Ranking WC teams

Well, from a very preliminary glace, I'd rank Canada as the favorite(they have Brodeur, among other things), with Russia a close second(they are very young). At this point, I don't think the other teams have rosters as talented as these two. Still very dissapointed with all the Swedish no-shows, but hey, more time for Henrik Zetterberg!(He's playing, right?)

I agree, Canada and Russia are definitely the best teams on paper, but all it takes is one hot goaltender to go in and steal a few games, and a team like Finland or the Czech's could easily win.

I agree, Canada and Russia are definitely the best teams on paper, but all it takes is one hot goaltender to go in and steal a few games, and a team like Finland or the Czech's could easily win.

I dunno about Finland, even with Kiprusoff in goal, without many top players the apparent talent gap in the rest of the positions, winning anything significant might be on the scale of Miracle on Ice.

Then again, Sweden and Belarus in 2002 makes you think that kind of thing isn't such an anomaly....

I guess the real point is that it'd be highly unlikely for Finland to beat BOTH Canada and Russia.

Clear that Zetterberg plays!

I dunno about Finland, even with Kiprusoff in goal, without many top players the apparent talent gap in the rest of the positions, winning anything significant might be on the scale of Miracle on Ice.

Then again, Sweden and Belarus in 2002 makes you think that kind of thing isn't such an anomaly....

I guess the real point is that it'd be highly unlikely for Finland to beat BOTH Canada and Russia.

I agree with you to an extent. However, just because the team isn't full of NHL players it doesn't mean that it isn't competitive. After all, this is a team full of players that have been playing throughout the season for the Finnish/Swedish/Swiss/German elite leagues. The Canadian team is full of players that have been sitting idle for a long time now....The rust might show in this competition.

The Canadian team is full of players that have been sitting idle for a long time now....The rust might show in this competition.

I think that's the key question. There's no doubt Canada has the best team on paper, but with a half-team who didn't play any competitive hockey since last season, it's hard to guess how strong they really are. The US, Czech, Slovakian and Russian rosters look good, while those of Sweden and Finland may lack some big names, but still look very solid to me. I really have a hard time picking a favorite.

I think the Czechs are the sleeper of this tourney -- lot of firepower up front.

The Czechs are my favorite, followed by Canada and Russia.

1. Canada
2. Czech Republic
3. Russia
4. USA
5. Slovakia
6. Sweden

This I think is more just the rankings going into the tournament, this doesnt neccessarily represent how I think things will end up.

I think the Czechs are looking way better than Russia on paper. Sure, Russia's loaded up with more offense, but I'm not sure they even have one decent defenseman or any goalies. Meanwhile the Czech's have a pretty comparable offense, good defensive forwards, a solid solid defensive unit and top-notch goaltending in Vokoun.

1. Canada
2. Czechs
3. USA
4. Slovakia ( Always overlooked. Lasak's playing well )
5. Sweden ( Lundqvist is underrated )
6. Russia
7. Finland

I think the Czechs are the sleeper of this tourney -- lot of firepower up front.

Yeah, the Czechs usually play better then they look on paper, too...

I think the Czechs are the best team in terms of combining strength on paper with readiness and conditioning due to having their players playing all season.

1. Canada
2. Czechs
3. USA
4. Slovakia ( Always overlooked. Lasak's playing well )
5. Sweden ( Lundqvist is underrated )
6. Russia
7. Finland

With so much talk about him he can only be overrated...
Lundqvist this, Lundqvist that, the best goalie Sweden ever had, bla, bla...

1. Czechs (great team, a lot of experience, chemistry)
2. Russia (good team, even better coaching staff that knows what to do)
3. Sweden (Sweden is allways Sweden. Contender for the medal, great goalie)
4. Slovakia (weak defence will cost them)
5. USA (apsolutely nothing special)
6. Finland (see above, but maybe I should have put them before the US cause Finland has much more heart and allways plays like a team, but I didn't want to put both NA teams at bottom of my list)
7. Canada (too many rusty players. It would be an injustice if Canada takes a medal, but they will probably surprise me and end up 5th or something like that)

I think the Czechs are looking way better than Russia on paper. Sure, Russia's loaded up with more offense, but I'm not sure they even have one decent defenseman or any goalies. Meanwhile the Czech's have a pretty comparable offense, good defensive forwards, a solid solid defensive unit and top-notch goaltending in Vokoun.

1. Canada
2. Czechs
3. USA
4. Slovakia ( Always overlooked. Lasak's playing well )
5. Sweden ( Lundqvist is underrated )
6. Russia
7. Finland

I remember how lundqvist had like a .942 and a 1.something GAA last year until he played Canada and got completely lit up. NHL shooters>european league shooters.

With so much talk about him he can only be overrated...
Lundqvist this, Lundqvist that, the best goalie Sweden ever had, bla, bla...

1. Czechs (great team, a lot of experience, chemistry)
2. Russia (good team, even better coaching staff that knows what to do)
3. Sweden (Sweden is allways Sweden. Contender for the medal, great goalie)
4. Slovakia (weak defence will cost them)
5. USA (apsolutely nothing special)
6. Finland (see above, but maybe I should have put them before the US cause Finland has much more heart and allways plays like a team, but I didn't want to put both NA teams at bottom of my list)
7. Canada (too many rusty players. It would be an injustice if Canada takes a medal, but they will probably surprise me and end up 5th or something like that)

Sweden is always Sweden? You mean the same country that has one big international win in pretty much their whole history, and is now going into this tournament without their best players (Sundin, Forsberg, Lidstrom). Well, thats your opinion I guess.

Sweden is always Sweden? You mean the same country that has one big international win in pretty much their whole history, and is now going into this tournament without their best players (Sundin, Forsberg, Lidstrom). Well, thats your opinion I guess.

Hey... I'd rather be underrated than overrated. Everyone always expects Sweden to win or finish in the top 3, and lately they have come up flat. Maybe the pressures of having such high expectations is taking it's toll.

:nopity:

Canada should not fare that well, because this is our B, heck, our C squad, + the best goalie in the world. Brodeur's presence will help, but Canada doesn't stand a chance. Too many impact players missing up front and on the blue line.

And to add on my comment, the canadian players that decided not to go could beat every team of this tourney, including the canadian team. Just to show you how important this tourney is to our country.

Canada should not fare that well, because this is our B, heck, our C squad, + the best goalie in the world. Brodeur's presence will help, but Canada doesn't stand a chance. Too many impact players missing up front and on the blue line.

Canada doesn't stand a chance? Did you perchance, notice that many other teams beside Canada are missing their top players? As others have pointed out, Canada's big problem will be that they are probably the most rusty squad, but I think they are probably the most skilled of the teams...

BTW, the teams are all doing exhibiton games now. Canada went 1-1 in 2 games vs the US.

Everyone always expects Sweden to win or finish in the top 3, and lately they have come up flat.

Recent World Championship Record for Sweden
2004 - Silver
2003 - Silver
2002 - Bronze
2001 - Bronze

If winning Silver or Bronze is not finishing top 3, I am pretty confused. Only Canada has been more successful in the recent World Championship tournaments, which is what we are discussing here.

on this board everyone is just saying what he wants to hear or how he wants things to be, not how they are ...

Canada is going to finish 7TH???, or maybe SURPRISE you and finish 5TH!!!
Am i missing something here isnt Canada the best hockey nation in the world, haven't we won this tourney two years in a row with less quailty of players. Okay fine Czech has a good team and so does Russia, but to say Canada is not one of the fav's going in is ridiculous. Sure Canada's missing players, which team isnt. But they still have the best goaltending in Brodeur and Luongo and then a very good defense led by Jovo, Redden, Regehr, and many more quailty D men. Forwards we are not as strong as years past but Nash and Healty will put up big numbers and Thorton, Smith, Gagne and the rest can put up points too. A very good shutdown line in Maltby, Draper and whoever else they have. How in the world can you say Canada will finish last! Either you are completly biased or have no hockey sense. Canada will medel and most likely the colour will be GOLD.

Recent World Championship Record for Sweden
2004 - Silver
2003 - Silver
2002 - Bronze
2001 - Bronze

If winning Silver or Bronze is not finishing top 3, I am pretty confused. Only Canada has been more successful in the recent World Championship tournaments, which is what we are discussing here.

Just ask Mats Wennerholm and he'll tell you how dissappointing the last few years results have been.

It makes me wish that we never should have won those gold medals in the early '90s. It raised expectations and ambitions to a unreasonable level.

And to add on my comment, the canadian players that decided not to go could beat every team of this tourney, including the canadian team. Just to show you how important this tourney is to our country.

Here we go again. While you're at it, why don't you start lecturing about depth...we haven't had one of those lectures for...an hour.

Games are played on the ice. Period.

Recent World Championship Record for Sweden
2004 - Silver
2003 - Silver
2002 - Bronze
2001 - Bronze

If winning Silver or Bronze is not finishing top 3, I am pretty confused. Only Canada has been more successful in the recent World Championship tournaments, which is what we are discussing here.

I was really referring to the more important tournaments such as the olympics and world cup...I realize that Sweden has done well in the world championships. That you are right about. This world championships is a little bit different though, since there are some elite players playing (for some teams at least) that would normally not play.

And to add on my comment, the canadian players that decided not to go could beat every team of this tourney, including the canadian team. Just to show you how important this tourney is to our country.

