the team due to lack of playing time. Belarus end up losing their next game against Slovakia 5-1. Belarus had a lead after one period against France, but blew it in the second and lost it in the third. Their last game of the tournament was against Canada, and was pretty eventful. Not only did they lose 5-1, but they lost both Kostitsyns - Andrei to a game misconduct and Sergei to a shoulder injury. Their result has kept them in the World Championship for next year, but they will have to go through a qualifying tournament next February in order to play in the Olympics.
Canada
The tournament started rough for Canada as they squeaked out a victory against Slovakia and lost a heart breaker in overtime against the USA. Then Canada blew out France 7-2, which is only impressive since Getzlaf, Perry, and Benn were hungover. Canada continued to struggle as they just got by Switzerland and needed to come back against Finland. They finished up the tournament blowing out Kazakhstan (8-0) and Belarus (5-1). The Belarus game was not without incident as Luke Scheen and Marc Methot both got boarding calls late in the game. Methot ended up being suspended for the Quarter Finals game. The re-match against Slovakia ended with Getzlaf getting a 5-minute knee-on-knee penalty in the last couple minutes and Slovakia capitalizing on the powerplay. Despite going out early again, Canada will maintain their 5th overall ranking and get an automatic bye into the Olympics.
Finland
The co-host started the tournament with a pair of 1-0 wins against Belarus and Slovakia. They stared scoring goals against the Swiss and continued against France. Finland's first lost was against Canada, and that snowballed into getting shutout by the USA. Finland ended the round robin with an easy win against Kazakhstan. The Quarter Finals against the USA was very disciplined as only one penalty was called (it was against the USA). Finland opened the scoring in the second period but the USA tied it up 21 seconds later. The USA took the lead early in the third period. Finland tied it up midway though and scored the game winner with 19 seconds left in the game. As it stands, Finland might be able to retain their #1 ranking and they get an automatic bye into the Olympics.
France
Can you say surprising team? They were it. After losing 7-2 to the USA to start the tournament, they rebounded with an easy 6-3 win over Kazakhstan. The Kazakhstan game was the end for France forward Sasha Treille, as a head shot earned him a five game suspension. Another 7-2 lost (this time to Canada) and a 7-1 lost to Finland was the last straw for France. They rolled with 2 close wins against Switzerland and Belarus. They matched up again Slovakia for the chance to get into the Quarter Finals. Both teams matched goal-for-goal. Slovakia scored 2 in the first, France answered with 2 back. Slovakia went ahead in the second, France tied it back up. After trading goals in the third, France took an interference penalty midway through the third and Slovakia didn't waste that opportunity. This time, France wasn't able to answer, as a late penalty sealed their hopes of advancing in the tournament. France ends up as the 14th ranked nation and will need to qualify for the Olympics next February.
Kazakhstan
This tournament could have gone better...or not. Kazakhstan started with 2 bad losses against Switzerland and France then gave up a 2-0 lead against Belarus. The game against Slovakia was a bit better, as they lost 4-2 (the fourth goal was a late PP goal). They keep whatever momentum they had going into their game against the USA and dragged it into overtime, were the USA avoid a scare and won 3-2. That killed Kazakhstan as they got blown out by Canada 8-0 in the next game and finished the tournament losing 4-1 to Finland. Kazakhstan is now relegated to Division I and have to qualify to the Olympics.
Slovakia
Slovakia is definitely becoming an international powerhouse. They started off with close 1-goal losses against Canada and Finland before winning two 4-2 games (against the USA and Kazakhstan respectively). The 5-1 win against Belarus was the end of dominating wins for Slovakia, as they got by Switzerland 1-0 then squeaked by France 5-4 to get into the Quarter Finals. They faced Canada and came out flying with two goals, but Canada answered back with 3 of their own. Slovakia tied it up midway through the third. Ryan Getzlaf then took a major penalty (knee-on-knee), and on the ensuing faceoff, Handzus tipped home a point shot. This was all Slovakia needed as they move on to the Semi-Finals. Slovakia has a chance to jump a few spots in the world rankings and get an automatic bye into the Olympics.
Switzerland
Switzerland started with two wins (against Kazakhstan and Belarus), then that was it. They could only muster 2 goals against Canada, Finland, and France, and all three times that wasn't enough. Hard-hitting defensemen Goran Bezina was suspended after the France game for the rest of the tournament. The Swiss got shutout by Slovakia and ended the tournament with a 5-2 lost against the USA. Switzerland will likely fall a few spots in the world ranking but will hold on to an automatic Olympic berth.
USA
USA started the tournament strong, winning against France 7-2 and earning an overtime win against Canada. They suffered their only lost against Slovakia. USA won against Belarus 5-3 and avoided a scare against Kazakhstan by winning another overtime game. They ended the tournament with two 5-goal performances (5-0 against Finland and 5-2 against Switzerland). They faced off against Finland in the Quarter Finals, were it was a different story. USA and Finland swapped goals until the very end of the third, were Finland scored in the dying seconds to end the USA's hopes of a medal. USA will likely end up 6th in the world ranking and will get an automatic bye into the Olympics.
Power Rankings Fun
Now that the IIHF Power Rankings are becoming popular (about damn time!) lets take a look at the best lines for each team.
Belarus - Andrei Kostitsyn will not play in the next game (May 4)
Canada - This ranking will make Brent Sutter smile (May 4)
Finland - There’s pressure from fans, media, family, friends, and household pets (May 4)
France - The key is fair play and respect, like Sarkozy and Hollande (May 4)
Kazakhstan - The Mayans were right (May 17)
Slovakia - There is no joke because we are no joke (May 13)
Switzerland - Even our bank accounts can't console us (May 13)
USA - Another big win over a country we can't find on the map (May 10)
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
2012 Stanley Cup Review - (1) New York Rangers vs. (7) Washington Capitals
Series Summary
I'm late wrapping this up so quickly: This series was like the first round for both teams (Washington keeping games within a goal and New York alternating wins with a low-seeded team). The first game was uninteresting. The second game the Caps won despite Ovechkin only playing 13 minutes. Game 3 went into triple overtime, were Ryan McDonagh had almost an hour of ice time and the Rangers won it on a good behind-the-net play (some more on that game below). Washington evened it up in Game 4. Washington almost won Game 5 but a late, double minor high sticking penalty to Joel Ward allowed the Rangers to score the tying goal with seconds left and the winning goal in overtime. Ward redeemed himself with his play in Game 6 and Washington, again, tied the series. The Rangers got up to a two goal lead in Game 7 then went into shell mode (just like they did against Ottawa). The Capitals did get one back but it wasn't enough. New York moves on, Hunter moves back, and Washington probably makes a few moves.
Games
Washington Capitals 1
New York Rangers 3
Washington Capitals 3
New York Rangers 2
New York Rangers 2 (3OT)
Washington Capitals 1
New York Rangers 2
Washington Capitals 3
Washington Capitals 2
New York Rangers 3 (OT)
New York Rangers 1
Washington Capitals 2
Washington Capitals 1
New York Rangers 2
Three Thoughts On The Series
The second best thing about the triple overtime game: Karl Alzner's dogs messing up his apartment.
Play Of The Series
The best thing about the triple overtime game: Holtby's parents
I'm late wrapping this up so quickly: This series was like the first round for both teams (Washington keeping games within a goal and New York alternating wins with a low-seeded team). The first game was uninteresting. The second game the Caps won despite Ovechkin only playing 13 minutes. Game 3 went into triple overtime, were Ryan McDonagh had almost an hour of ice time and the Rangers won it on a good behind-the-net play (some more on that game below). Washington evened it up in Game 4. Washington almost won Game 5 but a late, double minor high sticking penalty to Joel Ward allowed the Rangers to score the tying goal with seconds left and the winning goal in overtime. Ward redeemed himself with his play in Game 6 and Washington, again, tied the series. The Rangers got up to a two goal lead in Game 7 then went into shell mode (just like they did against Ottawa). The Capitals did get one back but it wasn't enough. New York moves on, Hunter moves back, and Washington probably makes a few moves.
Games
Washington Capitals 1
New York Rangers 3
Washington Capitals 3
New York Rangers 2
New York Rangers 2 (3OT)
Washington Capitals 1
New York Rangers 2
Washington Capitals 3
Washington Capitals 2
New York Rangers 3 (OT)
New York Rangers 1
Washington Capitals 2
Washington Capitals 1
New York Rangers 2
Three Thoughts On The Series
- To those how complained about the shot blocking in this series: Where were you in the regular season? Better yet: Where was the complaining during the Habs playoff run in 2010?
- How Ovechkin handled his ice time issue was great. He's finally acting more like a captain than a figurehead.
- If Hunter did decide to coach Washington again it would have been on another one year deal. It would be hard to see him accepting anything long term.
The second best thing about the triple overtime game: Karl Alzner's dogs messing up his apartment.
Play Of The Series
The best thing about the triple overtime game: Holtby's parents
Sunday, May 13, 2012
2012 Playoffs: Round-o de Three-o
Los Angeles Kings vs. Phoenix Coyotes
These teams smashed my hopes of a Blues-Preds Western Finals, so in this case I'm picking the lesser of the two evils. The Kings actually have an elite goalie while the Coyotes just have a hot goalie so there is a chance he comes back down to earth. The Kings also have the better offense (at least on paper). Los Angeles in 5.
New Jersey Devils vs. New York Rangers
I'm picking the New York Devils...I mean the New Jersey Rangers...Now that I alienated both fan bases...
