World Cup of Hockey 2004

[Quake1028]

Will anyone be watching? I am hoping the USA can win it all but realistically it will be one of Canada, Sweden or the Czech Republic that take the Cup IMO.

<table border="0" width="600" cellpadding="3"cellspacing="1"><tr><td colspan="5" align="center" class="headline"><p>World Cup of Hockey 2004 Schedule</p></td></tr><tr><td class="newheder"align="center"nowrap>Date</td><td class="newheder" align="center" nowrap>Venue, City</td><td class="newheder" align="center" nowrap>Matchup</td><td class="newheder" align="left" nowrap>Time</td><td class="newheder"align="left"nowrap>Nat'l TV</td></tr><tr bgcolor="#ffffff" class="shoptext"><td align="left">Mon, Aug 30</td><td align="center">Hartwall Arena, Helsinki</td><td align="center" nowrap>Czech Republic 0 vs. Finland 4</td><td align="left">1:00 PM EDT</td><td align="left">ESPN,CBC</td></tr><tr bgcolor="#ded8b6"class="shoptext"> <td align="left">Tue, Aug 31</td><td align="center">Globe Arena, Stockholm</td><td align="center" nowrap>Germany 2 vs. Sweden 5</td><td align="left">1:00 PM EDT</td><td align="left">ESPN,CBC</td></tr><tr bgcolor="#ffffff" class="shoptext"><td align="left">Tue, Aug 31</td><td align="center">Bell Centre, Montreal</td><td align="center" nowrap>United States 1 vs. Canada 2</td><td align="left">7:00 PM EDT</td><td align="left">ESPN2,CBC</td></tr><tr bgcolor="#ded8b6" class="shoptext"><td align="left">Wed, Sep 1</td><td align="center">Globe Arena, Stockholm</td><td align="center" nowrap>Czech Republic 3 vs. Sweden 4</td><td align="left">1:00 PM EDT</td><td align="left">ESPN,CBC</td></tr><tr bgcolor="#ffffff" class="shoptext"> <td align="left">Wed, Sep 1</td><td align="center">Bell Centre, Montreal</td><td align="center" nowrap>Canada 5 vs. Slovakia 1</td><td align="left">7:00 PM EDT</td><td align="left">ESPN2,CBC</td></tr><tr bgcolor="#ded8b6" class="shoptext"><td align="left">Thu, Sep 2</td><td align="center">Cologne Arena, Cologne</td><td align="center" nowrap>Finland 3 vs. Germany 0</td><td align="left">1:30 PM EDT</td><td align="left">ESPN2,CBC</td></tr><tr bgcolor="#ffffff" class="shoptext"><td align="left">Thu, Sep 2</td><td align="center">Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul</td><td align="center" nowrap>Russia 3 vs. United States 1</td><td align="left">7:00 PM EDT</td><td align="left">ESPN2,CBC</td></tr><tr bgcolor="#ded8b6" class="shoptext"><td align="left">Fri, Sep 3</td><td align="center">Sazka Arena, Prague</td><td align="center" nowrap>Germany 2 vs. Czech Republic 7</td><td align="left">1:00 PM EDT</td><td align="left">ESPN,CBC</td></tr><tr bgcolor="#ffffff" class="shoptext"> <td align="left">Fri, Sep 3</td><td align="center">Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul</td><td align="center" nowrap>Slovakia 1 vs. United States 3</td><td align="left">7:00 PM EDT</td><td align="left">ESPN2,CBC</td></tr><tr bgcolor="#ded8b6" class="shoptext"><td align="left">Sat, Sep 4</td><td align="center">Hartwall Arena, Helsinki</td><td align="center" nowrap>Sweden 4 vs. Finland 4</td><td align="left">8:00 PM EDT</td><td align="left">CBC</td></tr><tr bgcolor="#ffffff" class="shoptext"><td align="left">Sat, Sep 4</td><td align="center">Air Canada Centre, Toronto</td><td align="center" nowrap>Russia 1 vs. Canada 3</td><td align="left">7:00 PM EDT</td><td align="left">CBC</td></tr><tr bgcolor="#ded8b6" class="shoptext"><td align="left">Sun, Sep 5</td><td align="center">Air Canada Centre, Toronto</td><td align="center" nowrap>Slovakia 2 vs. Russia 5</td><td align="left">7:00 PM EDT</td><td align="left">CBC</td></tr><tr class="shoptext" align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff"><td align="left">Mon., Sep. 6</td><td>QUARTERFINAL<br>Hartwall Arena, Helsinki</td><td>Finland 2 vs. Germany 1</td><td align="left">1:00 PM EDT</td><td align="left">CBC</td></tr><tr class="shoptext" align="center" bgcolor="#ded8b6"><td align="left">Tues., Sep. 7</td><td>QUARTERFINAL<br>Globe Arena, Stockholm</td><td>Sweden 1 vs. Czech Republic 6</td><td align="left">1:00 PM EDT</td><td align="left">ESPN,CBC</td></tr>
<tr class="shoptext" align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff"><td align="left">Tues., Sep. 7</td><td>QUARTERFINAL<br>Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul</td><td>United States 5 vs. Russia 3</td><td align="left">7:00 PM EDT</td><td align="left">ESPN2,CBC</td></tr><tr class="shoptext" align="center" bgcolor="#ded8b6"><td align="left">Wed., Sep. 8</td><td>QUARTERFINAL<br>Air Canada Centre, Toronto</td><td>Canada 5 vs. Slovakia 0</td><td align="left">7:00 PM EDT</td><td align="left">ESPN2,CBC</td></tr><tr class="shoptext" align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff"><td align="left">Fri., Sep. 10</td><td>SEMIFINAL<br>Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul</td><td>United States vs. Finland</td><td align="left">7:00 PM EDT</td><td align="left">ESPN2,CBC</td></tr><tr class="shoptext" align="center" bgcolor="#ded8b6"><td align="left">Sat., Sep. 11</td><td>SEMIFINAL<br>Air Canada Centre, Toronto</td><td>Canada vs. Czech Republic</td><td align="left">6:30 PM EDT</td><td align="left">ESPN2,CBC</td></tr><tr class="shoptext" align="center" bgcolor="#ffffff"><td align="left"><b>Tues., Sept. 14</b></td><td><b>CHAMPIONSHIP<br>Air Canada Centre, Toronto</b></td><td><b></b></td><td align="left">7:00 PM EDT</td><td align="left">ESPN2,CBC</td></tr></table><table width="500"><tr bgcolor="#333366"><td colspan="9"><font face="Arial" size="2" color="#ffffff"><b>European Pool</b></font></td></tr><tr bgcolor="#afb088"><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" WIDTH="200">&nbsp;</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" WIDTH="30" align="right">GP</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" WIDTH="30" align="right">W</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" WIDTH="30" align="right">L</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" WIDTH="30" align="right">T</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" WIDTH="30" align="right">OTL</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" WIDTH="60" align="right">PTS</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" WIDTH="45" align="right">GF</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" WIDTH="45" align="right">GA</td></tr>
<tr bgcolor="#ffffff"><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH">x-FINLAND</td>
<td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">3</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">2</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">0</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">1</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">0</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right" bgcolor="#afb088">5</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">11</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">4</td></tr><tr bgcolor="#e1d8b9"><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH">y-SWEDEN</a></td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">3</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">2</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">0</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">1</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">0</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right" bgcolor="#afb088">5</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">13</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">9</td></tr><tr bgcolor="#ffffff"><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH">CZECH REPUBLIC</td>
<td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">3</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">1</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">2</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">0</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">0</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right" bgcolor="#afb088">2</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">10</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">10</td></tr><tr bgcolor="#e1d8b9"><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH">GERMANY</a></td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">3</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">0</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">3</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">0</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">0</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right" bgcolor="#afb088">0</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">4</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">15</td></tr></table></p>
x - Clinched 1st place in European pool and will play Germany in the Quarterfinals.
y - Clinched 2nd place in European pool and will play Czech Republic in the Quarterfinals.
<p><table width="500"><tr bgcolor="#333366"><td colspan="9"><font face="Arial" size="2" color="#ffffff"><b>North American Pool</b></font></td></tr><tr bgcolor="#afb088"><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" WIDTH="200">&nbsp;</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" WIDTH="30" align="right">GP</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" WIDTH="30" align="right">W</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" WIDTH="30" align="right">L</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" WIDTH="30" align="right">T</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" WIDTH="30" align="right">OTL</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" WIDTH="60" align="right">PTS</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" WIDTH="45" align="right">GF</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" WIDTH="45" align="right">GA</td></tr><tr bgcolor="#e1d8b9"><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH">x-CANADA</a></td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">3</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">3</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">0</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">0</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">0</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right" bgcolor="#afb088">6</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">10</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">3</td></tr><tr bgcolor="#ffffff"><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH">y-RUSSIA</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">3</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">2</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">1</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">0</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">0</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right" bgcolor="#afb088">4</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">9</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">6</td></tr><tr bgcolor="#e1d8b9"><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH">UNITED STATES</a></td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">3</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">1</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">2</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">0</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">0</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right" bgcolor="#afb088">2</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">5</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">6</td></tr><tr bgcolor="#ffffff"><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH">SLOVAKIA</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">3</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">0</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">3</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">0</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">0</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right" bgcolor="#afb088">0</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">4</td><td class="HEADLINEGRAPH" align="right">13</td></tr></table>
x - Clinched 1st place in North American pool and will play Slovakia in the Quarterfinals.
y - Clinched 2nd place in North American pool and will play United States in the Quarterfinals.