I also posted a 5 line, 5 pair, 3 goalie Russian roster of players not going ... that second team could beat anyone.
I remember the same was posted for Team Sweden.

Games are played on the ice. Period.

Thank you! :clap:

In hockey you win by the number of goals you score, not the number of teams you can ice at the Worlds.

It is funny how you say Sweden will medal because they have a great goalie. Who is he anyways? But Canada will finish last with may be the number one and number two best goalies in the world. I do not care how long some of the canadian players have been off, they are pro atheletes, they will not have gotten that far out of shape and it will not take them long to get it back.

With so much talk about him he can only be overrated...
Lundqvist this, Lundqvist that, the best goalie Sweden ever had, bla, bla...

1. Czechs (great team, a lot of experience, chemistry)
2. Russia (good team, even better coaching staff that knows what to do)
3. Sweden (Sweden is allways Sweden. Contender for the medal, great goalie)
4. Slovakia (weak defence will cost them)
5. USA (apsolutely nothing special)
6. Finland (see above, but maybe I should have put them before the US cause Finland has much more heart and allways plays like a team, but I didn't want to put both NA teams at bottom of my list)
7. Canada (too many rusty players. It would be an injustice if Canada takes a medal, but they will probably surprise me and end up 5th or something like that)

It is funny how you say Sweden will medal because they have a great goalie. Who is he anyways? But Canada will finish last with may be the number one and number two best goalies in the world. I do not care how long some of the canadian players have been off, they are pro atheletes, they will not have gotten that far out of shape and it will not take them long to get it back.

There are way more than 7 teams in the WC. That said, I don't think Canada will be seventh...more likely in positions from 1st to 4th.

1. Russia. Just amazing how much talent there is on this team. And I think this new coach, Krikunov, is the right man to lead them. Even Yashin looks like he cares.. :amazed:
2. Czech Republic. Great team on paper, always performs well at the Worlds.
3. Canada. Great team, on paper. Several players have been more or less inactive the entire season, that could be a problem.
4. Slovakia. Great offensive players, Chara will be busy back in the defense. They have decent goalies and like the Czechs often performs well at the Worlds.
5. USA. Some decent talent, most of their players have played regularly during the season. Might lack some of the top-end talent the top 3 have.
6. Finland. Interesting, quite young team. No big stars but who cares when they managed to play the final at the World Cup with a team that most thought wouldn't make the semis. Great goaltending and fighting spirit.
7. Sweden. Lacklustre though pretty competent team. Not that many great offensive players apart from Daniel Alfredsson and Henrik Zetterberg. Time for Henrik Lundqvist to show what he's made of, because without a good goalie this team won't make anyone happy. Best young offensive talent - Defenseman Niklas Kronwall, born 1981..

I remember how lundqvist had like a .942 and a 1.something GAA last year until he played Canada and got completely lit up. NHL shooters>european league shooters.

Hes been facing NHL shooters all season in the SEL league , and he just faced a tuff Russian team and did very well. I cant even comment on that game last year because who is to say his defense didnt do anything??

Since everyone is doing their prediction, here is mine:

1) Russia - Great team, Ovechkin is truely dangerous. Some other excellent players on this team. The only question is in goal.
2) Canada - Always great, rarely disappoints.
3) Czheks - Big name players, will Jaromir show up?
4) Finland - I like this team. Not great on paper, but I think they will surprise a few.
5) Sweden - I think Sweden has a chance to finish in the top 3, but will it all come together for them? Not so sure.
6) USA - These guys are good, but chemistry seems to be a problem.
7) Slovakia - Some good players. They may surprise.

Of course I will be rooting for Finland, so I hope they win :cheers:

Since everyone is doing their prediction, here is mine:

1) Russia - Great team, Ovechkin is truely dangerous. Some other excellent players on this team. The only question is in goal.
2) Canada - Always great, rarely disappoints.
3) Czheks - Big name players, will Jaromir show up?
4) Finland - I like this team. Not great on paper, but I think they will surprise a few.
5) Sweden - I think Sweden has a chance to finish in the top 3, but will it all come together for them? Not so sure.
6) USA - These guys are good, but chemistry seems to be a problem.
7) Slovakia - Some good players. They may surprise.

Of course I will be rooting for Finland, so I hope they win :cheers:

Goalies: Ján Lašák (Moeller Pardubice/ČR), Rastislav Staňa (SK Södertälje/Švéd.), Karol Križan (HKm Zvolen)
D-men: Martin Štrbák (CSKA Moskva/Rus.), Ľubomír Višňovský, René Vydarený (obaja Slovan Bratislava), Richard Lintner (Fribourg Gotteron/Švajč.), Zdeno Chára (BK Färjestad/Švéd.), Radoslav Suchý (Tatravagónka ŠKP Poprad), Ivan Majeský (Sparta Praha/ČR), Jaroslav Obšut (HS Lulea/Švéd.), Dominik Graňák (Slavia Praha/ČR), Richard Stehlík (Dukla Trenčín)
Forwards: Žigmund Pálffy, Jozef Stümpel (obaja Slavia Praha/ČR), Miroslav Šatan (Slovan Bratislava), Pavol Demitra, Marián Hossa, Marián Gáborík (všetci Dukla Trenčín), Michal Handzuš, Richard Zedník, Vladimír Országh (všetci HKm Zvolen), Marcel Hossa, Ladislav Nagy (obaja Mora IK/Švéd.), Ľuboš Bartečko (Dinamo Moskva/Rus.), Peter Pucher (Znojemští Orli Znojmo/ČR), Juraj Štefanka (HC Vítkovice/ČR), Branko Radivojevič (HS Lulea/Švéd.).

what's "some" mean? :dunno: :dunno:

btw: hockey is played on the ice not on paper...

howerver according to the rosters do you believe that slovakia has 7th best team?

Goalies: Ján Lašák (Moeller Pardubice/ČR), Rastislav Staňa (SK Södertälje/Švéd.), Karol Križan (HKm Zvolen)
D-men: Martin Štrbák (CSKA Moskva/Rus.), Ľubomír Višňovský, René Vydarený (obaja Slovan Bratislava), Richard Lintner (Fribourg Gotteron/Švajč.), Zdeno Chára (BK Färjestad/Švéd.), Radoslav Suchý (Tatravagónka ŠKP Poprad), Ivan Majeský (Sparta Praha/ČR), Jaroslav Obšut (HS Lulea/Švéd.), Dominik Graňák (Slavia Praha/ČR), Richard Stehlík (Dukla Trenčín)
Forwards: Žigmund Pálffy, Jozef Stümpel (obaja Slavia Praha/ČR), Miroslav Šatan (Slovan Bratislava), Pavol Demitra, Marián Hossa, Marián Gáborík (všetci Dukla Trenčín), Michal Handzuš, Richard Zedník, Vladimír Országh (všetci HKm Zvolen), Marcel Hossa, Ladislav Nagy (obaja Mora IK/Švéd.), Ľuboš Bartečko (Dinamo Moskva/Rus.), Peter Pucher (Znojemští Orli Znojmo/ČR), Juraj Štefanka (HC Vítkovice/ČR), Branko Radivojevič (HS Lulea/Švéd.).

what's "some" mean? :dunno: :dunno:

btw: hockey is played on the ice not on paper...

howerver according to the rosters do you believe that slovakia has 7th best team?
Id rather be in the position of the underdogs. When he are the underdogs, we produce. But lately, as we have been called contenders, are play has started to be a bit worse.

My personal feeling.

1. Canada. Prediction hinges on ability to adjust to elite level after half the team didn't play this year. Also, many players played in the Swiss Country Club League. Goaltending should be enough to keep this team in the medals. Potential is there to score lots of goals, and the defence is rock-solid.

2. Czechs. Firepower abounds. Lots of offensive potential. Many of their best players are there, and guess what, they've been playing this year. Not as strong in the defensive zone as Canada.

3. Finns. Hockey's new elite nation should never be counted out. With Kiprusoff in net, any team that takes them lightly will be beat.

4. Russia. Lots of talent, lots of explosive firepower. Problem is, this team lacks the goaltending to keep up with the other three teams, and chemistry is often a foreign concept to the Russians.

5. Slovakia. Always do well at this tournament. Slovak players take great pride in playing for their country, so they often play better than many would think. Like Russia, lots of firepower, not much on the back end.

6. U.S.A. The transition to the new era begins for the Americans. It will be a bumpy few years for the U.S., but brighter days are ahead with strong drafts since in 2002.

7. Sweden. Still lots of veteran talent in Sweden, too bad most of those elite players aren't playing. Surprising, considering the Swedes have rarely had such a problem. That's bad news for the Swedes, who have to rely on more of their younger players, and those younger players aren't that good.

I don't think Canada will do well at this tournament. Over half of their players haven't played a meaningful game in over a year.

1.Czech Republic
2.Russia
3.Finland
4.Slovakia
5.Canada
6.Sweden
7.USA

1. Canada. Prediction hinges on ability to adjust to elite level after half the team didn't play this year. Also, many players played in the Swiss Country Club League. Goaltending should be enough to keep this team in the medals. Potential is there to score lots of goals, and the defence is rock-solid.


Name : God Bless Canada

Prediction : Canada 1st ... no, really? :eek:

:snide:

With Kiprusoff in net, any team that takes them lightly will be beat.



Kipper is not playing.