Anyway, I got to go for New York here. Brodeur isn't the goalie he was a decade ago while Lundqvist has the ability to stop the Devils shooters. The only thing going for the Devils right now is rest whereas the Rangers just grind out 2 series in a row and are probably exhausted by now. New York in 7.
These teams smashed my hopes of a Blues-Preds Western Finals, so in this case I'm picking the lesser of the two evils. The Kings actually have an elite goalie while the Coyotes just have a hot goalie so there is a chance he comes back down to earth. The Kings also have the better offense (at least on paper). Los Angeles in 5.
New Jersey Devils vs. New York Rangers
I'm picking the New York Devils...I mean the New Jersey Rangers...Now that I alienated both fan bases...
Anyway, I got to go for New York here. Brodeur isn't the goalie he was a decade ago while Lundqvist has the ability to stop the Devils shooters. The only thing going for the Devils right now is rest whereas the Rangers just grind out 2 series in a row and are probably exhausted by now. New York in 7.
2012 NHL Playoff Predictions - Round Three
Eastern Conference - Finals
(1) New York Rangers vs. (6) New Jersey Devils
MDK: New Jersey Devils
BEK: New York Rangers
Western Conference - Finals
(3) Phoenix Coyotes vs. (8) Los Angeles Kings
MDK:Los Angeles Kings
BEK: Los Angeles Kings
After Round Two
MDK: 4-8
BEK: 6-6
Saturday, May 12, 2012
Saturday Night Hockey - Playoff Edition #5
Enjiy Game 7!
Lineup NOTables
Washington Capitals vs. New York Rangers
Washington: Tom Poti (groin) and Tomas Vokoun (groin) are out while Jay Beagle (lower body) is questionable. Braden Holtby is in net.
New York: Brandon Dubinsky (lower body), Mats Aasen-Zuccarello (wrist) and Michael Sauer (concussion) are out. Henrik Lundqvist will start.
Lineup NOTables
Washington Capitals vs. New York Rangers
Washington: Tom Poti (groin) and Tomas Vokoun (groin) are out while Jay Beagle (lower body) is questionable. Braden Holtby is in net.
New York: Brandon Dubinsky (lower body), Mats Aasen-Zuccarello (wrist) and Michael Sauer (concussion) are out. Henrik Lundqvist will start.
Friday, May 11, 2012
2012 Stanley Cup Review - (5) Philadelphia Flyers vs. (6) New Jersey Devils
Series Summary
For Philly, this series started like the last one: an overtime win. Unlike the last series, they lost 4 in a row afterwards. Game 2 was the started of the Flyers declined, as they tried to coast on a 1-goal lead and end up losing 4-1. The closest the Flyers came to winning another game was in Game 3, but Alex Ponikarovsky (remember him Leaf fans?) scored in overtime. The story of Game 4 was Giroux's headshot on Zubrus and was suspended for a game. Game 5 was it for the Flyers. Bryzgalov had a horrible pass bounce off David Clarkson for the winning goal and Kovalchuk added an insurance marker in the third. The Devils are back in the Eastern Final for the first time since they won the Cup back in 2003. The Flyers, meanwhile, are going to go out and buy another goalie this offseason.
Games
New Jersey Devils 3
Philadelphia Flyers 4 (OT)
New Jersey Devils 4
Philadelphia Flyers 1
Philadelphia Flyers 3
New Jersey Devils 4 (OT)
Philadelphia Flyers 2
New Jersey Devils 4
New Jersey Devils 3
Philadelphia Flyers 1
Three Thoughts On The Series
Another thing about the "best player in the world", aren't they suppose to be the ones getting the headshots, not giving them?
Play Of The Series
Bryz has a question for Clarkson: Why you heff to block my pass?
For Philly, this series started like the last one: an overtime win. Unlike the last series, they lost 4 in a row afterwards. Game 2 was the started of the Flyers declined, as they tried to coast on a 1-goal lead and end up losing 4-1. The closest the Flyers came to winning another game was in Game 3, but Alex Ponikarovsky (remember him Leaf fans?) scored in overtime. The story of Game 4 was Giroux's headshot on Zubrus and was suspended for a game. Game 5 was it for the Flyers. Bryzgalov had a horrible pass bounce off David Clarkson for the winning goal and Kovalchuk added an insurance marker in the third. The Devils are back in the Eastern Final for the first time since they won the Cup back in 2003. The Flyers, meanwhile, are going to go out and buy another goalie this offseason.
Games
New Jersey Devils 3
Philadelphia Flyers 4 (OT)
New Jersey Devils 4
Philadelphia Flyers 1
Philadelphia Flyers 3
New Jersey Devils 4 (OT)
Philadelphia Flyers 2
New Jersey Devils 4
New Jersey Devils 3
Philadelphia Flyers 1
Three Thoughts On The Series
- Proof that Flyers fans can't get past their win against the Pens in the first round: Crosby Tears. No gonna lie, I kind of want to try it.
- Proof Russians don't only care about the World Championship: "For the first time in nine years, I'm not going to the World Championship, so it's fun," - Kovalchuk
- Last time I checked, the "best player in the world" leads their team to a championship and not get suspended for a crucial elimination game.
Another thing about the "best player in the world", aren't they suppose to be the ones getting the headshots, not giving them?
Bryz has a question for Clarkson: Why you heff to block my pass?
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
2012 Stanley Cup Review - (3) Phoenix Coyotes vs. (4) Nashville Predators
Series Summary
I didn't expect to be writing about this series so early (whoa...deja vu). This series started almost the complete opposite as it was expected to start: GOALS and plenty of them. Not taking away from Rinne and Smith who both made some pretty spectacular saves (well Rinne did, Smith sold a regular save like it was the hardest thing ever). The real goaltending that was expected came out in Game 3 as Nashville closed the gap in the series despite Radulov and (Andrei) Kostitsyn staying up a little late (re: 4:00 am) and breaking curfew. The debate around Game 4 was should they be back in the line up. Nashville lost by 1 so it's plausible to say that putting Radulov and Kostitsyn in the lineup could have made a difference, but we'll never know. Game 5 was a heartbreak for Nashville. Rinne let in 2 shots that should have been stopped and Smith only allowed a deflected shot by him. Now the Coyotes go on to the Western Finals while the Preds are hoping to lock up Suter and Weber long term.
Games
Nashville Predators 3
Phoenix Coyotes 4 (OT)
Nashville Predators 3
Phoenix Coyotes 5
Phoenix Coyotes 0
Nashville Predators 2
Phoenix Coyotes 1
Nashville Predators 0
Nashville Predators 1
Phoenix Coyotes 2
Three Thoughts On The Series
Not even a (live?) catfish could shake Mike Smith.
Play Of The Series
I still hate Mike Smith, but I can't pass up a chance to show a goalie (almost) scoring.
I didn't expect to be writing about this series so early (whoa...deja vu). This series started almost the complete opposite as it was expected to start: GOALS and plenty of them. Not taking away from Rinne and Smith who both made some pretty spectacular saves (well Rinne did, Smith sold a regular save like it was the hardest thing ever). The real goaltending that was expected came out in Game 3 as Nashville closed the gap in the series despite Radulov and (Andrei) Kostitsyn staying up a little late (re: 4:00 am) and breaking curfew. The debate around Game 4 was should they be back in the line up. Nashville lost by 1 so it's plausible to say that putting Radulov and Kostitsyn in the lineup could have made a difference, but we'll never know. Game 5 was a heartbreak for Nashville. Rinne let in 2 shots that should have been stopped and Smith only allowed a deflected shot by him. Now the Coyotes go on to the Western Finals while the Preds are hoping to lock up Suter and Weber long term.
Games
Nashville Predators 3
Phoenix Coyotes 4 (OT)
Nashville Predators 3
Phoenix Coyotes 5
Phoenix Coyotes 0
Nashville Predators 2
Phoenix Coyotes 1
Nashville Predators 0
Nashville Predators 1
Phoenix Coyotes 2
Three Thoughts On The Series
- Tinfoil hat #1: Phoenix seemed to have quite a few blown calls in their favour. Not saying, just saying.
- Tinfoil hat #2: How convenient it is the the NHL-owned Phoenix Coyotes are are getting an actual owner during a deep playoff run?
- I guess Andrei Kostitsyn can enjoy the bars in Finland (not Radulov, he'll enjoy his new knee).
Not even a (live?) catfish could shake Mike Smith.
I still hate Mike Smith, but I can't pass up a chance to show a goalie (almost) scoring.
2012 Stanley Cup Review - (2) St. Louis Blues vs. (8) Los Angeles Kings
Series Summary
I didn't expect to be writing about this series so early. The Kings just demolished the Blues, but I guess it helps when you take out their top defenseman and get away for it. Oh, also, Elliott went back to being the sieve he was last year. Ok, the first game was tight, after that it was all Kings. About the only thing St. Louis did right was stand up for Pietrangelo and fight Dwight King in Game 2. Not taking away from Quick, he had a good series. Los Angeles now moves on to face Phoenix while St. Louis can...uh...wait for Halak to heal?
Games
Los Angeles Kings 3
St. Louis Blues 1
Los Angeles Kings 5
St. Louis Blues 2
St. Louis Blues 2
Los Angeles Kings 4
St. Louis Blues 1
Los Angeles Kings 3
Three Thoughts On The Series
Back to Twitter, this time it's a Kings player. Take it away Dustin:
Play Of The Series
While the fight against Langenbrunner (really?) is a bonus, the two goals in this clip just put emphasis on how bad Elliott was in this series.