[Copenhagen]

I'll be watching tonight :)

[Quake1028]

Sweden beats Germany 5-2.

[mautos]

CANADA TONIGHT! Will be an exciting game, although not do or die...well really none of these games are...it gives momentum if Canada beats USA (again) tonight.

[Quake1028]

Only thing it does is gives seeding for the knockout round.

[astrochimp]

Go Canada :)

[Jericho]

So if Slovakia and Russia play, will they actually use goalies? :) Canada is the obvious favorite, but Sweden probably has the closest team to its best roster. And Germany sucks...

[shizawn]

Go Finland!

[shizawn]

So all the teams except Slovakia and Russia get to play games in their home countries. Sounds fair.

[Darkfriend]

I'm watching Canada vs USA now!

*crosses fingers that Mario Lemieux's back holds up*


EDIT: Of course I'll be watching! It's our mini-NHL season! (since we won't have the big one...).

[Copenhagen]

Originally posted by Darkfriend


EDIT: Of course I'll be watching! It's our mini-NHL season! (since we won't have the big one...).

:( Yup.


Wow one hell of a save by Esche :up:

[moorehed]

who is this color guy? he is horrible...

canada is whooping ass.

[Copenhagen]

Why is Canada playing with yellow jerseys?

edit: ahh the 1920's uniforms.

The color guys sucks.

Way to miss an obvious penalty in front on Canada's net refs :mad:

[moorehed]

they aren't yellow...

they are ANTIQUE GOLD.

[Copenhagen]

Either way I don't like them...I always liked the uniforms they work in the Canada's Cup of the late 80s.

[Darkfriend]

MMMMmmmmmmartin ST-LOUIS GOOOOOOOOOAAAAL! -smile-

[Copenhagen]

Uphill battle for the US now...Canada scores on the PP.

[Darkfriend]

WOW Esche is standing on his head :eek:

[Copenhagen]

Well that could have easily been a 3-0 or 4-0 period if not for Esche. He is performing far better than I thought he would. I just don't know how long he is goign to be able to keep it up if he keeps getting peppered with shots.

[Copenhagen]

Goal..Billy Guerin...back to a one goal Canada lead.

[lordzeppelin]

Ya gotta love Mario dropping the gloves and going after Konowalchuk. Beautiful.

I so want to see Iginla and Tkachuk drop the gloves...

[Copenhagen]

Very, very good game. Glad to see the US come out and play strong in the second period. Now who was the genious that said for the World Cup lets not use international rules?

[astrochimp]

Good win for Canada :) and mainly im glad to have some hockey to watch :D

[Quake1028]

Good game. Will be a nice rematch in the Semis if it comes to that.

[Jericho]

Originally posted by shizawn
So all the teams except Slovakia and Russia get to play games in their home countries. Sounds fair.

I think its a rule that Slovakia always gets screwed in these international competitions.

Of course, whose idea was it to put the gold, silver, and bronze medal teams from the '02 Olympics in the same pool?

[RMSpuhler]

What's up with the NHL rules? Boo that.

Anyway, I'll be watching it and crying, since this is all we're going to get this year for hockey. I have no idea what I'm going to do this winter with no NHL.

RS

[movieking]

Good game between the Czechs and the Swedes. Czechs came roaring back after being down 4-0, but ultimately lost 4-3.

The big news was Jagr apparently giving an interview saying that he didn't want to be there, since they should not have to play hockey in the summer. Also, the Czechs sat out Hejduk for some reason.

[Darkfriend]

Canada up 2-0 early in the 1st period!

So far it's a clinic!

[eXcentris]

Yeah a goaltending clinic cause otherwise it would be 2 - 2 :)

[mautos]

Oh baby...if the NHL and NHLPA dont get a cba worked out they are crazy, cause look at the crowds...they are so pumped. I dont think they will get the same response after a 6 month lockout. Then again who am i kidding, i cant wait for the NHL season to actually start.

GO CANADA GO!

[astrochimp]

Good win for Canada tonight against the Slovaks :) Im looking forward to tomorrow nights game between US and Russia.

[TheMadMonk]

Originally posted by movieking

The big news was Jagr apparently giving an interview saying that he didn't want to be there, since they should not have to play hockey in the summer.

Good to see Jagr (not) maturing. At least he's not "drowning alive" like he said he was in Pittsburgh.

He should have just sat out if he doesn't want to be there. Fake a leg injury or something. While good on the ice, he has always been a negative in the locker room.

[movieking]

A lot of players decided to skip the World Cup, including many Russians who didn't want to play under Viktor Tikanov (although he was demoted from coach). It is really too bad, since it would be great to see all countries playing all of their top players.