Hes been facing NHL shooters all season in the SEL league , and he just faced a tuff Russian team and did very well. I cant even comment on that game last year because who is to say his defense didnt do anything??

yes Lundqvist has improved ALOT since he played canada last year.

Ok let's predict then.

1. Canada (always the favourite, could end up 7th just as well with "well rested" stars.)

2. Russia (Loads of talent, depends how they come together)
3. Finland (great goalies. Best skating, worst shooting. Good system)
4. Czech (Lots of firepower, horrible goalies.)
5. USA (nice roster for once in world championships too)
6. Slovakia (they always have firepower up front, questionable goalie)
7. Sweden (Depends on Lundqvist, but the team ain't all that)

Goalies: Ján Lašák (Moeller Pardubice/ČR), Rastislav Staňa (SK Södertälje/Švéd.), Karol Križan (HKm Zvolen)
D-men: Martin Štrbák (CSKA Moskva/Rus.), Ľubomír Višňovský, René Vydarený (obaja Slovan Bratislava), Richard Lintner (Fribourg Gotteron/Švajč.), Zdeno Chára (BK Färjestad/Švéd.), Radoslav Suchý (Tatravagónka ŠKP Poprad), Ivan Majeský (Sparta Praha/ČR), Jaroslav Obšut (HS Lulea/Švéd.), Dominik Graňák (Slavia Praha/ČR), Richard Stehlík (Dukla Trenčín)
Forwards: Žigmund Pálffy, Jozef Stümpel (obaja Slavia Praha/ČR), Miroslav Šatan (Slovan Bratislava), Pavol Demitra, Marián Hossa, Marián Gáborík (všetci Dukla Trenčín), Michal Handzuš, Richard Zedník, Vladimír Országh (všetci HKm Zvolen), Marcel Hossa, Ladislav Nagy (obaja Mora IK/Švéd.), Ľuboš Bartečko (Dinamo Moskva/Rus.), Peter Pucher (Znojemští Orli Znojmo/ČR), Juraj Štefanka (HC Vítkovice/ČR), Branko Radivojevič (HS Lulea/Švéd.).

what's "some" mean? :dunno: :dunno:

btw: hockey is played on the ice not on paper...

howerver according to the rosters do you believe that slovakia has 7th best team?

The forwards are awesome, and Zdeno Chara is a kick butt player. However, the rest of the defence and the goalie don't excite me that much. But then again...who knows, right? Like I said, I wouldn't be surprised if Slovakia did well in this tournament.
:thumbu:

3. Finland (great goalies. Best skating, worst shooting. Good system)
How many people outside of Finland and Sweden have ever heard of Fredrik Norrena and Nicklas Bäckström?

I`m not saying that the finnish goalies are bad but the most well known (Kiprusoff, Lehtonen etc...) isnt on the team.

How many people outside of Finland and Sweden have ever heard of Fredrik Norrena and Nicklas Bäckström?

I`m not saying that the finnish goalies are bad but the most well known (Kiprusoff, Lehtonen etc...) isnt on the team.

I think this was more of a synopsis of the best available talent for each country.
;)

How many people outside of Finland and Sweden have ever heard of Fredrik Norrena and Nicklas Bäckström?

I`m not saying that the finnish goalies are bad but the most well known (Kiprusoff, Lehtonen etc...) isnt on the team.

It doesn´t matter if someone in North America haven´t heard about Bäckström and Norrena. They are great goalies, both of them could play in NHL.
Probably some teams underestimate their skills and it´s a good think for Finland.

1. Canada - Big name talent in Thornton, Nash, Heatley, Smyth, Morrow, Redden, Jovanoski, Doan, and Brodeur/Luongo/Turco as the goalies. Why are some of you predicting 7th overall? This team is loaded with gritty, physical players, tonnes of offense, a kick ass defense, and the world's best goaltending, and 7-5th place is going to be Canada's fate? Wow.

2. Slovakia - High powered offense, and a very nice looking team all around. I'm expecting huge things from this team simply due to the scary amount of offense these guys can produce. With Demitra on board with Hossa, Gaborik, and Chara backing him up, this is a scary looking team for anybody to face. Could potentially challenge Canada for the gold.

3. Russia - Very nice looking team, solid all around, but no goaltending. Could be a problem, but with that much offense, I predict a Top 3 finish.

4. USA - Nice team, but very few big name guys. It'll depend on the fact that Conklin stands on his head again, and if the role guys can step it up another notch. Not their best team, but they could surprise a lot of people.

5. Czech - Decent goalies with amazing offense. Questionable at this time where they'll place, and could challenge for a #3 or #4 spot. It depends on how the team can gel, because I look at the roster, and I'm impressed, and when I look down the sheet to the goalie I wonder how they'll do.

6. Sweden - Not a lot of big stars. With Sundin, Forsberg, Naslund, etc. they'd have a Top 3 finisher for sure, but it depends on if Zetterberg can step it up and help Alfreddson with the offense.

7. Finland - Questionable team with not a lot of NHL talent. Jokinen is great and all, but can he and Lundqvist make Finland a real competitor? Sweden and Finland are both interchangeable as to their respective positions. Decent team with lots of firepower, but a lackluster defense to say the least.

It doesn´t matter if someone in North America haven´t heard about Bäckström and Norrena. They are great goalies, both of them could play in NHL.
Probably some teams underestimate their skills and it´s a good think for Finland. That was basiclly my point, i was just surprised that someone would consider Finland goalies to the WC`s as "great".
IMO Norrena/Bäckström are not in the same class as Brodeur, Loungo or Voukon which (again IMO) are the "elite" goalies in this WC.
I dont consider Finlands goalies in this WC`s on paper to be any better or worse then USAs, Slovkias, Swedens or Russias.

All the pressure in this tourney goes to Canada, Czech Rep. and Russia, with USA and Slovakia in the middle and Sweden and Finland as the underdogs,
just as we like it. ;)

1. Canada - Big name talent in Thornton, Nash, Heatley, Smyth, Morrow, Redden, Jovanoski, Doan, and Brodeur/Luongo/Turco as the goalies. Why are some of you predicting 7th overall? This team is loaded with gritty, physical players, tonnes of offense, a kick ass defense, and the world's best goaltending, and 7-5th place is going to be Canada's fate? Wow.

2. Slovakia - High powered offense, and a very nice looking team all around. I'm expecting huge things from this team simply due to the scary amount of offense these guys can produce. With Demitra on board with Hossa, Gaborik, and Chara backing him up, this is a scary looking team for anybody to face. Could potentially challenge Canada for the gold.

3. Russia - Very nice looking team, solid all around, but no goaltending. Could be a problem, but with that much offense, I predict a Top 3 finish.

4. USA - Nice team, but very few big name guys. It'll depend on the fact that Conklin stands on his head again, and if the role guys can step it up another notch. Not their best team, but they could surprise a lot of people.

5. Czech - Horrible goalies with amazing offense. Questionable at this time where they'll place, and could challenge for a #3 or #4 spot. It depends on how the team can gel, because I look at the roster, and I'm impressed, and when I look down the sheet to the goalie I wonder how they'll do.

6. Sweden - Not a lot of big stars. With Sundin, Forsberg, Naslund, etc. they'd have a Top 3 finisher for sure, but it depends on if Zetterberg can step it up and help Alfreddson with the offense.

7. Finland - Questionable team with not a lot of NHL talent. Jokinen is great and all, but can he and Lundqvist make Finland a real competitor? Sweden and Finland are both interchangeable as to their respective positions. Decent team with lots of firepower, but a lackluster defense to say the least.

Lundqvist apparently is a good goalie. Unfortunately he plays for Sweden ;)

5. Czech - Horrible goalies
Just wondering, what´s wrong with Vokoun?

That was basiclly my point, i was just surprised that someone would consider Finland goalies to the WC`s as "great".
IMO Norrena/Bäckström are not in the same class as Brodeur, Loungo or Voukon which (again IMO) are the "elite" goalies in this WC.
I dont consider Finlands goalies in this WC`s on paper to be any better then USAs, Slovkias, Swedens or Russias.

All the pressure in this tourney goes to Canada, Czech Rep. and Russia, with USA and Slovakia in the middle and Sweden and Finland as the underdogs,
just as we like it. ;)

I agree with everything else, but Vokoun has really sucked ass this season so I'm not sure if he can be considered an elite goalie at this point.

Just wondering, what´s wrong with Vokoun?

He played with HIFK Helsinki this season and was one of the main reasons why they -against all predictions- didn't even make the semifinals of the Finnish league. I'm not sure what was the problem, perhaps motivation? He played well for the Czech Republic earlier though.

Just wondering, what´s wrong with Vokoun?

Sorry, I was a bit harsh on Vokoun. I should have put "not exactly elite" goalies on the Czech team. Vokoun is pretty good, but after him, there isn't much goaltending depth. I think that's the best way I can explain, but I was a bit harsh on Vokoun on his talent, so I'll edit my predictions. :)

Why are some of you predicting 7th overall?

67% of your goalies haven`t played competitive hockey in over a year.
Martin Brodeur, Roberto Luongo

57% of your defensemen haven`t played competitive hockey in over a year.
Scott Hannan, Ed Jovanovski, Wade Redden, Robyn Regehr

54% of your forwards haven`t played competitive hockey in over a year.
Shane Doan, Kris Draper, Simon Gagne, Kirk Maltby, Patrick Marleau, Brenden Morrow, Ryan Smyth

Thats over 60% of team Canada and thats why IMO.