I didn't expect to be writing about this series so early. The Kings just demolished the Blues, but I guess it helps when you take out their top defenseman and get away for it. Oh, also, Elliott went back to being the sieve he was last year. Ok, the first game was tight, after that it was all Kings. About the only thing St. Louis did right was stand up for Pietrangelo and fight Dwight King in Game 2. Not taking away from Quick, he had a good series. Los Angeles now moves on to face Phoenix while St. Louis can...uh...wait for Halak to heal?
Games
Los Angeles Kings 3
St. Louis Blues 1
Los Angeles Kings 5
St. Louis Blues 2
St. Louis Blues 2
Los Angeles Kings 4
St. Louis Blues 1
Los Angeles Kings 3
Three Thoughts On The Series
- Seriously, who thought this would be a sweep?
- St. Louis' problem was that they could not get the puck up on Quick. All their shots seemed low.
- St. Louis' REAL problem: Saying Halak would not play in this series.
Back to Twitter, this time it's a Kings player. Take it away Dustin:
Play Of The Series
While the fight against Langenbrunner (really?) is a bonus, the two goals in this clip just put emphasis on how bad Elliott was in this series.
Saturday, May 5, 2012
Saturday Night Hockey: Playoff Edition #4
The Second Round Thus Far
It's kind of forming into Round 1 in the big picture: The Western Conference seems to be finishing quickly and the Eastern Conference looks like it it will drag out.
I don't know what to make of the Blues-Kings series. Elliott is playing like he's back in Ottawa, the Blues are making too many mistakes, and the Kings are actually scoring (mainly due to Elliott and the Blues mistakes). It's hard to see the Blues doing anything outside of winning just one game to avoid the sweep.
The same but for different reasons can be said for the Coyotes-Predators series. Rinne is settling into being decent with a few highlight saves, Radulov and Kostitsyn (Andrei, or "the bad one") are breaking curfew, and the Coyotes are playing good without allowing too many mistakes being turned into goals. Oh, and Smith is quite the actor. In the first round he was flopping like a fish out of water, in this round he's making even the most routine save look like the hardest save ever.
The Flyers-Devils series is interesting. First game: High scoring. Second game: Mostly New Jersey. Third game: Like Game 1, different outcome. Either way, goaltending has been questionable. We have see the good and bad of Brodeur during the games, and Bryzgalov hasn't helped Philly much...then again, Philly hasn't helped Philly. They seemed to have lost a bit of edge from their first series with Pittsburgh, or is it because Bryzgalov is going into Space Cadet mode a la "24/7".
Rangers-Capitals started boring, now entertaining (and not because of the new Holtby Parent's Cam). What I find strange is the unnecessary need to nit-pick Ovechkin's ice time. We seen the warning signs last series against Boston, so why fix something that is working. Ovechkin is slipping from Superstar status. It's a slow decline, but it's happening. Moving on to Game 3, what a game. Triple Overtime! Let's see what Game 4 holds today shall we?
Links
The World Championship is on. Check out the IIHF website for their running blog and their usually funny power rankings.
Puck Daddy reports the HBO is bring back "24/7" for the Leafs/Wings Winter Classic. Hello behind-the-scenes Brian Burke. Also, hello Toronto Media bitching about the access HBO gets compared to them.
The best Hockey rap since...uh....the last one.
Finally, a legit excuse as to why I'm single (well, during April, May, and some of June). (Post Media)
Lineup NOTables
New York Rangers vs. Washington Capitals
New York: Brandon Dubinsky (lower body), Mats Aasen-Zuccarello (wrist) and Michael Sauer (concussion) are out. Henrik Lundqvist will start.
Washington: Tom Poti (groin) and Tomas Vokoun (groin) are out. Braden Holtby is in net.
It's kind of forming into Round 1 in the big picture: The Western Conference seems to be finishing quickly and the Eastern Conference looks like it it will drag out.
I don't know what to make of the Blues-Kings series. Elliott is playing like he's back in Ottawa, the Blues are making too many mistakes, and the Kings are actually scoring (mainly due to Elliott and the Blues mistakes). It's hard to see the Blues doing anything outside of winning just one game to avoid the sweep.
The same but for different reasons can be said for the Coyotes-Predators series. Rinne is settling into being decent with a few highlight saves, Radulov and Kostitsyn (Andrei, or "the bad one") are breaking curfew, and the Coyotes are playing good without allowing too many mistakes being turned into goals. Oh, and Smith is quite the actor. In the first round he was flopping like a fish out of water, in this round he's making even the most routine save look like the hardest save ever.
The Flyers-Devils series is interesting. First game: High scoring. Second game: Mostly New Jersey. Third game: Like Game 1, different outcome. Either way, goaltending has been questionable. We have see the good and bad of Brodeur during the games, and Bryzgalov hasn't helped Philly much...then again, Philly hasn't helped Philly. They seemed to have lost a bit of edge from their first series with Pittsburgh, or is it because Bryzgalov is going into Space Cadet mode a la "24/7".
Rangers-Capitals started boring, now entertaining (and not because of the new Holtby Parent's Cam). What I find strange is the unnecessary need to nit-pick Ovechkin's ice time. We seen the warning signs last series against Boston, so why fix something that is working. Ovechkin is slipping from Superstar status. It's a slow decline, but it's happening. Moving on to Game 3, what a game. Triple Overtime! Let's see what Game 4 holds today shall we?
Links
The World Championship is on. Check out the IIHF website for their running blog and their usually funny power rankings.
Puck Daddy reports the HBO is bring back "24/7" for the Leafs/Wings Winter Classic. Hello behind-the-scenes Brian Burke. Also, hello Toronto Media bitching about the access HBO gets compared to them.
The best Hockey rap since...uh....the last one.
Finally, a legit excuse as to why I'm single (well, during April, May, and some of June). (Post Media)
Lineup NOTables
New York Rangers vs. Washington Capitals
New York: Brandon Dubinsky (lower body), Mats Aasen-Zuccarello (wrist) and Michael Sauer (concussion) are out. Henrik Lundqvist will start.
Washington: Tom Poti (groin) and Tomas Vokoun (groin) are out. Braden Holtby is in net.
Thursday, May 3, 2012
World Championship Preview #2
With the World Championship starting May 4th, now is a good time to look at the teams participating in this years tournament. While the finals cuts are just being made, here are the rosters (as of May 3rd) for the teams in Group S. Note: all roster information from the IIHF website.
Czech Republic
Goalies: Jakub Kovar (HC Ceske Budejovice, ELH), Jakub Stepanek (SKA St. Petersburg, KHL)
Defense: Miroslav Blatak (Salavat Yulayev Ufa, KHL), Petr Caslava (CSKA Moscow, KHL), Lukas Krajicek (Dynamo Minsk, KHL), Zdenek Kutlak (HC Ambri-Piotta, NLA), Jakub Nakladal (Salavat Yulayev Ufa, KHL), Ondrej Namac (Severstal Cherepovets, KHL)
Forwards: Michael Frolik (Chicago Blackhawks, NHL), Ales Hemsky (Edmonton Oilers, NHL), Lukas Kaspar (Barys Astana, KHL), Jan Kovar (HC Plzen, ELH), David Krejci (Boston Bruins, NHL), Milan Michalek (Ottawa Senators, NHL), Petr Nedved (Bili Tygri Liberec, ELH), Jiri Novotny (Barys Astana, KHL), Jakub Petruzalek (Amur Khabarovsk, KHL), Tomas Plekanec (Montreal Canadiens), Petr Prucha (SKA St. Petersburg, KHL), Petr Tenkrat (Sparta Prague, ELH), Michal Vondrka (Slavia Prague, ELH)
World Ranking: 4th
Last Years Result: 3rd
Top Threat: Bring the firepower with some impressive names on offense. They should do well.
Weakness: Defense does not look as good as last year, taking a step back in goal by playing last year's backup as starter.
Projected Finish: Quarter Finals
Denmark
Goalies: Fredrik Andersen (Frolunda Gothenburg, SEL), Patrick Galbraith (Espoo Blues, SM-liiga), Simon Nielsen (Lukko Rauma, SM-liiga)
Defense: Mads Bodker (Leksands IK, HockeyAllsvenskan), Philip Hersby (Odense Bulldogs, Denmark), Jesper Jensen (Rogle BK, SEL), Kasper Jensen (BIK Karlskoga, HockeyAllsvenskan), Philip Larsen (Dallas Stars, NHL), Stefan Lassen (Malmo Redhawks, HockeyAllsvenskan), Daniel Nielsen (Hamburg Freezers, DEL)
Forwards: Lars Eller (Montreal Canadiens, NHL), Morten Green (Malmo Redhawks, HockeyAllsvenskan), Jannik Hansen (Vancouver Canucks, NHL), Nichlas Hardt (Jokerit Helsinki, SM-liiga), Julian Jakobsen (Sodertalje SK, HockeyAllsvenskan), Jesper Jensen (Hanburg Freezers, DEL), Kim Lykkeskov (SonderjyskE Vojens, Denmark), Morten Madsen (MODO Ornskoldsvik, SEL), Bjarke Moller (AaB Aalborg, Denmark), Frans Nielsen (New York Islanders, NHL), Morten Poulsen (IK Oskarshamn, HockeyAllsvenskan), Kirill Starkov (SonderjyskE Vojens, Denmark), Frederik Storm (Herlev Eagles, Denmark)
World Ranking: 12th
Last Years Result: 11th
Top Threat: This is probably the best offense they have had in years (maybe ever).
Weakness: Always does just enough to avoid the Relegation Round. Needs to do more than squeak by weaker teams.