Finland beat Germany 3-0 today in a pretty convincing win. Germany are going up against the Czechs tomorrow, and I really think that they are going to beat them.

Right now, the Russians and the US are tied 0-0 in the second, with the Russians all over the US in the first period (they had a couple of power plays). Great goaltending on both sides so far. Great game, with a lot of end to end rushes. This is how hockey should be played.

[movieking]

Game is over, and Russia won 3-1. Esche played great, as did the Russia goaltender.

WTF is Keith Tkachuk doing taking runs at people? He did it in the Canada game and he did it in the Russia game. He is turning into a cheap shot artist, and put his team shorthanded a couple of times. Wilson should bench his ass.

Poor sportsmanship on the part of some of the Americans that left the ice before the end of game ceremonies, including Brett Hull, probably hockey's biggest crybaby. You were outplayed, and took some stupid penalties as a team. Suck it up.

[ElementZ]

I see Kipprusoff hasnt missed a beat, 2 games, 2 shutouts

[Jericho]

They were saying that the U.S. losing is an upset, but I'd debate that. For one, Russia is very good even without a big name goalie. Second, the U.S. team isn't really that good. I'm curious to see how they handle Slovakia. The Slovaks are quite talented themselves, and are no gimme.

As for players skipping the tourney, yeah it's a bit disappointing. I do think Sweden has pretty much their "A" line-up, but all the other countries are missing a few key pieces. Still kind of fun, nevertheless.

[lordzeppelin]

The Kovalev goal tonight was SICK. Man I miss watching him game after game here in Pittsburgh.

On a side note...I got called a Commie at work today by several people because I could care less if the US wins, I just want to see good hockey, and I think Canada is going to win, and kinda want them to.

[TheMadMonk]

Originally posted by lordzeppelin
The Kovalev goal tonight was SICK. Man I miss watching him game after game here in Pittsburgh.

On a side note...I got called a Commie at work today by several people because I could care less if the US wins, I just want to see good hockey, and I think Canada is going to win, and kinda want them to.

My feelings exactly. 1) I miss Kovalev playing in Pgh, and 2) I don't care who wins, as long as there is great hockey to watch.

[mautos]

Originally posted by lordzeppelin
The Kovalev goal tonight was SICK. Man I miss watching him game after game here in Pittsburgh.

On a side note...I got called a Commie at work today by several people because I could care less if the US wins, I just want to see good hockey, and I think Canada is going to win, and kinda want them to.
HAHAHAH A COMMIE? Wow, that is just too funny...but yeah the Kovalev goal was very nice. Nice to see he still has his dangles going.

[movieking]

The Kovalev goal was definitely a highlight reel goal. Great hockey so far in this tournament.

The regular round really means nothing though, as everyone advances. It only sets the seeds for the playoffs, and I really think that any team can lose on any day in this tournament, since each team is full of superstars.

[TheNightFlier]

Will Chris Chelios either die or retire already?

Holy shit it looks like he smoked a gram before he went out to play tonight. I could put skates on my dog and he'd be faster than that old bag of dust.

Kovalev's goal was a thing of beauty.

Tkachuk is really pushing it with the cheap crap, and on Gonchar of all players. I hope he does it today and Chara or Mezei go after him.

Another game that proved that the US is just too old and too slow.

I actually wish they gave guys like Parise, Suter, Miller, Stuart(Mark), or Whitney spots on this team...And why aren't Parrish, Gionta, Malone, York, or Orpik out there? I may have missed the reasons why they're not...but they'd look a hell of a lot better than the cane/walker squad out there now..

[mautos]

Originally posted by TheNightFlier
Will Chris Chelios either die or retire already?

Holy shit it looks like he smoked a gram before he went out to play tonight. I could put skates on my dog and he'd be faster than that old bag of dust.

Kovalev's goal was a thing of beauty.

Tkachuk is really pushing it with the cheap crap, and on Gonchar of all players. I hope he does it today and Chara or Mezei go after him.

Another game that proved that the US is just too old and too slow.

I actually wish they gave guys like Parise, Suter, Miller, Stuart(Mark), or Whitney spots on this team...And why aren't Parrish, Gionta, Malone, York, or Orpik out there? I may have missed the reasons why they're not...but they'd look a hell of a lot better than the cane/walker squad out there now..
Come on, are you really kidding me? I'm not an American fan obviously living in Canada and all, but are you seriously telling me you'd rather have a 19 year old Zach PArise than a Brett Hull, or Konawalchuk? The kid is too young, and does not have the experience to play in this tourney. Come to think of Suter and Miller dont either. York and Malone are possibilities, but even then I don't know who you'd take off for them. The USA just needs to focus on playing good old time hockey like they can and get rid of the cheap shots. If they really settle their game down and play a simpler game I think they can advance in this tournament.

[Quake1028]

Originally posted by mautos
Come on, are you really kidding me? I'm not an American fan obviously living in Canada and all, but are you seriously telling me you'd rather have a 19 year old Zach PArise than a Brett Hull, or Konawalchuk? The kid is too young, and does not have the experience to play in this tourney. Come to think of Suter and Miller dont either. York and Malone are possibilities, but even then I don't know who you'd take off for them. The USA just needs to focus on playing good old time hockey like they can and get rid of the cheap shots. If they really settle their game down and play a simpler game I think they can advance in this tournament.

:up:

[movieking]

Brett Hull is not playing tonight. Great decision in my opinion. They need more speed.

Team USA scratches Hull

Canadian Press

9/3/2004

ST. PAUL, Minn. (CP) - American coach Ron Wilson elected to take NHL star Brett Hull out of his World Cup lineup for a game against Slovakia on Friday.

Forwards Craig Conroy and Brian Ralston will join Hull in the press box as the U.S. tries to rebound from tournament losses to Canada and Russia.

Jeff Halpern, Jamie Langenbrunner and Bryan Smolinski will be inserted into the lineup after missing Thursday's 3-1 loss to Russia.

Wilson felt that a big shakeup was needed for the team's final round-robin game.

``It's not like they don't want to win,'' he said after Thursday night's loss. ``But they look like they're caught in a rut.

``We need some guys to come into our lineup, get back to basics and take some small steps.''

[movieking]

Also, Germany is resting Kolzig today in favor of Muller. They want to rest Kolzig for the playoffs. Sucks for me, since I have money on Germany.

The Czechs have Reichel out today, but Hejduk is in.

[Jericho]

Originally posted by movieking
The regular round really means nothing though, as everyone advances. It only sets the seeds for the playoffs, and I really think that any team can lose on any day in this tournament, since each team is full of superstars.

Except Germany :D

[movieking]

More changes for the US tonight:

In/Out

Goalie

Dipietro---------Esche
Conklin----------N/A

Forward

Smolinski-------------Hull
Langenbrunner-----Rolston
Halpern--------------Conroy

Defense

Martin----------------Liles
Klee------------------Weinrich

[movieking]

Czechs are now up 6-1 over Germany. After a scoreless first period, the Czechs got three goals in under three minutes and blew the game open.

There goes my bet :(

I hope that Chara does to Tkachuk tonight what he did to McCabe of the Leafs last season.

