We all knew the U.S. Men's Hockey team was talented, all the Olympic rosters are. We knew they, along with Canada, Russia and Sweden, were among the top four favorites going into the tournament. My expectation for this team was to make a solid run at a medal, any medal. I figured them to be very very good. But honestly, did anyone foresee the result of today's game coming?
The American men, driven by an absolute scoring exhibition in the second period, dismantled Big Zdeno Chara and the Slovaks. Let's not forget, this is the same Slovakian team which surprised the world by making it to the Bronze Medal Game at the 2010 Vancouver Games. Today, were it not for a missed offsides call, the Slovakians wouldn't have scored a single goal.
In comparison to the opponents faced by Canada, Russia and Sweden, the United States had arguably the toughest matchup in the first game. Yet, the American's won in the most convincing fashion out of any team in group play. So, is this U.S. team better than the experts gave them credit for? Afterall, many were picking the Americans to fail to medal, coming in behind Canada, Russia and Sweden.
After today, there should be no doubt the U.S. team is the primary obstacle between Canada and another Olympic Hockey Gold. The team is older and more experienced than in 2010. The defeat four years ago is still sitting in their minds and they're hungry for a little payback. I have been convinced, if there is a squad to overtake the Canadians, this is it. For, they are built more like a real team than an All Star Squad. Scoring line, shutdown line, faceoff specialists and penalty killers fill the U.S. Team. Not just a conglomerate of the best players. And lets not forget the stellar goaltending of Jonathan Quick and the proven Olympic track record of Ryan Miller. This American team is stunningly strong.
I'm not counting out the Russians and Swedes. I will not disregard Alex Ovechkin in front of his home nation or Henrik Lundqvist's fantastic goaltending. But that American team was lightning fast and mighty impressive today. The showdown with Russia this Saturday will give us a better picture, look for a disappointed home crowd.
I'm definitely looking forward to the next week of hockey.
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