Projected Finish: Preliminary Round
Germany
Goalies: Dennis Endras (HIFK Helsinki, SM-liiga), Dimitrij Kotschnew (Atlant Mytishi, KHL)
Defense: Sinan Akdag (Krefeld Pinguine, DEL), Christopher Fischer (Grizzly Adams Wolfsburg, DEL), Nicolai Goc (Alder Mannheim, DEL), Justin Krueger (Charlotte Checkers, AHL), Kevin Lavallee (Kolner Haie, DEL), Florian Ondruschka (Straubing Tigers, DEL), Christoph Schubert (Hamburg Freezers, DEL)
Forwards: Alexander Barta (Malmo Redhawks, HockeyAllsvenskan), Sebastian Furchner (Grizzly Adams Wolfsburg, DEL), Marcel Goc (Florida Panthers, NHL), Philip Gogulla (Kolner Haie, DEL), Thomas Greilinger (ERC Ingolstadt, DEL), Kai Hospelt (Grizzly Adams Wolfsburg, DEL), Evan Kaufmann (DEG Dusseldorf, DEL), Marcus Kink (Alder Mannheim, DEL), Andre Rankel (Eisbaren Berlin, DEL), Patrick Reimer (DEG Dusseldorf, DEL), Felix Schutz (Kolner Haie, DEL), John Tripp (Kolner Haie, DEL), Christoph Ullmann (Alder Mannheim, DEL)
World Ranking: 8th
Last Years Result: 7th
Top Threat: Has put on 2 strong performances since being near-relegated in 2009. Will try to keep building on that momentum.
Weakness: Has not been able to break through against the top teams.
Projected Finish: Quarter Finals
Italy
Goalies: Daniel Bellissimo (BIK Karlskoga, HockeyAllsvenskan), Andreas Bernard (SaiPa Lappeenranta, SM-liiga), Thomas Tragust (Sterzing Broncos, Italy)
Defense: Christian Borgatello (Bolzano Foxes, Italy), Matthew de Marchi (VIK Vasteras, HockeyAllsvenskan), Armin Helfer (Pustertal Bruneck, Italy), Trevor Johnson (HC Valpellice, Italy), Thomas Larkin (Colgate University, NCAA), Stefano Marchetti (HC Asiago, Italy), Nicholas Plastino (BIK Karlskoga, HockeyAllsvenskan)
Forwards: Luca Ansoldi (Milano Rossoblu, Italy), Anton Bernard (Borzano Foxes, Italy), Manuel de Toni (Alleghe Hockey, Italy), Derek Edwardson (Bolzano Foxes, Italy), Alexander Egger (Bolzano Foxes, Italy), Luca Felicetti (HC Valpellice, Italy), Nicola Fontanive (Alleghe Hockey, Italy), Patrick Iannone (SG Pontebba, Italy), Marco Insam (Bolzano Foxes, Italy), Diego Iori (SHC Frassa, Italy), Vincent Rocco (Alleghe Hockey, Italy), Giulio Scandella (Pustertal Bruneck, Italy), Robert Sirianni (HC Valpellice, Italy)
World Ranking:
Last Years Result: N/A (Newly Promoted)
Top Threat: It looks like goaltending is their “strongest” point, with two of them playing in Sweden and Finland.
Weakness: Developing Austria syndrome (too good for Division I, too bad for the main tournament)
Projected Finish: Relegation
Latvia
Goalies: Maris Jucer (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Edgars Masalskis (Yugra Khanty-Mansisk, KHL), Ervins Mustukovs (Odense Bulldogs, Denmark)
Defense: Janis Andersons (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Oskars Bartulis (Adirondack Phantoms, AHL), Oskars Cibulskis (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Guntis Galvins (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Rodrigo Lavins (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Georgijs Pujacs (Avangard Omsk, KHL), Krisjanis Redlihs (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Kristaps Sotnieks (Dinamo Riga, KHL)
Forwards: Armands Berzins (HPK Hameenlinna, SM-liiga), Roberts Bukarts (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Martins Cipulis (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Kaspars Daugavins (Ottawa Senators, NHL), Andris Dzerins (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Miks Indrasis (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Koba Jass (Liepajas Metalurgs, Latvia), Rolands Kenins (ZSC Lions Zurich, NLA), Gints Meija (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Mikelis Redlihs (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Kaspars Saulietis (HPK Hameenlinna, SM-liiga), Aleksejs Sirokovs (Kometa Brno, ELH), Janis Sprukts (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Juris Stals (Dinamo Riga, KHL)
World Ranking: 13th
Last Years Result: 13th
Top Threat: Team chemistry. A lot of players played with Dinamo Riga in the KHL.
Weakness: They haven't produced a good goalie since the days of Irbe and Skudra.
Projected Finish: Preliminary Round
Norway
Goalies: Pal Grotnes (Stjernen Frederikstad, GET-ligaen), Lars Haugen (Shakhtyor Soligorsk, Belarus), Lars Volden (Espoo Blues, SM-liiga)
Defense: Alexander Bonsaksen (Rogle Angelholm, SEL), Jonas Holos (Vaxjo Lakers (SEL), Juha Kaunismaki (Stavanger Oilers, GET-ligaen), Lars Lokken Ostli (Stohamar Drangons, GET-ligaen), Henrik Solberg (Stavanger Oilers, GET-ligaen), Ole-Kristian Tollefsen (MODO Ornskoldsvik, SEL), Mats Trygg (HV71 Jonkoping, SEL)
Forwards: Morten Ask (HV71, SEL), Anders Bastiansen (Farjestad Karlstad, SEL), Kristian Forsberg (MODO Ornskoldsvik, SEL), Mads Hansen (Brynas Gavle, SEL), Marius Holtet (Farjestad Karlstad, SEL), Tommy Kristiansen (HV71 Jonkoping, SEL), Andreas Martinsen (Lillehammer IK, GET-ligaen), Ken Andre Olimb (Leksands IK, HockeyAllsvenskan), Mathis Olimb (Frolunda Gothenburg, SEL), Mats Rosseli Olsen (Frolunda Gothenburg, SEL), Martin Roymark (Timra IK, SEL), Per-Age Skroder (MODO Ornskoldsvik, SEL), Lars Erik Spets (Lorenskog IK, GET-ligaen), Patrick Thoresen (SKA St. Petersburg, KHL)
World Ranking: 9th
Last Years Result: 6th
Top Threat: Put on a strong performance last year and will try to repeat it with a lot of returning players form last year.
Weakness: Hard not to believe that it was a one-off year for them. Will need the offense and goaltending to be firing on all cylinders again.
Projected Finish: Preliminary Round
Russia
Goalies: Konstantin Burulin (Atlant Mytishi, KHL), Semyon Varlamov (Colorado Avalanche, KHL)
Defense: Denis Denisov (SKA St. Petersburg, KHL), Dmitri Kalinin (SKA St. Petersburg, KHL), Yevgeni Medvedev (Ak Bars Kazan, KHL), Ilya Nikulin (Ak Bars Kazan, KHL), Nikita Nikitin (Columbus Blue Jackets, NHL), Alexei Yemelin (Montreal Canadiens, NHL)
Forwards: Pavel Datsyuk (Detroit Red Wings, NHL), Nikolai Kulyomin (Toronto Maple Leafs, NHL), Yevgeni Kuznetsov (Traktor Chelyabinsk, KHL), Yevgeni Malkin (Pittsburgh Penguins, NHL), Alexander Perezhogin (Avangard Omsk, KHL), Alexander Popov (Avangard Omsk, KHL), Alexander Svitov (Salavat Yulayev Ufa, KHL), Alexei Tereshenko (Ak Bars Kazan, KHL), Nikolai Zherdev (Atlant Mytishi, KHL)
World Ranking: 3rd
Last Years Result: 4th
Top Threat: Always loaded on offense, this team will score with the best of them.
Weakness: Probably just me, but the goaltending seems underwhelming. While Burulin was top 5 in SV% in the KHL and Varlamov was just ok this season, it just doesn't stand out to me.
Projected Finish: Medal Round
Sweden
Goalies: Jhonas Enroth (Buffalo Sabres, NHL), Viktor Fasth (AIK Stockholm, SEL)
Defense: Victor Hedman (Tampa Bay Lightning, NHL), Niklas Hjalmarsson (Chicago Blackhawks, NHL), Niklas Kronwall (Detroit Red Wings, NHL), Staffan Kronwall (Severstal Cherevpovets, KHL)
Forwards: Loui Eriksson (Dallas Stars, NHL), Jonathan Ericsson (Detroit Red Wings, NHL), Johan Franzen (Detroit Red Wings, NHL), Calle Jarnkrok (Brynas Gavle, SEL), Gabriel Landeskog (Colorado Avalanche, NHL), Joel Lundqvist (Frolunda Gothenburg, SEL), Niklas Persson (CSKA Moscow, KHL), Fredrik Pettersson (Frolunda Gothenburg, SEL), Jakob Silfverberg (Ottawa Senator, NHL), Viktor Stalberg (Chicago Blackhawks, NHL), Henrik Zetterberg (Detroit Red Wings)
World Ranking: 2nd
Last Years Result: 2nd
Top Threat: That is one hell of a team they put together. They will try (and not doubt will) get back to the gold medal game.
Weakness: Age? Too many Red Wings? I really do not know a weakness for this team.