(i could be wrong on a player or two, dunno if anyone played in lower NA-leagues)

67% of your goalies haven`t played competitive hockey in over a year.
Martin Brodeur, Roberto Luongo

57% of your defensemen haven`t played competitive hockey in over a year.
Scott Hannan, Ed Jovanovski, Wade Redden, Robyn Regehr

54% of your forwards haven`t played competitive hockey in over a year.
Shane Doan, Kris Draper, Simon Gagne, Kirk Maltby, Patrick Marleau, Brenden Morrow, Ryan Smyth

Thats over 60% of team Canada and thats why IMO.

(i could be wrong on a player or two, dunno if anyone played in lower NA-leagues)

It takes a few games to get prepared. That's why they do exhibition. It's not like these guys do nothing at home as well. They train non stop, and most are in game shape.

He played with HIFK Helsinki this season and was one of the main reasons why they -against all predictions- didn't even make the semifinals of the Finnish league. I'm not sure what was the problem, perhaps motivation? He played well for the Czech Republic earlier though. Hehe, it was the payback/jinx on for Olli Jokinen walking out on "my" team (Södertälje SK) in the middle of the season. We crashed from 7/8th pos. to 10/11th (12 teams total) but bounced back and made the playoff with a margin of 4 goals. Södertälje then knocked out second seeded Linköping (Norrena BTW) in the quarterfinals biggest succes for Södertälje SK in something like 15 years. "We" were knocked out in the semis though.

reading some of the predictions on this thread shows how badly informed some people are, including me. I mean most of us have absolutely no idea how the other teams are playing or who is playing for them, and still we make some silly predictions. Of course what I'm saying is based on some of the comments made about team Russia ... the only 2 teams I can predict right now are Russia and Sweden because I've seen their last 2 games, but I have really no idea how Finland or Canada are playing. And the same can be said about everyone here : did the Canadian fans see any of the European teams lately? Certainly not. Did we Europeans see the US or Canada? No.

:snide:

The forwards are awesome, and Zdeno Chara is a kick butt player. However, the rest of the defence and the goalie don't excite me that much. But then again...who knows, right? Like I said, I wouldn't be surprised if Slovakia did well in this tournament.
:thumbu:
lasak has a full colection (gold, silver and bronze) from WC. i'm pretty confident that he will be the best slovak player AGAIN. :teach:

reading some of the predictions on this thread shows how badly informed some people are, including me. I mean most of us have absolutely no idea how the other teams are playing or who is playing for them, and still we make some silly predictions. Of course what I'm saying is based on some of the comments made about team Russia ... the only 2 teams I can predict right now are Russia and Sweden because I've seen their last 2 games, but I have really no idea how Finland or Canada are playing. And the same can be said about everyone here : did the Canadian fans see any of the European teams lately? Certainly not. Did we Europeans see the US or Canada? No.

:snide:

you totally misused that smilie LOL

How many people outside of Finland and Sweden have ever heard of Fredrik Norrena and Nicklas Bäckström?

I`m not saying that the finnish goalies are bad but the most well known (Kiprusoff, Lehtonen etc...) isnt on the team.
Who cares. NHL goalies aside, Bäckas and Norre are both top 5-goalies in europe, and both better than Kipinä on the big ice.

The finnish names aren't big in the NHL, but for example, a lower line NHL player like Niko Kapanen is a better producer in the world champs than for example Sweden's Henrik Zetterberg.

The fact that everyone on Finland's team is a hard worker who bleeds his guts out for their country will matter alot, and I'd be surprised if there won't be a medal this year, and it's been along time since I was enthusiastic about Finland's chances.

That was basiclly my point, i was just surprised that someone would consider Finland goalies to the WC`s as "great".
IMO Norrena/Bäckström are not in the same class as Brodeur, Loungo or Voukon which (again IMO) are the "elite" goalies in this WC.


They are not even close when it comes to the name, but on the ice it's a different story. I had the "priviledge" to watch Vokoun several times in the playoffs, and now again in the Czech-Finland game...he is absolutely awfull right now. He is worse than Tommy Salo in his bad days right now. I wonder what has happened to him because he was such a stud against Detroit the other year. Bäckström in his current form is way way better than Vokoun. Bäckström also totally dominated Dwayne Roloson in the playoffs :cry:

He also made Tim Thomas his ***** in the finals, and Thomas was amazing during the year. I dunno in what shape Brodeur and Luongo are, but naturally they are the best goalies on paper. I'm just calling it like i'm seeing it....no real homerism here, I REALLY wanted Bäckström to suck in the semis, but he ate our "NHL star" Roloson alive.

I think it's hypocritical that people are ranking Sweden's goalie, Lundqvist as good while looking down at the Finnish trio.

Lundqvist hasn't played in the NHL and a handful fo good Swedish seasons under his belt is all he has. Norrena and Bäckström have many many seasons of great play in both Finland and Sweden.
Only reason Norrena isn't in the NHL is Khabibulin and the lockout.

And then our third goalie, none other than Pasi Nurminen. Great on the big ice, great season this year. Made Pelicans who were on the verg of bankrupcy and probably the worst team in a big european league look competitive and respectable.

Finland wont suffer from goaltending, it might not be Lehtonen/Kipper game/championship winning goaltending, but it will be better than most. That's just how deep we are in goaltending these days.

The achilles heel for us, imho, is a lack of someone who cna put the puck in the net. We've got many hardworkers and checkers and grinders, so we'll be competitive in any game, will we score is the question?

1. Gold- Sweden
2. Silver- Chechz Rep.
3. Bronze- Russia
4. Slovakia
5. Canada
6. Finland
7. USA

My bet is that Canada, Finland and USA won't make it past the quaterfinals. Sweden will win it all.

1. Gold- Sweden
2. Silver- Chechz Rep.
3. Bronze- Russia
4. Slovakia
5. Canada
6. Finland
7. USA

My bet is that Canada, Finland and USA won't make it past the quaterfinals. Sweden will win it all.
In Lundqvist you trust, eh? ;) because from the looks of the world champs only Lunkan and Norström seem to be real threats on the team.

My predictions:

Gold Russia - I really think they are due.

Silver Czech Republic- Great team as always but I'm still not sure about Vokoun.

Bronze Canada- Still a good team but half of the players have not played this season.

4th Finland- Darkhorse team as always that might surprise.


There is one prediction that I will make right now. There is no way Sweden will win a medal in this tournmament. They simply do not have the talent.
If I am wrong I will personally come back to this board and aplogize to all Swedish hockey fans. :teach:

My predictions:

Gold Russia - I really think they are due.

Silver Czech Republic- Great team as always but I'm still not sure about Vokoun.

Bronze Canada- Still a good team but half of the players have not played this season.

4th Finland- Darkhorse team as always that might surprise.


There is one prediction that I will make right now. There is no way Sweden will win a medal in this tournmament. They simply do not have the talent.
If I am wrong I will personally come back to this board and aplogize to all Swedish hockey fans. :teach:

There is no way they don't get a medal if Lundqvist plays to 90% of his capability...

i cant see why people are making the fact that Canadians didnt play for this season aa big deal its not like they dont practice hard all year around and they wil be ready, they played well in there exhintion games and with this much talent on the team not medalling will be seen as a huge dissapointment hell not getting gold will be seen as a huge disappointment.

i cant see why people are really making the fact that Canadians didnt play for this season its not like they dont train hard all year around and they wil be ready, they played well in there exhintion games and with this much talent on the team not medalling will be seen as a huge dissapointment hell not getting gold will be seen as a huge disappointment.
Training without match training is a completly different thing... but tha being said, even if the canadians are at 70-80%, they should be the by far favourites for them.

Russians have done so well in the pre-games because their opposition haven't tried to get them into the corners at all.

yeah i heard that aswell about the russians that they havent been tested because other teams are allowin them to move freely. However they still haveagreat offense on that team and should do well.

yeah i heard that aswell about the russians that they havent been tested because other teams are allowin them to move freely. However they still haveagreat offense on that team and should do well.
Yeah, they have an offensive arsenal to be feared... and I suspect guys like Malkin, Afinogenov etc. to go into the corners if called upon.
But IMO it seems they have too many god-complex players to be the big favourite... not a big surprise if they win a couple of real blowouts, but it wouldn't surprise me either if they get blowed out by a blue collar team.

Russians have done so well in the pre-games because their opposition haven't tried to get them into the corners at all.

So well??? :eek: Oh my god, Russia's defense sucks big time! :shakehead

Rusty or not, selecting Canada to finish any worse than 3rd is ridiculous.

Rusty or not, selecting Canada to finish any worse than 3rd is ridiculous.
I'd further it with saying that selecting them to finish any worse than 2nd is a complete joke.

I'd further it with saying that selecting them to finish any worse than 2nd is a complete joke.

Now i am not going to go that far for Canada to reach the gold medal game they wil have to play good and i am sure they will, however when u see some placing them 5-7 in the tounrey and saing they wont get even into the bronze medal game now thats a complete joke.

Training without match training is a completly different thing... but tha being said, even if the canadians are at 70-80%, they should be the by far favourites for them.