[mautos]

Esche will be back in for the playoff round, no doubt about it...Liles...didn't impress me all that much. Glad to see Hull out, he's been floating way too much, Rolston I have a feeling will be back in there cause he always plays with grit. Either way I'm looking forward to the Canada vs. Russia game tomorrow night.

[TheNightFlier]

Originally posted by mautos
Come on, are you really kidding me? I'm not an American fan obviously living in Canada and all, but are you seriously telling me you'd rather have a 19 year old Zach PArise than a Brett Hull, or Konawalchuk? The kid is too young, and does not have the experience to play in this tourney. Come to think of Suter and Miller dont either. York and Malone are possibilities, but even then I don't know who you'd take off for them. The USA just needs to focus on playing good old time hockey like they can and get rid of the cheap shots. If they really settle their game down and play a simpler game I think they can advance in this tournament.

No im not kidding you...And did I mention Brett Hull anywhere in there? No I did not....If you watched the game last night it was pretty obvious that the US team has absolutely zero speed as the Russians skated circles around them.

Parise and Suter both have international experience from the World Junior Tourneys. I'd rather see Suter on the blueline than Liles. The team sorely misses Schneider and Hatcher

I'd rather have Parise (who's actually 20 and will be on the Devils roster next season, if there is one), Miller, Parrish, or Malone, rather than Conklin, Halpern, Klee, and Weinrich.

Playing a senior game isn't going to get them far when they take shifts off and don't show up in the 1st period. They're not going to win a game unless they establish themselves physically and start moving without the puck. 3 guys in the corner cycling is all well and good, but if none of them go to the net, they're not going to score.

[movieking]

Less than 10 minutes into the first, and Tkachuk has two interference penalties (one for goaltender interference), one causing the Slovaks to tie the game 1-1.

In the meanwhile, Chara looked like he wanted a piece of him earlier in the game. Hopefully, by the end, he will get a piece.

[TheNightFlier]

A lot better overall effort tonight for the US team...

DiPietro looked good in net...Tkachuk still taking stupid penalties though.

The Blake-Drury-Gomez(Langenbrunner) combos were flying out there....

Funny, no Brett Hull=Win ;)

[wolverine1028]

Team USA sucks!

Go Team Canada!

Good day, eh...

[movieking]

Can't wait for Russia and Canada tonight. I hate to say it, but I think that the Russians may take it tonight. I would rather that Canada loses this game tonight and wins in the playoffs, rather than follow their traditional path, which is to go through the regular round undefeated, and lose in the playoffs.

[astrochimp]

Looking forward to the Canada/Russia game too and the Sweden/Finland one this afternoon should also be a good one with both teams 2-0 so far.

[TheMadMonk]

Looks like here in the states we won't get to see the 2 games today. Grrrr. Both should be great games, too. God, I hate college football.

[LaxBandit]

Originally posted by TheMadMonk
Looks like here in the states we won't get to see the 2 games today. Grrrr. Both should be great games, too. God, I hate college football.

LB: Whoo Hoo! Thank goodness for living near the border and getting CBC! Will be able to watch the Finland-Sweden/Canada-Russia games today as well as the Russia-Slovakia game on Sunday. (Even though I'm a college football junkie, I'm going to take advantage in watching the two games today LIVE as due to work, I've been stuck watching these games via videotape. There is good news and I do have off for the championship game, hopefully its a Canada-United States rematch!) Gotta root for Canada tonight and Russia tomarrow to both win so theres no Canada-United States quarterfinal. (Canada will finish first, Russia second, United States third and Slovakia fourth. Thus eliminates a three-way tie of Russia-Slovakia-United States and a chance of United States finishing fourth.)

LB...

[astrochimp]

Finland and Sweden really dont like each other it seems ;)

[astrochimp]

Great 1st period:Finland 3 Sweden 3.Note to my Canadian team if you play Sweden dont give them any power plays ;)

[dstrauss]

The Finland/Sweden game is available free on espnbroadband.com, although unfortunately you have to use the crappy MSIE for it.

Currently 4-3 Finland late in the 2nd.

[movieking]

Great game so far, a lot of back and forth. Only a couple of minutes left in the third, and it is still 4-3

[movieking]

Fins tie, but yet win!

10 seconds away from winning in regulation, but the Swedes tie it on a 6 on 4 (power play plus empty net). Regardless, the Swedes had to win to clinch first because of the goals for/against formula, and could not pull it out in a great OT.

I love this tournament! This is better hockey than you will see anywhere this year, even if the NHL goes back.

[astrochimp]

Very good game and with the tie Finland gets Germany and the Swedes(who needed a win not a tie) will face the Czechs.

[lordzeppelin]

So let me get this straight...the Canada vs. Russia game tonight is NOT on TV in the US? WTF?

[astrochimp]

3-1 Canada over Russia :)

[movieking]

Good game. Fast paced, back and forth.

If the Russians would pass a bit more instead of trying to beat the whole opposition by themselves, they would do better.

[movieking]

Hull: "I Don't Give A Fuck About The Fans Anymore"

Like we needed more proof that he is a fuckhead. The happiest day for me in the last couple of months was when he finally left my Red Wings. He should have been benched for the playoffs IMO based on his play.

Hull storms out of Team USA practice

9/5/2004

ST. PAUL, Minn. (CP) - A winner of the World Cup of Hockey tournament has yet to be crowned but Brett Hull already is assured an award - Most Unhappy Player.

Hull, a healthy scratch for Team USA's win over Slovakia, showed up for practice Sunday to find he had been assigned the same green sweater as other Friday scrubs, and he didn't like it one bit. He left the ice 10 minutes before his teammates, again declined interview requests and was out of the Xcel Energy Center in a hurry.

The third-leading goal scorer in NHL history could not have expected to be a spare part in what is probably his last major international tournament for the United States, for whom he's performed beyond the call of duty. To say he's frustrated is putting it mildly.

``Got a minute to talk to reporters, Brett?'' Hull was asked in a corridor outside the dressing room.

``What would I have to talk about?'' he replied.

``Fans want to know how you're doing,'' said the reporter.

``I don't give a (deleted) about the fans anymore,'' said Hull.

End of conversation.

A few minutes later, as Hull headed for an arena exit, he again was asked for a minute of his time. He just kept walking.

The 40-year-old scoring machine has filled reporters' notebooks with candid comments during his remarkable career, which makes his disdainful demeanour now all the more shocking.

``He shouldn't be happy about it and he's not,'' centre Doug Weight said of Hull's reaction to his diminished role. ``But you don't want a teammate who doesn't give two cares about being in the lineup or not, and he cares and he's upset about it.

``If he doesn't want to talk to (reporters) about it, that's part of it. It's part of our job, I agree. But it's (Hull's) right (not to do interviews), I guess.

``He's always given (reporters) plenty to write. He's done a great job performing that part of his job. If something's bothering him or if he doesn't feel like talking for a couple of days, I don't think that should, in a 20-year career, be something that's held against him.''

When the team got wind of Hull's profanity-spiked comment, further attempts were made by the media relations staff to get him to consent to an interview. He again refused.