Projected Finish: Medal Round
Czech Republic
Goalies: Jakub Kovar (HC Ceske Budejovice, ELH), Jakub Stepanek (SKA St. Petersburg, KHL)
Defense: Miroslav Blatak (Salavat Yulayev Ufa, KHL), Petr Caslava (CSKA Moscow, KHL), Lukas Krajicek (Dynamo Minsk, KHL), Zdenek Kutlak (HC Ambri-Piotta, NLA), Jakub Nakladal (Salavat Yulayev Ufa, KHL), Ondrej Namac (Severstal Cherepovets, KHL)
Forwards: Michael Frolik (Chicago Blackhawks, NHL), Ales Hemsky (Edmonton Oilers, NHL), Lukas Kaspar (Barys Astana, KHL), Jan Kovar (HC Plzen, ELH), David Krejci (Boston Bruins, NHL), Milan Michalek (Ottawa Senators, NHL), Petr Nedved (Bili Tygri Liberec, ELH), Jiri Novotny (Barys Astana, KHL), Jakub Petruzalek (Amur Khabarovsk, KHL), Tomas Plekanec (Montreal Canadiens), Petr Prucha (SKA St. Petersburg, KHL), Petr Tenkrat (Sparta Prague, ELH), Michal Vondrka (Slavia Prague, ELH)
World Ranking: 4th
Last Years Result: 3rd
Top Threat: Bring the firepower with some impressive names on offense. They should do well.
Weakness: Defense does not look as good as last year, taking a step back in goal by playing last year's backup as starter.
Projected Finish: Quarter Finals
Denmark
Goalies: Fredrik Andersen (Frolunda Gothenburg, SEL), Patrick Galbraith (Espoo Blues, SM-liiga), Simon Nielsen (Lukko Rauma, SM-liiga)
Defense: Mads Bodker (Leksands IK, HockeyAllsvenskan), Philip Hersby (Odense Bulldogs, Denmark), Jesper Jensen (Rogle BK, SEL), Kasper Jensen (BIK Karlskoga, HockeyAllsvenskan), Philip Larsen (Dallas Stars, NHL), Stefan Lassen (Malmo Redhawks, HockeyAllsvenskan), Daniel Nielsen (Hamburg Freezers, DEL)
Forwards: Lars Eller (Montreal Canadiens, NHL), Morten Green (Malmo Redhawks, HockeyAllsvenskan), Jannik Hansen (Vancouver Canucks, NHL), Nichlas Hardt (Jokerit Helsinki, SM-liiga), Julian Jakobsen (Sodertalje SK, HockeyAllsvenskan), Jesper Jensen (Hanburg Freezers, DEL), Kim Lykkeskov (SonderjyskE Vojens, Denmark), Morten Madsen (MODO Ornskoldsvik, SEL), Bjarke Moller (AaB Aalborg, Denmark), Frans Nielsen (New York Islanders, NHL), Morten Poulsen (IK Oskarshamn, HockeyAllsvenskan), Kirill Starkov (SonderjyskE Vojens, Denmark), Frederik Storm (Herlev Eagles, Denmark)
World Ranking: 12th
Last Years Result: 11th
Top Threat: This is probably the best offense they have had in years (maybe ever).
Weakness: Always does just enough to avoid the Relegation Round. Needs to do more than squeak by weaker teams.
Projected Finish: Preliminary Round
Germany
Goalies: Dennis Endras (HIFK Helsinki, SM-liiga), Dimitrij Kotschnew (Atlant Mytishi, KHL)
Defense: Sinan Akdag (Krefeld Pinguine, DEL), Christopher Fischer (Grizzly Adams Wolfsburg, DEL), Nicolai Goc (Alder Mannheim, DEL), Justin Krueger (Charlotte Checkers, AHL), Kevin Lavallee (Kolner Haie, DEL), Florian Ondruschka (Straubing Tigers, DEL), Christoph Schubert (Hamburg Freezers, DEL)
Forwards: Alexander Barta (Malmo Redhawks, HockeyAllsvenskan), Sebastian Furchner (Grizzly Adams Wolfsburg, DEL), Marcel Goc (Florida Panthers, NHL), Philip Gogulla (Kolner Haie, DEL), Thomas Greilinger (ERC Ingolstadt, DEL), Kai Hospelt (Grizzly Adams Wolfsburg, DEL), Evan Kaufmann (DEG Dusseldorf, DEL), Marcus Kink (Alder Mannheim, DEL), Andre Rankel (Eisbaren Berlin, DEL), Patrick Reimer (DEG Dusseldorf, DEL), Felix Schutz (Kolner Haie, DEL), John Tripp (Kolner Haie, DEL), Christoph Ullmann (Alder Mannheim, DEL)
World Ranking: 8th
Last Years Result: 7th
Top Threat: Has put on 2 strong performances since being near-relegated in 2009. Will try to keep building on that momentum.
Weakness: Has not been able to break through against the top teams.
Projected Finish: Quarter Finals
Italy
Goalies: Daniel Bellissimo (BIK Karlskoga, HockeyAllsvenskan), Andreas Bernard (SaiPa Lappeenranta, SM-liiga), Thomas Tragust (Sterzing Broncos, Italy)
Defense: Christian Borgatello (Bolzano Foxes, Italy), Matthew de Marchi (VIK Vasteras, HockeyAllsvenskan), Armin Helfer (Pustertal Bruneck, Italy), Trevor Johnson (HC Valpellice, Italy), Thomas Larkin (Colgate University, NCAA), Stefano Marchetti (HC Asiago, Italy), Nicholas Plastino (BIK Karlskoga, HockeyAllsvenskan)
Forwards: Luca Ansoldi (Milano Rossoblu, Italy), Anton Bernard (Borzano Foxes, Italy), Manuel de Toni (Alleghe Hockey, Italy), Derek Edwardson (Bolzano Foxes, Italy), Alexander Egger (Bolzano Foxes, Italy), Luca Felicetti (HC Valpellice, Italy), Nicola Fontanive (Alleghe Hockey, Italy), Patrick Iannone (SG Pontebba, Italy), Marco Insam (Bolzano Foxes, Italy), Diego Iori (SHC Frassa, Italy), Vincent Rocco (Alleghe Hockey, Italy), Giulio Scandella (Pustertal Bruneck, Italy), Robert Sirianni (HC Valpellice, Italy)
World Ranking:
Last Years Result: N/A (Newly Promoted)
Top Threat: It looks like goaltending is their “strongest” point, with two of them playing in Sweden and Finland.
Weakness: Developing Austria syndrome (too good for Division I, too bad for the main tournament)
Projected Finish: Relegation
Latvia
Goalies: Maris Jucer (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Edgars Masalskis (Yugra Khanty-Mansisk, KHL), Ervins Mustukovs (Odense Bulldogs, Denmark)
Defense: Janis Andersons (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Oskars Bartulis (Adirondack Phantoms, AHL), Oskars Cibulskis (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Guntis Galvins (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Rodrigo Lavins (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Georgijs Pujacs (Avangard Omsk, KHL), Krisjanis Redlihs (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Kristaps Sotnieks (Dinamo Riga, KHL)
Forwards: Armands Berzins (HPK Hameenlinna, SM-liiga), Roberts Bukarts (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Martins Cipulis (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Kaspars Daugavins (Ottawa Senators, NHL), Andris Dzerins (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Miks Indrasis (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Koba Jass (Liepajas Metalurgs, Latvia), Rolands Kenins (ZSC Lions Zurich, NLA), Gints Meija (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Mikelis Redlihs (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Kaspars Saulietis (HPK Hameenlinna, SM-liiga), Aleksejs Sirokovs (Kometa Brno, ELH), Janis Sprukts (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Juris Stals (Dinamo Riga, KHL)
World Ranking: 13th
Last Years Result: 13th
Top Threat: Team chemistry. A lot of players played with Dinamo Riga in the KHL.
Weakness: They haven't produced a good goalie since the days of Irbe and Skudra.
Projected Finish: Preliminary Round
Norway
Goalies: Pal Grotnes (Stjernen Frederikstad, GET-ligaen), Lars Haugen (Shakhtyor Soligorsk, Belarus), Lars Volden (Espoo Blues, SM-liiga)
Defense: Alexander Bonsaksen (Rogle Angelholm, SEL), Jonas Holos (Vaxjo Lakers (SEL), Juha Kaunismaki (Stavanger Oilers, GET-ligaen), Lars Lokken Ostli (Stohamar Drangons, GET-ligaen), Henrik Solberg (Stavanger Oilers, GET-ligaen), Ole-Kristian Tollefsen (MODO Ornskoldsvik, SEL), Mats Trygg (HV71 Jonkoping, SEL)
Forwards: Morten Ask (HV71, SEL), Anders Bastiansen (Farjestad Karlstad, SEL), Kristian Forsberg (MODO Ornskoldsvik, SEL), Mads Hansen (Brynas Gavle, SEL), Marius Holtet (Farjestad Karlstad, SEL), Tommy Kristiansen (HV71 Jonkoping, SEL), Andreas Martinsen (Lillehammer IK, GET-ligaen), Ken Andre Olimb (Leksands IK, HockeyAllsvenskan), Mathis Olimb (Frolunda Gothenburg, SEL), Mats Rosseli Olsen (Frolunda Gothenburg, SEL), Martin Roymark (Timra IK, SEL), Per-Age Skroder (MODO Ornskoldsvik, SEL), Lars Erik Spets (Lorenskog IK, GET-ligaen), Patrick Thoresen (SKA St. Petersburg, KHL)
World Ranking: 9th
Last Years Result: 6th
Top Threat: Put on a strong performance last year and will try to repeat it with a lot of returning players form last year.