I don't agree! The winning team has to be 100% ready! We saw that in the last two years! Two years ago when Canada was 100% ready it took them I don't know how many overtimes to win it! Last year they were ready and were still very lucky to win it (semifinals against Slovakia :madfire: )! Details decide the game! This year they are not as ready as they were before and that's why I don't think they can compete with other top countries! In normal circumstances this Canadian team (on paper) would be really strong and I would consider them as the favourites.

I don't agree! The winning team has to be 100% ready! We saw that in the last two years! Two years ago when Canada was 100% ready it took them I don't know how many overtimes to win it! Last year they were ready and were still very lucky to win it (semifinals against Slovakia :madfire: )! Details decide the game! This year they are not as ready as they were before and that's why I don't think they can compete with other top countries! In normal circumstances this Canadian team (on paper) would be really strong and I would consider them as the favourites.

I tend to agree with you. I think Canada can win this thing but I think it's more likely they will lose. They are just not going to be in as good of shape as the Czechs, Russians and Slovaks and when it comes down to a tight, intense game, Canada probably won't have the fitness to come through. Canada will have to get great goaltending to pull it off, which is entirely possible with Brodeur and Luongo, or superhuman efforts from the guys who have played, like Heatley, Nash, Thornton and Morrison. The Russians and Czechs as the favourites IMO.

This is what I think about this tournament:

Russia has the best forwards by far.
Sweden has the best goalkeeper by far. Thats right, better than Brodeur.
Canada probably has the best Defensemen though, I guess.

This is what I think about this tournament:

Russia has the best forwards by far.
Sweden has the best goalkeeper by far. Thats right, better than Brodeur.
Canada probably has the best Defensemen though, I guess.
that is so ridiculous...

that is so ridiculous...

No its not. You will change your mind when you see that Sweden has 0 goals against in the round robin.

No its not. You will change your mind when you see that Sweden has 0 goals against in the round robin.

I agree with Mattihp.. Not many are better than Martin Brodeur, if any! Definitely not Whoqwist.

:rant:

that is so ridiculous...

I second that :biglaugh:

I agree with Mattihp.. Not many are better than Martin Brodeur, if any! Definitely not Whoqwist.

:rant:

I'm just saying that at the moment, I think "Whoqvist" is better than Brodeur. Has Brodeur even played hockey this season? I'm not saying that next year in NHL Lundqvist will be better than Brodeur wich isn't impossible. But right now this Tournament Lundqvist is better. You might not belive me who don't know who he is but you'll see. And if not, then I was wrong.

This is what I think about this tournament:

Russia has the best forwards by far.
Sweden has the best goalkeeper by far. Thats right, better than Brodeur.
Canada probably has the best Defensemen though, I guess. No its not. You will change your mind when you see that Sweden has 0 goals against in the round robin. Don`t post **** like that, Sweden are the underdogs in this tournament and that`s how we like it.

Don`t post **** like that,

Agreed. As Matti already pointed out, it is quite ridiculous.

Agreed. As Matti already pointed out, it is quite ridiculous.

Its not rediculous...it might be uncorrect, its just what I think. Its anything but ridiculous.

Its not rediculous...it might be uncorrect, its just what I think. Its anything but ridiculous.

Your thought, in this instance, is ridiculous.

I agree with Mattihp.. Not many are better than Martin Brodeur, if any! Definitely not Whoqwist.

:rant:

brodeur, yes he has done great job behind New jersey devils turtle defense.
i think everyone can do great behind that turtle defense.

Don`t post **** like that, Sweden are the underdogs in this tournament and that`s how we like it.

Sweden is this year's favorite, and by far!!! :D :bow:

Sweden is this year's favorite, and by far!!! :D :bow:
I'd have to agree :sarcasm:

Sweden is this year's favorite, and by far!!! :D :bow: I can`t hear you ...

Lundqvist hasn't played in the NHL and a handful fo good Swedish seasons under his belt is all he has. Norrena and Bäckström have many many seasons of great play in both Finland and Sweden.

Lundqvist won the silver medal last year in this tourney and was selected to the all-star team...he's very very good, i'm just concerned about the help he gets from his team. I don't know how good their D will be but sweden scares me sometimes, with how they hung him out to dry last year against canada

and in this tourney, it doesn't matter at all if he's played in the NHL or not...this is european ice and european "rules". not to mention that he has faced NHL talent in the SEL last year as well as various tourneys and has always acquitted himself quite well.

Sweden has the best goalkeeper by far. Thats right, better than Brodeur.

that's going a bit far though ;) he may play better than broduer in this tourney, who knows, but I don't think he's a better goalie than broduer (yet :) ) hehe

I can`t hear you ...

You Swedes are incredible! You're just saying how all other teams are great and how much Sweden sucks just to leave the pressure of your team, be considered as underdogs and than come from behind and win it all! Well, I'm not gonna fall on that one...

Sweden is a team to beat, the lone favourites for this tournament, don't be fooled by the unknown names, loosing to Russia in the Euro tour was just part of the plan, Lundqvist >>>>>Brodeur

I think I changed my mind :) :

1. Sweden :razz:
.
.
.
.
.

2. Czech R.
3. Russia

You Swedes are incredible! You're just saying how all other teams are great and how much Sweden sucks just to leave the pressure of your team, be considered as underdogs and than come from behind and win it all! Well, I'm not gonna fall on that one...

Dammit, you have discovered our secret plan...

Short & sweet Canada is my pick to take this tourney yet again.
The Russians look good on paper but like the Russians of the 70s/80s found ways to win the Russian teams of late can only find ways to lose. I see this trend continuing. Finland is my dark horse choice and I'd love to see a Canada/Finland final (if possible).

The Russians look good on paper but like the Russians of the 70s/80s found ways to win the Russian teams of late can only find ways to lose. I see this trend continuing.

Why? The russians have a decent coach for once..

I love how no one wants to give the Canadian forwards a chance, talking about how the Russians/Czechs/Slovaks have so much more talent up front. There are only a handful of players in the NHL more talented than a lot of the Canadian forwards, and most of them aren't playing in this tournament. Dany Heatley playing at 70% is probably a top line forward on any other team, same with Doan, Thornton, Nash, Gagne, Marleau etc. But they're being ranked by you guys as probably being worse than a bunch of no-names from Europe. Sorry, I'll take franchise NHLers who haven't played in a season over a bunch of guys who will never make the NHL in their lives.

I'm not saying the Canadians will win gold or even medal, but going into the tournament, they are without a doubt favorites.

Why? The russians have a decent coach for once..
I wish I had a better answer Riddarn but it's a combo of my gut and having seen how team Russia has done lately. IMO it is very similar to what the NY Ranger$ and Real Madrid have been going through... just a major lack of team chemistry. Who knows for sure... Ovechkin should do better this tourney since it looks like Sid the kid will miss it ;)

but like the Russians of the 70s/80s found ways to win the Russian teams of late can only find ways to lose.

That made me chuckle :snide:

Dany Heatley playing at 70% is probably a top line forward on any other team.

And Ilya Kovalchuk playing at 100% is certainly a 3rd line winger on team Russia. :D

Canada beat Latvia 3-1

http://www.hockeycanada.ca/e/teams/mens/worlds/2005/news/mwc001.html

I love how no one wants to give the Canadian forwards a chance, talking about how the Russians/Czechs/Slovaks have so much more talent up front. There are only a handful of players in the NHL more talented than a lot of the Canadian forwards, and most of them aren't playing in this tournament. Dany Heatley playing at 70% is probably a top line forward on any other team, same with Doan, Thornton, Nash, Gagne, Marleau etc. But they're being ranked by you guys as probably being worse than a bunch of no-names from Europe. Sorry, I'll take franchise NHLers who haven't played in a season over a bunch of guys who will never make the NHL in their lives.

first, i think canada only has the real advantage in terms of guys like Thornton, Heatley, and Nash. the other guys like Doan, Gagne, etc, can have their equivalents found on other teams. Not that they're bad players, but they're not quite a "step above" like the other three I mentioned. They provide Canada with good depth in this tournament but they're not special talents that other teams can't have.

and second, this isn't a NA style, NHL tournament. being a NHL player in this tournament doesn't exactly mean you're better for it than a player who's played his career in europe. They're used to the ice and the rules and the styles of play that are successful in this setting. they're no slouches or "no talents" just because they're not in the NHL when it comes to a tourney like this.

that all being said, Canada does have very good talent and depth obviously and certainly should be considered a favorite as long as they aren't terribly rusty...but I could easily see them being knocked off if they don't play 100%. Heatley at 70% isn't going to win them this tourney if the rest of the team follows suite

that's going a bit far though ;) he may play better than broduer in this tourney, who knows, but I don't think he's a better goalie than broduer (yet :) ) hehe

Ehm..thats exactly what I said in my other post. In this tournament(wich we are talking about in this topic right?) I think Lundqvist is the best goalkeeper.

People who are saying that I'm rediculous should read what I write instead of looking back at what Brodeur has done in his career.

Can someone please answer me what Brodeur has done this year? nothing? oh ok...

Can someone please answer me what Brodeur has done this year? nothing? oh ok...