Coach Ron Wilson was asked if he'd put Hull back in the lineup for a quarter-final elimination game Tuesday. He couldn't say that he would, adding lineup decisions will be made game day. That's not the vote of confidence Hull was looking for.

Wilson would look like a motivational genius if Hull scores a big goal and the Americans win Tuesday. Hull could then take the post-game podium and break his silence, smiling all the while. But if that doesn't happen, one of the greatest players to ever wear the red, white and blue will exit the international stage with a sour taste in his mouth.

The situation isn't harming the team, said Weight.

``He has done nothing to affect our chemistry in a bad way,'' said Weight. ``He has been fine.

``When he gets out there again, he'll still be the most dangerous player on the ice.''

Alas, there won't be a huge audience in the United States. Terry, who at about 550 kilograms is the largest pig in Minnesota, is enjoying more of the public's attention at the state fair than the World Cup is in these parts. No American channel carried the Canada-Russia game Saturday night.

U.S. general manager Larry Pleau went to a hockey pub to see if it had a CBC signal but, no, college football ruled.

Captain Chris Chelios, Hull, Brian Leetch and a handful of others have been U.S. teammates forever - or so it seems.

``We're a close group,'' said Chelios, 42. ``Brett and I are honoured, at our ages, to be part of this team.

``If I have to sit out or Brett has to sit out and if it's for the better of the team, so be it. We know Brett's going to be there for us if he's called on. Hopefully, we've got three more games and he'll be a part of it and get the opportunity to win a game for us.''

Hull wants that chance to let his stick do the talking.

[TheNightFlier]

Funny, where's the guy that was defending Hull being on the team the other day...?

Sorry, but if you're completely ineffective out there you deserve to be scratched.

He was floating and not getting back on D. Wilson made the right decision and if he keeps this attitude he deserves to be scratched again...

[mautos]

Originally posted by TheNightFlier
Funny, where's the guy that was defending Hull being on the team the other day...?

Sorry, but if you're completely ineffective out there you deserve to be scratched.

He was floating and not getting back on D. Wilson made the right decision and if he keeps this attitude he deserves to be scratched again...
I'm right here...and so by this comment are you trying to tell me that having Zach Parise in the lineup over Brett Hull would really make the US any better than 1-2? I know he was floating, and I don't think he should have been in the lineup based on his play. But pre-tournament selections, you'd have to be a terrible manager to select Zach Parise to play over Brett Hull. Now he is dragging his ass on the ice, and I understand that...but he is a powerplay specialist, and in a big game would probably play better than Parrish.

[vdadlani219]

What? No love for Alexander Ovechkin's 1st goal in his 1st game?

Only a sign of things to come from him (whenever the next NHL game is played).

[ElementZ]

Originally posted by vdadlani219
What? No love for Alexander Ovechkin's 1st goal in his 1st game?

Only a sign of things to come from him (whenever the next NHL game is played).

That was a big time backhand shot, it was nice. I liked his physical play a lot to. I think he would make a good transition, he dominates the world juniors and the russian league he plays in every year. Now he is playing with the big boys and scored a goal in his first game which he is only getting very limited minutes. Granted, you cannot tell anything with one game, but he has got the size and skill, hopefully he will have the determination.

Anyone ever notice that since Kovulchuk came into the league, he reminds me of a young Pavel Bure.

[mautos]

Ovechkin was looking good out there, held his own which is nice to see for an 18 year old. Kovalchuk in my opinion is more complete than Pavel cause he does use the body a bit more, which is nice to see

[vdadlani219]

In the last year, Kovalchuk really improved his back-checking and his overall game (adding some physical) play, but Bure was a far superior pure goal scorer.

Bure was/is the most pure goal scorer since the 80's.

[ElementZ]

Wonder when Pavel will ever be healthy to play again. I loved when he was a canuck, he was super explosive.

[Jericho]

Originally posted by ElementZ
Wonder when Pavel will ever be healthy to play again. I loved when he was a canuck, he was super explosive.

Probably never. I have to say Kovalchuk is damn amazing though. His game is a bit different from Bure's, but you have to be amazed at what he's done on a crappy team at his age and in this version of the NHL (i.e. the one where no one scores anymore).

[ElementZ]

It would be some nice to have Heatly and Kovulchuk to build the team around. I really think Heatly will be the MVP in 3 years or less.

World Cup note - Fins beat the germans today 2-1.

[mautos]

Originally posted by ElementZ
It would be some nice to have Heatly and Kovulchuk to build the team around. I really think Heatly will be the MVP in 3 years or less.

World Cup note - Fins beat the germans today 2-1.
One of the two of them will be an MVP...just depends on who is giving the passes, and who is receiving them.

[movieking]

The Czech Republic beat Sweden 6-1 in their quarterfinal match at the World Cup of Hockey. Definitely an upset in my opinion. I was thinking that Sweden could be the team to beat. And the Czechs trounced them!

[astrochimp]

I was a bit suprised to see that result or atleast by such a wide margin but the Czechs certainly have alot of talent and in these single elimination games anything can happen.

[TheMadMonk]

The Swedes just plain sucked this game. The Czechs played well, but not that well. The Swedes just didn't show up.

[Jericho]

Matching their '02 Olympic performance, the Swedes look awesome in pool play only to immediately bomb out in single elimination

[astrochimp]

Good 1st period for the US.

[Jericho]

That Frolov high stick non-goal was pretty impressive even if it didn't count.

[TheNightFlier]

Originally posted by mautos
I'm right here...and so by this comment are you trying to tell me that having Zach Parise in the lineup over Brett Hull would really make the US any better than 1-2? I know he was floating, and I don't think he should have been in the lineup based on his play. But pre-tournament selections, you'd have to be a terrible manager to select Zach Parise to play over Brett Hull. Now he is dragging his ass on the ice, and I understand that...but he is a powerplay specialist, and in a big game would probably play better than Parrish.

After that little tirade he threw, I would have booted him right off the team. And as of right now I'd rather have a kid who's gonna bust his ass and want to play for the team than a past his prime superstar who basically said F everything and the fans cause he didn't get his way.

He's not in the lineup tonight and the US is beating Russia, I think it's safe to say Team USA can do without Brett Hull and his "me me me" attitude. He can takes his 740 goals and stick them up his ass since he isn't doing shit on the ice and bringing his ego to a team that doesn't need it.

Some people are too blinded by numbers when picking people for a team. I'll take Halpern, Blake, Konolwulchuk, Smolinski, and other less skill grit guys that care.

[Copenhagen]

I missed the first 50 minutes, but am glad I got to watch the last 10 :up:

[astrochimp]

Monster game for Tkachuk or as they would say when i use to play NHL Open Ice "Ka Chooooooooooooook!" :D

[mautos]

Originally posted by TheNightFlier
After that little tirade he threw, I would have booted him right off the team. And as of right now I'd rather have a kid who's gonna bust his ass and want to play for the team than a past his prime superstar who basically said F everything and the fans cause he didn't get his way.

He's not in the lineup tonight and the US is beating Russia, I think it's safe to say Team USA can do without Brett Hull and his "me me me" attitude. He can takes his 740 goals and stick them up his ass since he isn't doing shit on the ice and bringing his ego to a team that doesn't need it.