Weakness: Hard not to believe that it was a one-off year for them. Will need the offense and goaltending to be firing on all cylinders again.
Projected Finish: Preliminary Round
Russia
Goalies: Konstantin Burulin (Atlant Mytishi, KHL), Semyon Varlamov (Colorado Avalanche, KHL)
Defense: Denis Denisov (SKA St. Petersburg, KHL), Dmitri Kalinin (SKA St. Petersburg, KHL), Yevgeni Medvedev (Ak Bars Kazan, KHL), Ilya Nikulin (Ak Bars Kazan, KHL), Nikita Nikitin (Columbus Blue Jackets, NHL), Alexei Yemelin (Montreal Canadiens, NHL)
Forwards: Pavel Datsyuk (Detroit Red Wings, NHL), Nikolai Kulyomin (Toronto Maple Leafs, NHL), Yevgeni Kuznetsov (Traktor Chelyabinsk, KHL), Yevgeni Malkin (Pittsburgh Penguins, NHL), Alexander Perezhogin (Avangard Omsk, KHL), Alexander Popov (Avangard Omsk, KHL), Alexander Svitov (Salavat Yulayev Ufa, KHL), Alexei Tereshenko (Ak Bars Kazan, KHL), Nikolai Zherdev (Atlant Mytishi, KHL)
World Ranking: 3rd
Last Years Result: 4th
Top Threat: Always loaded on offense, this team will score with the best of them.
Weakness: Probably just me, but the goaltending seems underwhelming. While Burulin was top 5 in SV% in the KHL and Varlamov was just ok this season, it just doesn't stand out to me.
Projected Finish: Medal Round
Sweden
Goalies: Jhonas Enroth (Buffalo Sabres, NHL), Viktor Fasth (AIK Stockholm, SEL)
Defense: Victor Hedman (Tampa Bay Lightning, NHL), Niklas Hjalmarsson (Chicago Blackhawks, NHL), Niklas Kronwall (Detroit Red Wings, NHL), Staffan Kronwall (Severstal Cherevpovets, KHL)
Forwards: Loui Eriksson (Dallas Stars, NHL), Jonathan Ericsson (Detroit Red Wings, NHL), Johan Franzen (Detroit Red Wings, NHL), Calle Jarnkrok (Brynas Gavle, SEL), Gabriel Landeskog (Colorado Avalanche, NHL), Joel Lundqvist (Frolunda Gothenburg, SEL), Niklas Persson (CSKA Moscow, KHL), Fredrik Pettersson (Frolunda Gothenburg, SEL), Jakob Silfverberg (Ottawa Senator, NHL), Viktor Stalberg (Chicago Blackhawks, NHL), Henrik Zetterberg (Detroit Red Wings)
World Ranking: 2nd
Last Years Result: 2nd
Top Threat: That is one hell of a team they put together. They will try (and not doubt will) get back to the gold medal game.
Weakness: Age? Too many Red Wings? I really do not know a weakness for this team.
Projected Finish: Medal Round
World Championship Preview #1
With the World Championship starting May 4th, now is a good time to look at the teams participating in this years tournament. Here are the rosters (as of May 3rd) for the teams in Group H. Note: all roster information from the IIHF website.
Belarus
Goalies: Vitali Koval (Torpedo Nizhni Novogorod, KHL), Andrei Mezin (Dynamo Minsk, KHL), Dmitri Milchakov (Metallurg Zhlobin, Belarus)
Defense: Pavel Chernaok (Shakhtyor Soligorsk, Belarus), Vladimir Denisov (Dynamo Minsk, KHL), Oleg Goroshko (Dynamo Minsk, KHL), Roman Graborenko (Drummondville Voltigeurs, QMJHL), Dmitri Korobov (Dynamo Minsk, KHL), Viktor Kostyuchyonok (Avtomobilist Yekaterinburg, KHL), Nikolai Stasenko (Severstal Cherepovets, KHL)
Forwards: Sergei Drozd (Dynamo Minsk, KHL), Mikhail Grabovski (Toronto Maple Leafs, NHL), Alexei Kalyuzhni (Avangard Omsk, KHL), Alexander Kitarov (Dynamo Minsk, KHL), Andrei Kolosov (HK Gomel, Belarus), Konstantin Koltsov (Salavat Yulayev Ufa, KHL), Yevgeni Kovyrshin (Severstal Cherepovets, KHL), Alexander Kulakov (Dynamo Minsk, KHL), Dmitri Meleshko (Dynamo Minsk, KHL), Andrei Stas (Dynamo Minsk, KHL), Andrei Stepanov (Amur Khabarovsk, KHL), Alexei Ugarov (Torpedo Nizhni Novogorod, KHL)
World Ranking: 11th
Last Years Result: 14th
Top Threat: Usually a decent team that can stay in the middle of the standings.
Weakness: Will need a strong tournament after avoiding relegation last year.
Projected Finish: Preliminary Round
Canada
Goalies: Devan Dubnyk (Edmonton Oilers, NHL), Cam Ward (Carolina Hurricanes, NHL)
Defense: Jay Bouwmeester (Calgary Flames, NHL), Duncan Keith (Chicago Blackhawks, NHL), Dion Phaneuf (Toronto Maple Leafs, NHL), Luke Schenn (Toronto Maple Leafs, NHL), Marc-Edouard Vlasic (San Jose Sharks, NHL)
Forwards: Jamie Benn (Dallas Stars, NHL), Alexandre Burrows (Vancouver Canucks, NHL), Jordan Eberle (Edmonton Oilers, NHL), Ryan Getzlaf (Anaheim Ducks), Evander Kane (Winnipeg Jets, NHL), Andrew Ladd (Winnipeg Jet, NHL), Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (Edmonton Oilers, NHL), Ryan O'Reilly (Colorado Avalanche, NHL), Corey Perry (Anaheim Ducks, NHL), Teddy Purcell (Tampa Bay Lightning, NHL), Patrick Sharp (Chicago Blackhawks, NHL), Jeff Skinner (Carolina Hurricanes, NHL), John Tavares (New York Islanders, NHL)
World Ranking: 5th
Last Years Result: 5th
Top Threat: Actually have names this year, no need for a few guys who are over in Europe.
Weakness: A couple Leafs? Bouwmeester? These guys aren't getting past the Preliminary Round.
Projected Finish: Medal Round
Finland
Goalies: Kari Lehtonen (Dallas Stars, NHL), Karri Ramo (Avangard Omsk, KHL), Petri Vehanen (Ak Bars Kazan, KHL)
Defense: Juuso Hietanen (Torpedo Nizhni Novogorod, KHL), Topi Jaakola (Lulea HF, SEL), Joonas Jarvinen (Pelicans Lahti, SM-liiga), Lasse Kukkonen (Metallurg Magnitogorsk, KHL), Mikko Maenpaa (Amur Khabarovsk, KHL), Janne Niskala (Atlant Mytishi, KHL), Anssi Salmela (Avangard Omsk, KHL), Ossi Vaananen (Jokerit Helsinki, SM-liiga)
Forwards: Valtteri Filppula (Detroit Red Wings, NHL), Mikael Granlund (HIFK Helsinki, SM-liiga), Jarrko Immonen (Ak Bars Kazan, KHL), Jesse Joensuu (HV71 Jonkoping, SEL), Jussi Jokinen (Carolina Hurricane, NHL), Niko Kapanen (Ak Bars Kazan, KHL), Mikko Koivu (Minnesota Wild, NHL), Leo Komarov (Dynamo Moscow, KHL), Petri Kontiola (Traktor Chelyabinsk, KHL), Janne Pesonen (HIFK Helsinki, SM-liiga), Antti Pihlstrom (Salavat Yulayev Ufa, KHL), Mika Pyorala (Frolunda Gothenburg, SEL)
World Ranking: 1st
Last Years Result: 1st
Top Threat: Kari Lehtonen helped Dallas get close to a playoff birth and will try to bring that momentum over for the co-host country.
Weakness: No Teemu? No Saku? These ain't your dad's Finnish team. Going to be facing extra pressure this year as defending champs and co-host.
Projected Finish: Medal Round
France
Goalies: Florian Hardy (Chamonix Chamois, France), Cristobal Huet (Fribourg-Gotteron, NLA), Fabrice Lhenry (Rouen Dragons, France)
Defense: Baptiste Amur (Grenoble Bruleurs de Loups, France), Yohann Auvitu (JYP Jyvaskyla, SM-liiga), Vincent Bachet (Amiens Gothiques, France), Nicolas Besch (Cracovia Krakow, Poland), Kevin Hecquefeuille (Geneve-Servette, NLA), Antonin Manavian (Rouen Dragons, France), Alexandre Rouleau (Grenoble Bruleures de Loups, France)
Forwards: Pierre-Edouard Bellemare (Skelleftea AIK, SEL), Charles Bertrand (Lukko Rauma, SM-liiga), Stephane Da Costa (Ottawa Senators, NHL), Teddy Da Costa (GKS Tychy, Poland), Julien Desroisirs (Rouen Dragon, France), Damien Fleury (Timra IK, SEL), Anthony Guttig (Dijon Ducs, France), Brian Henderson (Angers Ducs, France), Laurent Meunier (Straubing Tigers, DEL), Damien Raux (Angers Ducs, France), Antoine Roussel (Chicago Wolves, AHL), Sacha Treille (Sparta Phague, ELH), Yorick Treille (Sparta Prague, ELH)
World Ranking: 14th
Last Years Result: 12th
Top Threat: Again, Huet is there backstopper. This year they seem to added more to their offense.
Weakness: Usually a weak team all around. Will be fighting to stay alive.