Yes but brodeur has in the past won a tourney like this called the olympics, and all teams had their top talent there. Too put Lundqvist ahead of goalies like broduer and loungo just doesnt fit. You cant say oh lok at what theses goalies have done this eyar, they ddint get a chance to play. So when comparing them we should look instead to the latest stats and comparisons, which would be the nhl from last year, in whihc bordeur and loungo were starters and top elite goaltenders in the league. Lundqvist hasnt proven that he is better just becuase he had a good year in the SEL. And if u say Lundqvist was named 2nd team allstar last WC why cant we then talk about Loungo's play last year, or any other Canadian that played last year. Too just discredit all these NHL superstars have done in there careers becasue there was no NHL is ridioulous. These players still have the talent and have been proven to be far superior to Lundqvist in the past.

Yes but brodeur has in the past won a tourney like this called the olympics, and all teams had their top talent there. Too put Lundqvist ahead of goalies like broduer and loungo just doesnt fit. You cant say oh lok at what theses goalies have done this eyar, they ddint get a chance to play. So when comparing them we should look instead to the latest stats and comparisons, which would be the nhl from last year, in whihc bordeur and loungo were starters and top elite goaltenders in the league. Lundqvist hasnt proven that he is better just becuase he had a good year in the SEL. And if u say Lundqvist was named 2nd team allstar last WC why cant we then talk about Loungo's play last year, or any other Canadian that played last year. Too just discredit all these NHL superstars have done in there careers becasue there was no NHL is ridioulous. These players still have the talent and have been proven to be far superior to Lundqvist in the past.

I said STOP IT!

it wasn't I who brought up that Lundqvist was in the last years allstarteam, I didn't even know about that.
I am NOT saying that Lundqvist has or will ever achive as much as Brodeur. The only thing I am saying is that I belive he is better than Brodeur right now at this moment. He is in his best shape. But nobody even knows if Brodeur is in good shape...I surtenly don't think he is.

I know one thing,he damn well better get in shape,the games start in about a week. Suck it up Marty!!

first, i think canada only has the real advantage in terms of guys like Thornton, Heatley, and Nash. the other guys like Doan, Gagne, etc, can have their equivalents found on other teams. Not that they're bad players, but they're not quite a "step above" like the other three I mentioned. They provide Canada with good depth in this tournament but they're not special talents that other teams can't have.

and second, this isn't a NA style, NHL tournament. being a NHL player in this tournament doesn't exactly mean you're better for it than a player who's played his career in europe. They're used to the ice and the rules and the styles of play that are successful in this setting. they're no slouches or "no talents" just because they're not in the NHL when it comes to a tourney like this.

that all being said, Canada does have very good talent and depth obviously and certainly should be considered a favorite as long as they aren't terribly rusty...but I could easily see them being knocked off if they don't play 100%. Heatley at 70% isn't going to win them this tourney if the rest of the team follows suite

Gimme a break. The DDT line was one of the most dominant lines in the WC, and that included Doan and Draper. Canada has what, 10 forwards who were 20 goal scorers at least in the last year? These guys are franchise players, people put so much into the 'bigger ice surface.' If the bigger ice surface is so much of a difference maker how come Canada dominated it in 2002, followed up by the Americans, both of whom were not brought up on the 'big ice.' Canada has shut down Peter Forsberg on the 'big ice' with guys like Maltby Doan and Draper. Big ice isnt that big of a factor. The biggest factors are talent, systems, team chemistry, luck.

Its so typical that people dont want to give guys like Doan and Marleau credit just because they're not flashy like Kovalchuck. Maybe they don't score as many goals, but goal scoring is not the only factor that makes a good hockey player. These guys are great all around, and I dont want to throw a word like 'two-way' around because that makes it seem as if they're only mildly offensively talented. Marleau scored a hat trick against Kipper in the playoffs last year.

And if you look at a 'grinder' like Fischer, he had pretty big numbers in Europe last year. So take our 'grinder,' put him in Europe 'on the big ice' and he becomes a dominant player. Want to know why? The European leagues simply do not have the same top level talent the NHL has.

Think about this: Everyone here is so excited about Ovechkin playing in this tournament. Well he sure did great in the WJC...oh wait, as soon as he played a formidable team, he got completely shut down! He got shut down by guys that are about 100th on Canada's best-on-best depth chart, wait till he plays guys that are 10-20 on the best on best depth chart, not just for Canada, for any team. He didnt do much in the WC, I don't know why anyone would think hes going to be amazing in this tournament.

Granted everything I say could be completely wrong. Canada could easily not medal, its anyone's tournament. But to say we're that much less skilled than any other team is to not look at the facts.

Ehm..thats exactly what I said in my other post. In this tournament(wich we are talking about in this topic right?) I think Lundqvist is the best goalkeeper.

People who are saying that I'm rediculous should read what I write instead of looking back at what Brodeur has done in his career.

Can someone please answer me what Brodeur has done this year? nothing? oh ok...

He's gone 5-0-0 at the World Stars games and he just beat Latvia in his first full game, and may I say, he looked pretty sharp at camp. The last drill they had they pitted Luongo and Turco against Broduer in a shootout situation. Each side got a certain number of pucks, and whichever side got rid of all their pucks first by scoring won. Broduer's side still had like 6 pucks out of 12 or so left by the time the drill ended.

Gold Czech Republic (Jagr will be the tournament MVP)

Silver Canada (will be stunned by the Czech offense)

Bronze Russia (Their lack of anything but offense will stop them from reaching the finals)

4th Sweden (Lundqvist will CARRY them to a 4th place finish)

He's gone 5-0-0 at the World Stars games and he just beat Latvia in his first full game, and may I say, he looked pretty sharp at camp. The last drill they had they pitted Luongo and Turco against Broduer in a shootout situation. Each side got a certain number of pucks, and whichever side got rid of all their pucks first by scoring won. Broduer's side still had like 6 pucks out of 12 or so left by the time the drill ended.

5-0-0 what? He lost vs the swedish teams in the allstar games.
he beat Latvia? OH WOW!! LATVIA REALLY?
he is better than Luongo...tell me something new...

That ******** ain't close to be more impressive than what Lundqvist have been doin this season...

Lundqvists SVS% avarage in the SEL playoffs was 96,16
Pretty much humuliating goalies like Gerber, Theodore, Norrena, Kipprusoff, Stana, Fernandez, Salo...

5-0-0 what? He lost vs the swedish teams in the allstar games.
he beat Latvia? OH WOW!! LATVIA REALLY?
he is better than Luongo...tell me something new...

That ******** ain't close to be more impressive than what Lundqvist have been doin this season...

Lundqvists SVS% avarage in the SEL playoffs was 96,16
Pretty much humuliating goalies like Gerber, Theodore, Norrena, Kipprusoff, Stana, Fernandez, Salo...



Bro...c'on relax...im as big of a Lundqvist fan like you are but saying he will be better then Brodeur in the Tournament is a stretch, sure it could happen (it really could people) but lets not get ahead of ourselfs.....all your doing is over hyping Lundqvist which will hurt him in the future...hes a great goalie..but lets not use the words Brodeur and Lundqvist in the same sentence just yet.

PS - Yea he did kick ass against NHL goalies like Gerber, Theodore, Kipper etc in the playoffs. :handclap:

Why? The russians have a decent coach for once..

I think Russia's biggest problem is their inexperienced team. Most of the roster is quite young.

And god help us all if they run out of training pants :D

Who will Russia's starting goaltender be?

Who will Russia's starting goaltender be?
Probably Sokolov, he's been solid as always.

Probably Sokolov, he's been solid as always.

Whaaaaaat? :eek:

Whaaaaaat? :eek:
question of definition ;) he hasn't done many super-huge blunders.

Bro...c'on relax...im as big of a Lundqvist fan like you are but saying he will be better then Brodeur in the Tournament is a stretch, sure it could happen (it really could people) but lets not get ahead of ourselfs.....all your doing is over hyping Lundqvist which will hurt him in the future...hes a great goalie..but lets not use the words Brodeur and Lundqvist in the same sentence just yet.

PS - Yea he did kick ass against NHL goalies like Gerber, Theodore, Kipper etc in the playoffs. :handclap:

Yeah I know...I just had to tell them because they called me rediculous. I'm not saying that Brodeur has no chance against Lundqvist. I just belive that Lundqvist will play better than Brodeur this tournament. I might be wrong, I might be right. Who knows...

after the year he's had, culminating in winning the SEL championship, he also might be in for a letdown :dunno:

let's not get too crazy...his team doesn't seem terribly strong compared to others in the tourney so I'm hoping he's not hung out to dry

To be honest, I think Canada's forwards are better than Russia's. They have speed, grit, and physicality, physicality is what the Russian's are sorely missing. Take a look at the two forward rosters:

Alexander Ovechkin-Pavel Datsyuk-Alexei Kovalev
Ilya Kovalchuk-Evengi Malkin-Maxim Afinogenov
Alexander Semin-Alexei Yashin-Viktor Kozlov
Alexander Haritonov-Sergei Zinovjev-Fedor Fedorov

Ivan Neprjaev
Vladimir Antipov

or Canada's roster

Rick Nash-Joe Thornton-Shane Doan
Ryan Smyth-Brendan Morisson-Dany Heatley
Brendan Morrow-Patrick Marleau-Simon Gagne
Kirk Maltby-Kris Draper-Mike Fisher

Scott Walker


Give me Canada's forward roster 10 times out of 10. :handclap:

Canada have won two straight years because their D is able to break up plays "higher" up the ice then any other D. Thats what gives them a chance to win every game they play.