Some people are too blinded by numbers when picking people for a team. I'll take Halpern, Blake, Konolwulchuk, Smolinski, and other less skill grit guys that care.

So you are honestly telling me that PRE TOURNAMENT you would have selected Smolinski or Parise without a second thought? That is ludicrous, Parise has no played 1 NHL game in his LIFE, and his World Junior experience does not count for the weight of a torunament like this. And I would hardly call Smolinski not past his prime. And btw do not compare Ovechkin to PArise because Russia had a lot of guys not want to play, and Ovechkin is clearly a more polished player.

[TheNightFlier]

Originally posted by mautos
So you are honestly telling me that PRE TOURNAMENT you would have selected Smolinski or Parise without a second thought? That is ludicrous, Parise has no played 1 NHL game in his LIFE, and his World Junior experience does not count for the weight of a torunament like this. And I would hardly call Smolinski not past his prime. And btw do not compare Ovechkin to PArise because Russia had a lot of guys not want to play, and Ovechkin is clearly a more polished player.

No it really isn't ludicrous actually...to take good players who want to be there (ie. LeClair over Hull)

Uhhh did I compare Ovechkin to Parise anywhere in my post....? Didn't think so, cause it's not even a close comparison between the two...International competition is international competition, so yes it does count for a lot.

Sorry, but i'd have taken John LeClair over Brett Hull in a second. Hull has been known for his little tirades throughout his career.

And no I would've chosen (in no order) Parrish, Parise, O'Sullivan, York, LeClair, Malone, Cole, Legwand, Marchant, or Arnason pre-tournament, before I selected Smolinski, Halpern, Blake, or Hull.

[dstrauss]

Originally posted by TheNightFlier
And no I would've chosen (in no order) Parrish, Parise, O'Sullivan, York, LeClair, Malone, Cole, Legwand, Marchant, or Arnason pre-tournament, before I selected Smolinski, Halpern, Blake, or Hull.

I'll leave the other names for someone else to discuss, but as a Islander fan who's seen pretty much every game for the last quarter century or so, if you would have taken Parrish over Blake then you're not very aware of how they play or how they've been playing. Blake was probably the Isles' MVP the last two years and deserved a slot of the team far more than Parrish, who is a floaty streaky player.

[mautos]

Originally posted by TheNightFlier
No it really isn't ludicrous actually...to take good players who want to be there (ie. LeClair over Hull)

Uhhh did I compare Ovechkin to Parise anywhere in my post....? Didn't think so, cause it's not even a close comparison between the two...International competition is international competition, so yes it does count for a lot.

Sorry, but i'd have taken John LeClair over Brett Hull in a second. Hull has been known for his little tirades throughout his career.

And no I would've chosen (in no order) Parrish, Parise, O'Sullivan, York, LeClair, Malone, Cole, Legwand, Marchant, or Arnason pre-tournament, before I selected Smolinski, Halpern, Blake, or Hull.
I realise you never compared the two, i was just stating that there is no comparison right now. And to not select Brett Hull to team USA because of his "tirades" is just nonsense. I just can't comprehend your logic, give me one previous example of a Brett Hull tirade in a USA uniform? You are not basing your opinion on pre tournament selections, you are simply trying to give your argument based on events which unfolded within the last week. And John LeClair? His back is as reliable as Hull's defence, and he manages to score less goals and points then Hull even when he plays close to a full season.

[B.A.]

Originally posted by astrochimp
Monster game for Tkachuk or as they would say when i use to play NHL Open Ice "Ka Chooooooooooooook!" :D If the Blues ever play another playoff game again - they need to hypnotize Keith and tell him that he is playing for Team USA in a major world tournament, not the Blues.

[Jericho]

Now that he's been mentioned, I'm surprised David Legwand isn't on Team USA. What's up with that one?

[TheNightFlier]

Originally posted by dstrauss
I'll leave the other names for someone else to discuss, but as a Islander fan who's seen pretty much every game for the last quarter century or so, if you would have taken Parrish over Blake then you're not very aware of how they play or how they've been playing. Blake was probably the Isles' MVP the last two years and deserved a slot of the team far more than Parrish, who is a floaty streaky player.

I'm also an Isles fan and very aware of how they play. Blake's tunnel vision is his major downfall...And he's rarely used the right on the team, he's a 3rd/4th line energy guy who's great on the PK and gets under everyone's skin. Which is why he's effective on Team USA. Stirling should be taking notes. I like his hustle and stuff, but the contract they gave him is wayyyy more than he's worth. If you want an Isles MVP for this season...ahem, Trent Hunter.

Parrish unfortunately is too streaky, and only contributes for half of a season, then disappears. The only reason the Isles keep him is cause he's the only one with the balls to stand in front of the net and go for garbage goals and deflections. Who else is gonna do that? Rarely you'll see Scatchard or Peca do it. Parrish's hand/eye coordination is probably one of the best in the league.


Originally posted by mautos I realise you never compared the two, i was just stating that there is no comparison right now. And to not select Brett Hull to team USA because of his "tirades" is just nonsense. I just can't comprehend your logic, give me one previous example of a Brett Hull tirade in a USA uniform? You are not basing your opinion on pre tournament selections, you are simply trying to give your argument based on events which unfolded within the last week. And John LeClair? His back is as reliable as Hull's defence, and he manages to score less goals and points then Hull even when he plays close to a full season.

The guy has thrown tirades all throughout his career in Dallas, St. Louis, and Detroit. Hell, it all started when he turned his back on Canada to play for the US.

My pre-tournament selection wouldn't even include Hull, an aging past his prime superstar who only gets points on the PP nowadays. Yeah he's gonna keep up with St. Louis, Richards, Iginla, Lecavalier, Heatley, Gagne, or Smyth when the US plays Canada again. Arnason, Legwand, or Cole belong out there before him. Youth, skill, speed, and grit..Hull has one of those. He was great four years ago at the Olympics but it's time for him to step aside and let a younger player step in.

I'll take my chances on LeClair's back and his ability to park himself in front of the net and work along the boards rather than Hull's great "one timer" which he fanned on about 5 times in the games he played, his floating, and non-existant defense. Pure and simply LeClair is bigger, stronger, and a harder worker than Hull, which is what Team USA needs. What the team doesn't need is a guy who stands there slapping his stick on the ice and not doing anything.

[mautos]

Originally posted by TheNightFlier
My pre-tournament selection wouldn't even include Hull, an aging past his prime superstar who only gets points on the PP nowadays. Yeah he's gonna keep up with St. Louis, Richards, Iginla, Lecavalier, Heatley, Gagne, or Smyth when the US plays Canada again. Arnason, Legwand, or Cole belong out there before him. Youth, skill, speed, and grit..Hull has one of those. He was great four years ago at the Olympics but it's time for him to step aside and let a younger player step in.


Okay, so in your opiniopn john leclair provides youth, and speed? If that is what you think USA should have (And I don't disagree) then why put Chelios on the team? Why put Brian Leetch on the team? (Who is also a powerplay specialist, I should know he's a Leaf) Why Smolinski? The point is Brett Hull is in tyhe core group of team USA, and he is still putting up close to 30 goals a year. Despite his obvious lack of defence he is still one of the better powerplay specialists in the league, and what team doesn't need that in this tournament?