Projected Finish: Preliminary Round
Kazahkstan
Goalies: Alexei Ivanov (Barys Astana, KHL), Vitali Kolesnik (Salavat Yulayev Ufa, KHL), Vitali Yeremeyev (Barys Astana, KHL)
Defense: Yevgeni Fadeyev (Barys Astana, KHL), Vladislav Kolesnikov (Torpedo Ust-Kamenogorsk, Kazahkstan), Andrei Korabeinikov (Torpedo Ust-Kamenogorsk, Kazahkstan), Alexei Litvineko (Barys Astana, KHL), Vitali Novopashin (Barys Astana, KHL), Roman Savchenko (Barys Astana, KHL), Denis Shemelin (Torpedo Ust-Kamenogorsk, Kazahkstan), Alexei Troshinski (Vityaz Chekhov, KHL), Sergei Yakovenko (Sary-Arka Karaganda, Kazahkstan)
Forwards: Yevgeni Bumagin (Barys Astana, Kazahkstan), Dmitri Dudarev (Torpedo Ust-Kamenogorsk, Kazahkstan), Vadim Krasnoslobodtsev (Barys Astana, KHL), Fyodor Polishuk (Barys Astana, KHL), Konstantin Pushkaryov (Barys Astana, KHL), Konstantin Romanov (Barys Astana, KHL), Yevgeni Rymarev (Barys Astana, KHL), Konstantin Savenkov (Torpedo Ust-Kamenogorsk, Kazahkstan), Andrei Spiridonov (HK Astana, Kazahkstan), Roman Starchenko (Barys Astana, KHL), Dmitri Upper (Atlant Mytishi, KHL), Alexei Vorontsov (HK Astana, Kazahkstan), Talgat Zhailauov (Barys Astana, KHL)
World Ranking: 16th
Last Years Result: N/A (Newly Promoted)
Top Threat: Team chemistry, a lot of guys play with the Kazahk KHL team.
Weakness: Just got promoted so have to quickly adapt to this level of competition. Will be fighting for survival.
Projected Finish: Relegation
Slovakia
Goalies: Peter Hamerlik (Ocelari Trinec, ELH), Jan Laco (Lev Poprad, KHL)
Defense: Ivan Baranka (Spartak Moscow, KHL), Zdeno Chara (Boston Bruins, NHL), Dominik Granak (Dynamo Moscow, KHL), Kristian Kudroc (Assat Pori, SM-liiga), Andrej Sekera (Buffalo Sabres, NHL), Tomas Starosta (Yugra Khanty-Mansisk, KHL), Rene Vydareny (HC Ceske Budejovice, ELH)
Forwards: Milan Bartovic (Bili Tygri Liberec, ELH), Mario Bliznak (Sparta Prague, ELH), Marcel Hascak (Slovan Bratislava, Extraliga), Marcel Hossa (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Libor Hudacek (Slovan Bratislava, Extraliga), Tomas Kopecky (Florida Panthers, NHL), Michel Miklik (HC Kosice, Extraliga), Juraj Mikus (TPS Turku, SM-liiga), Branko Radivojevic (Atlant Mytishi, KHL), Miroslav Satan (Slovan Bratislava, Extraliga), Tomas Surovy (CSKA Moscow, KHL), Tomas Tatar (Grand Rapids Griffins, AHL)
World Ranking: 10th
Last Years Result: 10th
Top Threat: They got Chara. Game Over.
Weakness: Just like St. Louis: No Halak = No Finals. That, and some concern with age.
Projected Finish: Quarter Finals
Switzerland
Goalies: Reto Barra (EHC Biel, NLA), Tobias Stephan (Geneve-Servette, NLA)
Defense: Goran Bezina (Geneve-Servette, NLA), Severin Blindenbacher (ZSC Lions Zurich, NLA), Felicien Du Bois (Kloten Flyers, NLA), Philippe Furrer (SC Bern, NLA), Luca Sbisa (Anaheim Ducks, NHL), Mark Streit (New York Islanders, NHL)
Forwards: Andres Ambuhl (ZSC Lions Zurich), Damien Brunner (EV Zug, NLA), Simon Moser (SCL Tigers Langnau, NLA), Nino Niederreiter (New York Islanders, NHL), Benjamin Pluss (Fribourg-Gotteron, NLA), Kevin Romy (HC Lugano, NLA), Ivo Ruthemann (SC Bern, NLA), Morris Trachsler (Geneve-Servette, NLA), Roman Wick (Kloten Flyers, NLA)
World Ranking: 7th
Last Years Result: 9th
Top Threat: A lot of regulars on this team. The defense and goaltending look decent.
Weakness: Surprising lack of players registered for this team, may get tired early.
Projected Finish: Preliminary Round
United States of America
Goalies: Richard Bachman (Dallas Starts, NHL), John Curry (Hamburg Freezers, DEL), Jimmy Howard (Detroit Red Wings, NHL)
Defense: Justin Braun (San Jose Sharks, NHL), Chris Butler (Calgary Flames, NHL), Justin Faulk (Carolina Hurricanes, NHL), Cam Fowler (Anaheim Ducks, NHL), Alex Goligoski (Dallas Stars, NHL), Jack Johnson (Columbus Blue Jackets, NHL), Jeff Petry (Edmonton Oilers, NHL)
Forwards: Justin Abdelkader (Detroit Red Wings, NHL), Cam Atkinson (Columbus Blue Jackets, NHL), J.T. Brown (Tampa Bay Lightning, NHL), Joey Crabb (Toronto Maple Leafs, NHL), Patrick Dwyer (Carolina Hurricanes, NHL), Ryan Lasch (Pelicans Lahti, SM-liiga), Kyle Oposo (New York Islanders, NHL), Max Pacioretty (Montreal Canadiens, NHL), Kyle Palmieri (Anaheim Ducks, NHL), Bobby Ryan (Anaheim Ducks, NHL), Jim Slater (Winnipeg Jets, NHL), Paul Stastny (Colorado Avalanche, NHL), Nate Thompson (Tampa Bay Lightning, NHL)
World Ranking: 6th
Last Years Result: 8th
Top Threat: Scoring should be no issue, should be interesting to see how Howard performs with a team not named the Red Wings in front of him.
Weakness: Coached by a guy employed by the Leafs. 'Nuff said.
Projected Finish: Quarter Finals
Belarus
Goalies: Vitali Koval (Torpedo Nizhni Novogorod, KHL), Andrei Mezin (Dynamo Minsk, KHL), Dmitri Milchakov (Metallurg Zhlobin, Belarus)
Defense: Pavel Chernaok (Shakhtyor Soligorsk, Belarus), Vladimir Denisov (Dynamo Minsk, KHL), Oleg Goroshko (Dynamo Minsk, KHL), Roman Graborenko (Drummondville Voltigeurs, QMJHL), Dmitri Korobov (Dynamo Minsk, KHL), Viktor Kostyuchyonok (Avtomobilist Yekaterinburg, KHL), Nikolai Stasenko (Severstal Cherepovets, KHL)
Forwards: Sergei Drozd (Dynamo Minsk, KHL), Mikhail Grabovski (Toronto Maple Leafs, NHL), Alexei Kalyuzhni (Avangard Omsk, KHL), Alexander Kitarov (Dynamo Minsk, KHL), Andrei Kolosov (HK Gomel, Belarus), Konstantin Koltsov (Salavat Yulayev Ufa, KHL), Yevgeni Kovyrshin (Severstal Cherepovets, KHL), Alexander Kulakov (Dynamo Minsk, KHL), Dmitri Meleshko (Dynamo Minsk, KHL), Andrei Stas (Dynamo Minsk, KHL), Andrei Stepanov (Amur Khabarovsk, KHL), Alexei Ugarov (Torpedo Nizhni Novogorod, KHL)
World Ranking: 11th
Last Years Result: 14th
Top Threat: Usually a decent team that can stay in the middle of the standings.
Weakness: Will need a strong tournament after avoiding relegation last year.
Projected Finish: Preliminary Round
Canada
Goalies: Devan Dubnyk (Edmonton Oilers, NHL), Cam Ward (Carolina Hurricanes, NHL)
Defense: Jay Bouwmeester (Calgary Flames, NHL), Duncan Keith (Chicago Blackhawks, NHL), Dion Phaneuf (Toronto Maple Leafs, NHL), Luke Schenn (Toronto Maple Leafs, NHL), Marc-Edouard Vlasic (San Jose Sharks, NHL)
Forwards: Jamie Benn (Dallas Stars, NHL), Alexandre Burrows (Vancouver Canucks, NHL), Jordan Eberle (Edmonton Oilers, NHL), Ryan Getzlaf (Anaheim Ducks), Evander Kane (Winnipeg Jets, NHL), Andrew Ladd (Winnipeg Jet, NHL), Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (Edmonton Oilers, NHL), Ryan O'Reilly (Colorado Avalanche, NHL), Corey Perry (Anaheim Ducks, NHL), Teddy Purcell (Tampa Bay Lightning, NHL), Patrick Sharp (Chicago Blackhawks, NHL), Jeff Skinner (Carolina Hurricanes, NHL), John Tavares (New York Islanders, NHL)
World Ranking: 5th
Last Years Result: 5th
Top Threat: Actually have names this year, no need for a few guys who are over in Europe.
Weakness: A couple Leafs? Bouwmeester? These guys aren't getting past the Preliminary Round.