Honestly from my point of view for example the Swedish offensive game have been allot better then Canadas, especially in 03´but also in 04´. Even when Canada had guys like Heatly. The reason for this is that there is no time for Canadian players to learn how to adopt to the bigger ice surface in the international game and learn how to take fully advantage of it. But there D have more then made up for that in the past.

Personally I don't think they will be able to be 100% this year, some of the players not playing competetive at all this year beeing the biggest reason. However when the gold medal round starts all it takes is three games, one can't forget that there is a lot of luck involved. So Canada defenitly have a chance. So does Chechz Rep., Russia, Finland and Slovakia.

If I where to rank the team, seriously right now Russia is the fav.
(most likly to win it all, in order)
1. Russia
2. Chechz Rep.
3. Canada
4. Finland
5. Slovakia
6. Sweden
I also belive that all 6 have a shot at winning. USA don't! Someone talked about how Russia only have impressed because they haven't been asked to dance in the corners. I belive the Russians have physically atleast as strong roster as any other team. They have for the first time the last decade a really chippy team. The biggest question IMO is if the stars of the team are willing to take a smaller role in the long run and if they can keeping playing like they did against Sweden if they get behind in a game, or turn into the usual Kovalchuk solo fest....

Also Russia's chances would increase if Kovalchuk plays like in the NHL. Cause at the last WC's he wasnt anything special.

Its funny how all the swedes except me think so bad of the Swedish roster...

Just because players like Forsberg, Lidstrom, Sundin and Nazzy isn't playing...they are not so important really. Sweden has good forwards who can win the worlds. The only problem is the defense wich is not so bad either because of Lundqvist.

Stop reading swedish newspapers and get your own opinion ffs.

I whould rank Sweden ahead of Slovakia, USA and Finland atleast.

Canada have won two straight years because their D is able to break up plays "higher" up the ice then any other D. Thats what gives them a chance to win every game they play.

Honestly from my point of view for example the Swedish offensive game have been allot better then Canadas, especially in 03´but also in 04´. Even when Canada had guys like Heatly. The reason for this is that there is no time for Canadian players to learn how to adopt to the bigger ice surface in the international game and learn how to take fully advantage of it. But there D have more then made up for that in the past.

Personally I don't think they will be able to be 100% this year, some of the players not playing competetive at all this year beeing the biggest reason. However when the gold medal round starts all it takes is three games, one can't forget that there is a lot of luck involved. So Canada defenitly have a chance. So does Chechz Rep., Russia, Finland and Slovakia.

If I where to rank the team, seriously right now Russia is the fav.
(most likly to win it all, in order)
1. Russia
2. Chechz Rep.
3. Canada
4. Finland
5. Slovakia
6. Sweden
I also belive that all 6 have a shot at winning. USA don't! Someone talked about how Russia only have impressed because they haven't been asked to dance in the corners. I belive the Russians have physically atleast as strong roster as any other team. They have for the first time the last decade a really chippy team. The biggest question IMO is if the stars of the team are willing to take a smaller role in the long run and if they can keeping playing like they did against Sweden if they get behind in a game, or turn into the usual Kovalchuk solo fest....


Explain to me why the United States doesn't have a shot.

Canada beat Latvia 3-1

http://www.hockeycanada.ca/e/teams/mens/worlds/2005/news/mwc001.html
I heard they played like s&%t in doing it however,jet lag tagged as the official culprit.

Why? The russians have a decent coach for once..
Is that Salming in your avatar? Must be his hippy days i guess.....all he's missing is a spliff,some love beads and a peace sign hanging from a chain on his neck.

Is that Salming in your avatar? Must be his hippy days i guess.....all he's missing is a spliff,some love beads and a peace sign hanging from a chain on his neck.

Yes, it's Salming.

interesting.

It won't be easy but i think Canada just has too much talent not to win. Yes, some of their players haven't played as much as others this season but that could end up being a positive as they are well rested and injury free. Its not like they're being completely thrown into the fire, they will have had a month to prepare and some exhibition games as well. Surely the players that were named to the team had expected the call and had kept themselves in near top condition and have used the time since to work on the timing. I would be surprised with anything less then gold.

Explain to me why the United States doesn't have a shot.

"Not a shot" are maybe a bad use of words, but I could never imagine them winning it all. Without a doubt they aren't 100% motivated, allot of european players equall winning the ECH to winning a cup. For americans sadly if they win it all theyd be happy if there was a little notice in a newspaper. In Sweden/Finland/Chechz Rep. 75%(well maybe not 75% but allot of people) of the population would hit the streets celebrating...

If USA don't win the group they have to beat three of the top 6 teams in three straight games. I just can't see it happening.

I don't think the USA's apparent lack of fan support from the state will have a real impact on how far they go in this tourney...

honestly i'd say their downfall will be goaltending because conklin just isn't that good and if they then just throw dipietro in there it's not gonna work...they should just make dipietro the starter now and hope he gets hot

Don't underestimate the US, last year they took bronze. this is a better team.

I don't think the USA's apparent lack of fan support from the state will have a real impact on how far they go in this tourney...

honestly i'd say their downfall will be goaltending because conklin just isn't that good and if they then just throw dipietro in there it's not gonna work...they should just make dipietro the starter now and hope he gets hot



Conklin's performance last year at the World Championships invalidates everything you say in this post. He was named the tournament's top goaltender and stood on his head last year. I don't know if he'll be as good this time around, but he is capable.

It's nice to see here Russia as one of the contenders but without hot goalie we could easily fail even in the quarterfinals. So if Sokolov will regain his best conditions and Bryzgalov will be added to the team later I am as a biased Russian poster ;) could expect some success at last. Especially after two previous WCh. :shakehead

"Not a shot" are maybe a bad use of words, but I could never imagine them winning it all. Without a doubt they aren't 100% motivated, allot of european players equall winning the ECH to winning a cup. For americans sadly if they win it all theyd be happy if there was a little notice in a newspaper. In Sweden/Finland/Chechz Rep. 75%(well maybe not 75% but allot of people) of the population would hit the streets celebrating...

If USA don't win the group they have to beat three of the top 6 teams in three straight games. I just can't see it happening.
It's impossible for us to know whether or not they are motivated,they may be the most motivated team there.We won't have any idea how motivated they are or anyone else is until the games get going.

Traditionally team USA has had the worst attitude of all teams and that has showed, dunno about this year as they haven't had other hockey around, it might boost their motivation.

their attitude looked allright to me last year,they went over there with what was on paper a team that people said could'nt compete against the rest of the big boys and they went home with bronze.What are we basing this bad attitude and non-motivation talk on?

their attitude looked allright to me last year,they went over there with what was on paper a team that people said could'nt compete against the rest of the big boys and they went home with bronze.What are we basing this bad attitude and non-motivation talk on?

I wasn't talking about any specific year, sure there are exceptions but in the past americans have been total tourists.

I wasn't talking about any specific year, sure there are exceptions but in the past americans have been total tourists.
I just think their results at previous world's have had more to do with many of the top players not having an interest in playing in the tourney more then any lack of motivation with the guys who did choose to play.In that sense(stars not commiting),i suppose one could say their attitude concerning this competition has'nt been great but i think the players that do sign up for them try their best all the time.Canada has also had a difficult time over the years to get our best players to come over,even this year it has been a problem.Traidtionally we get a better response from our stars but not by a whole lot....our depth of talent allows us to overcome that problem whereas up to this point their's has'nt for the most part.When our top end stars don't play we still have "2nd end stars" who do play and can win us gold anyway...they have'nt had that luxury over the years.

I wasn't talking about any specific year, sure there are exceptions but in the past americans have been total tourists.


When Dieter Kochan is your starting goaltender you're just about as good as a tourist............

I just think their results at previous world's have had more to do with many of the top players not having an interest in playing in the tourney more then any lack of motivation with the guys who did choose to play.

I think that speaks volumes about their motivation & attitude. Canadians have always been more ready to represent their country in WC, in Europe (Russia excluded) it's expected that all players want to play for the national team if healthy.

The ones who bother to play have taken it as an all-paid vacation in Europe with their families and it has showed.

When Dieter Kochan is your starting goaltender you're just about as good as a tourist............

I thought he was a canuck?

I thought he was a canuck?
Yank born in Canada, has played for US at least in two world champs IIRC

I think that speaks volumes about their motivation & attitude. Canadians have always been more ready to represent their country in WC, in Europe (Russia excluded) it's expected that all players want to play for the national team if healthy.

The ones who bother to play have taken it as an all-paid vacation in Europe with their families and it has showed.
They(Canada) have but when we have'nt we've had the depth to bail us out and keep our results good.They don't have that luxury,it's getting better though.....look at last year. I agree,historically in this tournament their top stars have'nt been keen on representing their country(in other tournaments it's a different story however) but......i've got some beefs with several of our guys over the years too.They did'nt drop everything to play either and it was'nt any injury that kept them out at all.

Conklin's performance last year at the World Championships invalidates everything you say in this post. He was named the tournament's top goaltender and stood on his head last year. I don't know if he'll be as good this time around, but he is capable.

I'm sorry but one good performance last year doesn't sell me on Conklin as a good enough goalie to make me feel confident, and it irks me that someone like esche wasn't even called about playing

maybe conklin will do well but i'm not filled with confidence when I look at him in net for the US

1. Canada
2. Czech Republic
3. Russia
4. USA
5. Slovakia
6. Sweden

This I think is more just the rankings going into the tournament, this doesnt neccessarily represent how I think things will end up.