Originally posted by TheNightFlier
I'll take my chances on LeClair's back and his ability to park himself in front of the net and work along the boards rather than Hull's great "one timer" which he fanned on about 5 times in the games he played, his floating, and non-existant defense. Pure and simply LeClair is bigger, stronger, and a harder worker than Hull, which is what Team USA needs. What the team doesn't need is a guy who stands there slapping his stick on the ice and not doing anything. [/B]

If you have John LeClair parked in front of the net, where does Keith Tkachuk go on the powerplay? Where does Bill Guerin go? Or Brian Rolston? All big guys that team USA already has, and frankly I don't think they need anymore of. They need some finesse to mix along with the grit that they already have an abundance of.

And also, Brett Hull's tirade on turning on team canada...it wasn't a tirade, he was a duel citizen, and he couldn't cut it on team canada so he got cut and left for the US. Seems like the same thing you or I would do if we had the same opportunity he did. I'm from Canada, and I'm not too broken up about it...

[TheNightFlier]

Originally posted by mautos
If you have John LeClair parked in front of the net, where does Keith Tkachuk go on the powerplay? Where does Bill Guerin go? Or Brian Rolston? All big guys that team USA already has, and frankly I don't think they need anymore of. They need some finesse to mix along with the grit that they already have an abundance of.

And also, Brett Hull's tirade on turning on team canada...it wasn't a tirade, he was a duel citizen, and he couldn't cut it on team canada so he got cut and left for the US. Seems like the same thing you or I would do if we had the same opportunity he did. I'm from Canada, and I'm not too broken up about it...

Yes I know he was a duel citizen, but he also made a stink about not getting on the Canadian team and basically said "fuck them, I'm gonna go play for one of your rivals because I can" The guy has always been out for himself, and has never been a team player.

Rolston plays the point on the PP, so you can eliminate him. Guerin does the dirty work along the boards. Tkachuk could setup in front on the 1st PP unit and LeClair would be on the second.

Tkachuk-Modano-Guerin
Rolston-Leetch

LeClair-Weight(Gomez)-Amonte
Rolston-Leetch

I hope you're not saying Brett Hull=finesse...He has as much finesse as Chara...

If you want finesse players add Legwand or Arnason to the mix. Two smaller players who can handle the puck, dance around guys, and setup the likes of Tkachuk, Guerin, and Modano.

[mautos]

Originally posted by TheNightFlier
Yes I know he was a duel citizen, but he also made a stink about not getting on the Canadian team and basically said "fuck them, I'm gonna go play for one of your rivals because I can" The guy has always been out for himself, and has never been a team player.

Rolston plays the point on the PP, so you can eliminate him. Guerin does the dirty work along the boards. Tkachuk could setup in front on the 1st PP unit and LeClair would be on the second.

Tkachuk-Modano-Guerin
Rolston-Leetch

LeClair-Weight(Gomez)-Amonte
Rolston-Leetch

I hope you're not saying Brett Hull=finesse...He has as much finesse as Chara...

If you want finesse players add Legwand or Arnason to the mix. Two smaller players who can handle the puck, dance around guys, and setup the likes of Tkachuk, Guerin, and Modano.
Hah, no Hull is not finesse, he is a pure scorer tho on the powerplay, and I don't think either one of us could deny that fact. We should have our own damn thread...lol. Umm, but back on topic, he still is a powerplay specialist who could help the USA if was used in those situations, more so than Parrish, Parise, Arnason...etc... he doesn't need to play defence then if he doesn't want to. Legwand and Arnason are not ready for the World Cup of Hockey, I don't think either one of them are an elite athlete at this point in their careers, thus should not be added to the US team. Hull is still a better choice even if only for the powerplay than either of those two. Indisputable in my mind.

Go Canada, somewhat big game tonight...predicting a solid defeat of the Slovakians.

[astrochimp]

Im hoping Iginla will break out tonight like Tkachuk did for the US last night :D Go Canada! :)

[TheNightFlier]

Originally posted by mautos
Hah, no Hull is not finesse, he is a pure scorer tho on the powerplay, and I don't think either one of us could deny that fact. We should have our own damn thread...lol. Umm, but back on topic, he still is a powerplay specialist who could help the USA if was used in those situations, more so than Parrish, Parise, Arnason...etc... he doesn't need to play defence then if he doesn't want to. Legwand and Arnason are not ready for the World Cup of Hockey, I don't think either one of them are an elite athlete at this point in their careers, thus should not be added to the US team. Hull is still a better choice even if only for the powerplay than either of those two. Indisputable in my mind.

Go Canada, somewhat big game tonight...predicting a solid defeat of the Slovakians.

haha oh come on, like Konolwulchuk, Halpern, Blake, or Smolinkski are elite athletes?

Youth and speed are the things highlighted in this tournament, just look at the Russians skating circles around the older US players.

Canada will easily beat Slovakia unless they get really overconfident.

And what do you think about Aucoin or McCabe not being put on the Canadian roster? Both are better choices IMO than Hannon or Bouwmeester.

[astrochimp]

I thought the selections of Hannan and Bouwmeester were good ones,Hannans a physical stay at home defenceman and Jay can really move the puck well and isnt prone to making many mistakes.As much as i like McCabe(as a Leafs fan) he makes me nervous sometimes with his decisions and thats something you dont want in this kinda tournament.I cant really comment on Aucoin since i haevnt seen alot of him recently.

[astrochimp]

Well,almost a goal for Iginla :/

[movieking]

Originally posted by mautos
And to not select Brett Hull to team USA because of his "tirades" is just nonsense.

There are a number of reasons that Hull should not have been selected, including his age, his inability (or desire) to play defense, and the fact that he is not (and never has been) a team player. I don't think that he would have made Team Canada (although for some reason Gretzky seems to have a huge hard on for him). His forte is exploting weak defenses, which should be hard in a tournament filled with All Stars (and Germans ;) )

Great first period in the Canada and Slovakia game.

For those watching it on CBC, is it just me, or is Brian Burke just awful? He is so wooden and monotonic that he makes "Around The World" unbearable, which is too bad because I really like Ron MacLean and Kelly Hrudey.

And did anyone else think that the Russian coach was a dead ringer for Robert Carlyle?

[movieking]

What a surprise, Burke is defending Bertuzzi. :rolleyes: Bertuzzi should be in jail, IMO. There was nothing similar to it. It was not like McSorley/Brashear, since that was not premeditated. Moore was harrassed for the whole game, a bounty was on his head, and Bertuzzi intended to cause injury. If he never played hockey again, I would be happy. After all of these months, I am still sickened by it.

But I digress :)

Back to your regular thread!

[astrochimp]

Brian Burke always sounds that way,not sure why anyone ever thought hed be good on TV.As far as Bertuzzi i would have had him on the team initially but after after the incident im glad he wasnt added as it would have been a sideshow to the actual team and the tournament.