Projected Finish: Medal Round
Finland
Goalies: Kari Lehtonen (Dallas Stars, NHL), Karri Ramo (Avangard Omsk, KHL), Petri Vehanen (Ak Bars Kazan, KHL)
Defense: Juuso Hietanen (Torpedo Nizhni Novogorod, KHL), Topi Jaakola (Lulea HF, SEL), Joonas Jarvinen (Pelicans Lahti, SM-liiga), Lasse Kukkonen (Metallurg Magnitogorsk, KHL), Mikko Maenpaa (Amur Khabarovsk, KHL), Janne Niskala (Atlant Mytishi, KHL), Anssi Salmela (Avangard Omsk, KHL), Ossi Vaananen (Jokerit Helsinki, SM-liiga)
Forwards: Valtteri Filppula (Detroit Red Wings, NHL), Mikael Granlund (HIFK Helsinki, SM-liiga), Jarrko Immonen (Ak Bars Kazan, KHL), Jesse Joensuu (HV71 Jonkoping, SEL), Jussi Jokinen (Carolina Hurricane, NHL), Niko Kapanen (Ak Bars Kazan, KHL), Mikko Koivu (Minnesota Wild, NHL), Leo Komarov (Dynamo Moscow, KHL), Petri Kontiola (Traktor Chelyabinsk, KHL), Janne Pesonen (HIFK Helsinki, SM-liiga), Antti Pihlstrom (Salavat Yulayev Ufa, KHL), Mika Pyorala (Frolunda Gothenburg, SEL)
World Ranking: 1st
Last Years Result: 1st
Top Threat: Kari Lehtonen helped Dallas get close to a playoff birth and will try to bring that momentum over for the co-host country.
Weakness: No Teemu? No Saku? These ain't your dad's Finnish team. Going to be facing extra pressure this year as defending champs and co-host.
Projected Finish: Medal Round
France
Goalies: Florian Hardy (Chamonix Chamois, France), Cristobal Huet (Fribourg-Gotteron, NLA), Fabrice Lhenry (Rouen Dragons, France)
Defense: Baptiste Amur (Grenoble Bruleurs de Loups, France), Yohann Auvitu (JYP Jyvaskyla, SM-liiga), Vincent Bachet (Amiens Gothiques, France), Nicolas Besch (Cracovia Krakow, Poland), Kevin Hecquefeuille (Geneve-Servette, NLA), Antonin Manavian (Rouen Dragons, France), Alexandre Rouleau (Grenoble Bruleures de Loups, France)
Forwards: Pierre-Edouard Bellemare (Skelleftea AIK, SEL), Charles Bertrand (Lukko Rauma, SM-liiga), Stephane Da Costa (Ottawa Senators, NHL), Teddy Da Costa (GKS Tychy, Poland), Julien Desroisirs (Rouen Dragon, France), Damien Fleury (Timra IK, SEL), Anthony Guttig (Dijon Ducs, France), Brian Henderson (Angers Ducs, France), Laurent Meunier (Straubing Tigers, DEL), Damien Raux (Angers Ducs, France), Antoine Roussel (Chicago Wolves, AHL), Sacha Treille (Sparta Phague, ELH), Yorick Treille (Sparta Prague, ELH)
World Ranking: 14th
Last Years Result: 12th
Top Threat: Again, Huet is there backstopper. This year they seem to added more to their offense.
Weakness: Usually a weak team all around. Will be fighting to stay alive.
Projected Finish: Preliminary Round
Kazahkstan
Goalies: Alexei Ivanov (Barys Astana, KHL), Vitali Kolesnik (Salavat Yulayev Ufa, KHL), Vitali Yeremeyev (Barys Astana, KHL)
Defense: Yevgeni Fadeyev (Barys Astana, KHL), Vladislav Kolesnikov (Torpedo Ust-Kamenogorsk, Kazahkstan), Andrei Korabeinikov (Torpedo Ust-Kamenogorsk, Kazahkstan), Alexei Litvineko (Barys Astana, KHL), Vitali Novopashin (Barys Astana, KHL), Roman Savchenko (Barys Astana, KHL), Denis Shemelin (Torpedo Ust-Kamenogorsk, Kazahkstan), Alexei Troshinski (Vityaz Chekhov, KHL), Sergei Yakovenko (Sary-Arka Karaganda, Kazahkstan)
Forwards: Yevgeni Bumagin (Barys Astana, Kazahkstan), Dmitri Dudarev (Torpedo Ust-Kamenogorsk, Kazahkstan), Vadim Krasnoslobodtsev (Barys Astana, KHL), Fyodor Polishuk (Barys Astana, KHL), Konstantin Pushkaryov (Barys Astana, KHL), Konstantin Romanov (Barys Astana, KHL), Yevgeni Rymarev (Barys Astana, KHL), Konstantin Savenkov (Torpedo Ust-Kamenogorsk, Kazahkstan), Andrei Spiridonov (HK Astana, Kazahkstan), Roman Starchenko (Barys Astana, KHL), Dmitri Upper (Atlant Mytishi, KHL), Alexei Vorontsov (HK Astana, Kazahkstan), Talgat Zhailauov (Barys Astana, KHL)
World Ranking: 16th
Last Years Result: N/A (Newly Promoted)
Top Threat: Team chemistry, a lot of guys play with the Kazahk KHL team.
Weakness: Just got promoted so have to quickly adapt to this level of competition. Will be fighting for survival.
Projected Finish: Relegation
Slovakia
Goalies: Peter Hamerlik (Ocelari Trinec, ELH), Jan Laco (Lev Poprad, KHL)
Defense: Ivan Baranka (Spartak Moscow, KHL), Zdeno Chara (Boston Bruins, NHL), Dominik Granak (Dynamo Moscow, KHL), Kristian Kudroc (Assat Pori, SM-liiga), Andrej Sekera (Buffalo Sabres, NHL), Tomas Starosta (Yugra Khanty-Mansisk, KHL), Rene Vydareny (HC Ceske Budejovice, ELH)
Forwards: Milan Bartovic (Bili Tygri Liberec, ELH), Mario Bliznak (Sparta Prague, ELH), Marcel Hascak (Slovan Bratislava, Extraliga), Marcel Hossa (Dinamo Riga, KHL), Libor Hudacek (Slovan Bratislava, Extraliga), Tomas Kopecky (Florida Panthers, NHL), Michel Miklik (HC Kosice, Extraliga), Juraj Mikus (TPS Turku, SM-liiga), Branko Radivojevic (Atlant Mytishi, KHL), Miroslav Satan (Slovan Bratislava, Extraliga), Tomas Surovy (CSKA Moscow, KHL), Tomas Tatar (Grand Rapids Griffins, AHL)
World Ranking: 10th
Last Years Result: 10th
Top Threat: They got Chara. Game Over.
Weakness: Just like St. Louis: No Halak = No Finals. That, and some concern with age.
Projected Finish: Quarter Finals
Switzerland
Goalies: Reto Barra (EHC Biel, NLA), Tobias Stephan (Geneve-Servette, NLA)
Defense: Goran Bezina (Geneve-Servette, NLA), Severin Blindenbacher (ZSC Lions Zurich, NLA), Felicien Du Bois (Kloten Flyers, NLA), Philippe Furrer (SC Bern, NLA), Luca Sbisa (Anaheim Ducks, NHL), Mark Streit (New York Islanders, NHL)
Forwards: Andres Ambuhl (ZSC Lions Zurich), Damien Brunner (EV Zug, NLA), Simon Moser (SCL Tigers Langnau, NLA), Nino Niederreiter (New York Islanders, NHL), Benjamin Pluss (Fribourg-Gotteron, NLA), Kevin Romy (HC Lugano, NLA), Ivo Ruthemann (SC Bern, NLA), Morris Trachsler (Geneve-Servette, NLA), Roman Wick (Kloten Flyers, NLA)
World Ranking: 7th
Last Years Result: 9th
Top Threat: A lot of regulars on this team. The defense and goaltending look decent.
Weakness: Surprising lack of players registered for this team, may get tired early.
Projected Finish: Preliminary Round
United States of America
Goalies: Richard Bachman (Dallas Starts, NHL), John Curry (Hamburg Freezers, DEL), Jimmy Howard (Detroit Red Wings, NHL)
Defense: Justin Braun (San Jose Sharks, NHL), Chris Butler (Calgary Flames, NHL), Justin Faulk (Carolina Hurricanes, NHL), Cam Fowler (Anaheim Ducks, NHL), Alex Goligoski (Dallas Stars, NHL), Jack Johnson (Columbus Blue Jackets, NHL), Jeff Petry (Edmonton Oilers, NHL)
Forwards: Justin Abdelkader (Detroit Red Wings, NHL), Cam Atkinson (Columbus Blue Jackets, NHL), J.T. Brown (Tampa Bay Lightning, NHL), Joey Crabb (Toronto Maple Leafs, NHL), Patrick Dwyer (Carolina Hurricanes, NHL), Ryan Lasch (Pelicans Lahti, SM-liiga), Kyle Oposo (New York Islanders, NHL), Max Pacioretty (Montreal Canadiens, NHL), Kyle Palmieri (Anaheim Ducks, NHL), Bobby Ryan (Anaheim Ducks, NHL), Jim Slater (Winnipeg Jets, NHL), Paul Stastny (Colorado Avalanche, NHL), Nate Thompson (Tampa Bay Lightning, NHL)
World Ranking: 6th
Last Years Result: 8th
Top Threat: Scoring should be no issue, should be interesting to see how Howard performs with a team not named the Red Wings in front of him.
Weakness: Coached by a guy employed by the Leafs. 'Nuff said.
Projected Finish: Quarter Finals
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