[astrochimp]

The Lightning connection strikes :D

[astrochimp]

Nice goal by Lemieux,or was it Iginla? ;) either way its 2-0 :D

[astrochimp]

Smyth makes it 3-0 and a beauty goal by Sakic from Lemieux and Iginla to make it 4-0 :)

[Darkfriend]

I'm glad for Lemieux, that goal made me feel nostalgic.

[astrochimp]

Well i got my wish,Iggy's on his game tonight 5-0 :D

[astrochimp]

Canada vs the Czechs on Saturday night,should be a good one :)

[mautos]

Originally posted by TheNightFlier
haha oh come on, like Konolwulchuk, Halpern, Blake, or Smolinkski are elite athletes?

Youth and speed are the things highlighted in this tournament, just look at the Russians skating circles around the older US players.

Canada will easily beat Slovakia unless they get really overconfident.

And what do you think about Aucoin or McCabe not being put on the Canadian roster? Both are better choices IMO than Hannon or Bouwmeester.
In regards to Hannon, he had an excellent playoff containing forsberg and other superstars around the league so I like his selection, and Bouwmeester was originally picked to not play and just have the experience but he was forced into action with injuries and has done well. McCabe is an excellent offensive player, but sometimes he has brain cramps in the defernsive end, and he may not have been the perfect selection just yet. Give him a few years and I think he will be okay. Aucoin is a smooth skating defenceman, with great offensive abilities, as far as his defence, I'm afraid I don't follow the Isles that much. I do know he was in the running to be picked, but I like the selections for the team thus far.

[astrochimp]

US playing Finland right now,im hoping for a US win and of course a Canada win tomorrow for USA/Canada final :)

[astrochimp]

Yikes,Koivu scores late in the 3rd to give the Fins a 2-1 lead but penalty to Berg so a good chance for the US to tie it up ;)

[astrochimp]

Well there goes one half of my final hopefuls :( Finland played a good game and did what they had to do to win even if it wasnt the most exciting game to watch.

[movieking]

I am glad that the Finns won. Nice to see different teams in the finals.

[TheMadMonk]

Yeah, the US never really won back my support after their poor start. I would have liked to see them vs Canada, though.

[LaxBandit]

Originally posted by movieking
I am glad that the Finns won. Nice to see different teams in the finals.

LB: So that means that Canada has to lose tonight right? Afterall if the United States can't be in the final, then Canada can't either. Hey if one of the teams has to be different, we might as well go all the way and have two different teams. Man, wouldn't that pissed off the people that run the tourney huh? Couldn't get the matchup they wanted in the final! LOL! So go Czechs! J/K, actually I want Canada to win tonight so they can lose in the final!

Well a double whammy last night for me, the United States losing and I found out earlier in the day that due to a shortage of workers, I'm "forced" to work on Tuesday evening so I'm unable to watch the final LIVE. (The boss didn't say but I think he didn't want to fill in so he could watch the final LIVE himself!)

Oh well, I'm used to watching the games late at night/early the next morning as due to work/other sports events, I've only watch three complete games LIVE (United States-Canada, Sweden-Finland and Russia-Canada) anyway. But still would have been nice to watch the final LIVE even if its going to be Finland-Czech Republic or Finland beating the crap outta Canada!

LB...

[astrochimp]

Brodeur out with a sprained wrist,looks like Roberto Luongo will get the start.

[movieking]

Originally posted by LaxBandit
LB: So that means that Canada has to lose tonight right? Afterall if the United States can't be in the final, then Canada can't either. Hey if one of the teams has to be different, we might as well go all the way and have two different teams. Man, wouldn't that pissed off the people that run the tourney huh? Couldn't get the matchup they wanted in the final! LOL! So go Czechs! J/K, actually I want Canada to win tonight so they can lose in the final!


I would be perfectly happy if the Czechs beat Canada. I am getting sick of how North American-centric these tournaments tend to be. At least CBC showed all of the games, which was great. If Canada loses, it is not a big deal. It's a freakin' hockey tournament. Get a grip.

I am wondering should Canada win tonight with Luongo would they go back to Brodeur for the championships if he is healthy. I am assuming that they would, since he is the number one goalie, and he won all of the games so far to get them this far.

Regardless, it's a rough situation for Luongo. He plays tonight. He loses, he is the scapegoat, since Brodeur didn't lose. He wins, and he likely gets benched in favor of Brodeur, despite winning the game that got them to the finals.

[astrochimp]

Go Canada :)

[Quake1028]

Amazing game going on! 3-3 with about 2 mins left!

[astrochimp]

We're going to OT,i dont know if i can watch this lol.

[Quake1028]

WTF? Are they not showing OT in the US? They switched to a college football game.

[astrochimp]

Whoo hoo!!!!!!!!! Lecavalier scores the winner,whew! lol.We were lucky to get away with a win in this one,Czechs outplayed us i thought but we'll take it ;)

[Quake1028]

God damn I swear to God ESPN is the worst fucking network on tv.

[astrochimp]

Thats a bummer they did that Quake :(

[Quake1028]

Yeah I love college football and all but come on it's an early season game between two unranked teams. Give me a fucking break.

[TheNightFlier]

I'm in NY and I got to see the OT on ESPN...weird.

Sweet goal by Lecavalier. It's gonna be interesting to see if Finland can contain Team Canada with their trap..

[Quake1028]

I'm in Florida, which is SEC country, so maybe that's why.

[Dr_Evil]

Yeah it was a regional thing. I got to see the OT in colorado. Glad to see Canada win, and Lemieux play well. It's sad that the last big time hockey game of the season (until the Frozen Four I guess) is on tomorrow.

[Jericho]

Originally posted by Quake1028
WTF? Are they not showing OT in the US? They switched to a college football game.

They showed the OT here in Maryland

[mautos]

Originally posted by TheNightFlier
I'm in NY and I got to see the OT on ESPN...weird.

Sweet goal by Lecavalier. It's gonna be interesting to see if Finland can contain Team Canada with their trap..
Well it's going to be an interesting game for sure, I will be at the game all decked out in the red and white, so this better be good. I've never been to a game that will have such electricity in the ACC, because I normally just go to regular season games. I'm stoked for this one tho...GO CANADA GO

[astrochimp]

Lucky you mautos,have fun and Go Canada! :)

[mautos]

Originally posted by astrochimp
Lucky you mautos,have fun and Go Canada! :)
HAH Damn right, game of a lifetime for sure, i will have pics when i get back

[astrochimp]

I will be out tonight but i will be watching the game so hopefully when i get home i can post a Whoo Hoo! :D and not a boo hoo :(

Go Canada! :)

[Darkfriend]

Good game so far but I'm already thinking about the lock out :(

Let the owners lose some money a bit and the players lose a couple of paychecks and we'll probably have some hockey in january.

Both parties are to blame; the owners for allowing big contracts for "superstars" and the players for singing the same song about how they "just LOVE to play the game" and the Evil owners are to blame...

Pricks...

[astrochimp]

Well im home and here's my official post:Whoo Hoo!!!!!!!!!! :) Way to go boys! :D

[Preacher]

:D Good win guys. Now go enjoy Offseason 2: The Winter Months.