Slovakia's team can be scary if they get goaltending from Lasak (when he's on, he's pretty good)... most of their top forwards are playing in this tournament so look for them to possibly open a few eyes

Slovakia's team can be scary if they get goaltending from Lasak (when he's on, he's pretty good)... most of their top forwards are playing in this tournament so look for them to possibly open a few eyes
When Lasak is on, he's the best goaltender in the world on the big ice.

If I'd make an all-star lineup of active players on international ice it'd be something like...

Satan - Sundin - Pálffy
Norström - Nummelin

Lasak

Looking at Slovakia's roster, it looks pretty damn good.
Sweden might overachieve by bringing players who are usually left off the team and therefore have something to prove and also because of Lundqvist.
Canada has looked better on paper and on the ice.
Russia finally seems to have a good core of determined players.
I don't know what to think about the Czechs and US.
But here's my prediction:

GOLD: Slovakia -- yeah that's right!
SILVER: Sweden
BRONZE: Canada
4th: Russia
5th: Czechs
6th: US
7th: Finland

It's going to be a very close tournament!

Looking at Slovakia's roster, it looks pretty damn good.
Sweden might overachieve by bringing players who are usually left off the team and therefore have something to prove and also because of Lundqvist.
Canada has looked better on paper and on the ice.
Russia finally seems to have a good core of determined players.
I don't know what to think about the Czechs and US.
But here's my prediction:

GOLD: Slovakia -- yeah that's right!
SILVER: Sweden
BRONZE: Canada
4th: Russia
5th: Czechs
6th: US
7th: Finland

It's going to be a very close tournament!

If Lundqvist carry the swedes, they might play the final, and I think they're a sure thing for a medal. But Slovakia has looked awful lately... Not much team chemistry it seems.

Final predictions:

Gold Czech Republic - best team in the tournament.

Silver Russia - great scoring but not sure about the goaltending

Bronze Canada - good on paper but might be rusty from lack of play this season.

4th Finland - always put in a solid effort

5th US

6th Sweden

7th Slovakia

8th Germany

This is how Peter Forsberg is ranking the top 8:

1. Sweden
2. Canada
3. Slovakia
4. Russia
5. Czechs
6. Finland
7. USA
8. Slovenia

Source: Peter Forsberg (http://svt.se/content/1/c6/37/97/20/05-0427-foppasynk-202636.ram)

This is how Peter Forsberg is ranking the top 8:

1. Sweden
2. Canada
3. Slovakia
4. Russia
5. Czechs
6. Finland
7. USA
8. Slovenia

Source: Peter Forsberg (http://svt.se/content/1/c6/37/97/20/05-0427-foppasynk-202636.ram)

So much for not putting high expectations on your team huh?

;)

#1 Team Russia
#2 Team Canada
#3 Team Czech
#4 Team Sweden
#5 Team Finland
#6 Team SLovakia/USA

1) Canada
2) Czech Republic
3) Slovakia
4) Sweden
5) Russia
6) Finland
7) USA
8) Latvia

This is how Peter Forsberg is ranking the top 8:

1. Sweden
2. Canada
3. Slovakia
4. Russia
5. Czechs
6. Finland
7. USA
8. Slovenia

Source: Peter Forsberg (http://svt.se/content/1/c6/37/97/20/05-0427-foppasynk-202636.ram)

Forsberg thinks that Slovenia will get into the medal round? That's unbelievable.

I think this year we'll see a new champion. I get this feeling that this year's tournament will be like Euro 2004, where the big teams and big stars mostly struggled, and the more defensive minded team won in the end. This is based on nothing other than a hunch, but somebody will one day dethrone Canada. Perhaps that means that Sweden, with its general lack of stars, but strong defensive play will come out on top.

Forsberg thinks that Slovenia will get into the medal round? That's unbelievable.

I think this year we'll see a new champion. I get this feeling that this year's tournament will be like Euro 2004, where the big teams and big stars mostly struggled, and the more defensive minded team won in the end. This is based on nothing other than a hunch, but somebody will one day dethrone Canada. Perhaps that means that Sweden, with its general lack of stars, but strong defensive play will come out on top.

That could equally well be Finland ;)

This is how Peter Forsberg is ranking the top 8:

1. Sweden
2. Canada
3. Slovakia
4. Russia
5. Czechs
6. Finland
7. USA
8. Slovenia

Source: Peter Forsberg (http://svt.se/content/1/c6/37/97/20/05-0427-foppasynk-202636.ram)


1) Canada
2) Czech Republic
3) Slovakia
4) Sweden
5) Russia
6) Finland
7) USA
8) Latvia

These predictions are not possible. You need four teams from both the E and F groups.

That could equally well be Finland ;)

That's true too. Sweden or Finland, take your pick...

That's true too. Sweden or Finland, take your pick...

I pick Sweden, better goalie.

I pick Sweden, better goalie.

Well, I woudn't be so sure about that. Niklas Bäckström has been very convincing this year. IMO the two teams have pretty similar chances this time around.

So much for not putting high expectations on your team huh?

;)

What is he supposed to say? We will finish last? :)

Forsberg's predictions are funny. There is nothing wrong in predicting your home country to win (Sweden is allways a contender), but putting Slovenia in the medal round is just hilarious! It doesn't mean that it's impossible... I am 100% sure he said that because of Kopitar who plays in Sweden! I see no other reason to predict Slovenia ahead of Latvia, Germany, Belarus..

Peter was given 8 countries and numbered them. If the reporter who kindly gave him the paper with the countries had written Switzerland, Germany or Zimbabwe for that matter instead of Slovenia, that country would still have been numbered as 8th.

Well, I woudn't be so sure about that. Niklas Bäckström has been very convincing this year. IMO the two teams have pretty similar chances this time around.

Okay, I don't really know anything about that guy so I shouldn't be saying anything. I am just really impressed of Lundqvist this year :jump:

I pick Sweden, better goalie.

If Chicago lose in round 2, only Canada will have a better goalie than Finland (Lehtonen)

If Chicago lose in round 2, only Canada will have a better goalie than Finland (Lehtonen)

oh yeah, but they won't lose with that kinda goalie ;)

My humble opinion:

1. Canada
2. Russia
3. Finland
4. USA
5. Czech Republic
6. Slovakia
7. Sweden
8. Switzerland
9. Austria
10. Latvia
11. Germany
12. Denmark
13. Belarus
14. Ukraine
15. Kazakhstan
16. Slovenia

This is how I think it will end up. I'm not saying that Finland has a better chance of winning the tournament than USA or the Czech Republic, but I think they'll beat a less motivated Team USA in the bronze medal game.

This pretty up sums up my thoughts about the big 7

Safe picks for top 4 finish:

Canada, Sweden, Finland, Slovakia

Teams that'll go full out win or lose:
Czech, Russia, USA

1. Rick Nash
2. Sweden
3. USA
4. Czech
5. Russia
6. Slovakia
7. Kazaks
8. Belarus

bye bye Finland! :rant:

1. Rick Nash
2. Sweden
3. USA
4. Czech
5. Russia
6. Slovakia
7. Kazaks
8. Belarus

bye bye Finland! :rant:
As if Finland will continue to float after that embarrassement... Even a toilet dumper like Erkka can find motivation after that kind of game...

1. Rick Nash
2. Sweden
3. USA
4. Czech
5. Russia
6. Slovakia
7. Kazaks
8. Belarus

bye bye Finland! :rant:

You seem to get a lot of joy out of that hypothetical scenario.

:teach: Gold Czech Republic (Jagr will be the tournament MVP)

Silver Canada (will be stunned by the Czech offense)

Bronze Russia (Their lack of anything but offense will stop them from reaching the finals)

4th Sweden (Lundqvist will CARRY them to a 4th place finish)

Didn't get the Jagr tournament MVP right.... but I was close I guess

And this is the final "Power Ranking" by the official IHWC.net site, some of the comments are pretty funny. :D

#1 Czech Republic
Number one! Saint Jaromir's pinkie will be forever revered

#2 Canada
Number one, eh?

#3 Russia
Anatoly Tarasov would be frowning, but maybe smiling inside

#4 Sweden
So, we got bored of winning silver, and your point is...?

#5 Slovakia
Slovak scientists hard at work on top secret G.O.A.L.I.E. project

#6 USA
Andy Roach: Gone Fishing

#7 Finland
Another year, another early lead, another early exit

#8 Switzerland
Klaus Zaugg says: "Swiss power training will make our bankers world-beaters someday!"

#9 Latvia
Riga, are you ready to RUUUUUUUUUUUUUUMBLE?!!?

#10 Belarus
Coach Hanlonovsky, the President will gladly buy the Washington Capitals and move them to Minsk

#11 Ukraine
A Simchuk solution is often the most elegant

#12 Kazakhstan
Kazinform reports: "Our team dropped out of play though preserved the place in supreme division of the world hockey"

#13 Denmark
The Ugly Duckling is flying high!

#14 Slovenia
Hey, who'd believe it!

#15 Austria
The hills are alive with the sound of hockey sticks smashing

#16 Germany
Claudia Schiffer is also hot, and we make great beer

You can see the Final IIHF World rankings for 2005 here (http://www.internationalhockeygang.org/forum/showthread.php?p=19278#post19278)

You can see the Final IIHF World rankings for 2005 here (http://www.internationalhockeygang.org/forum/showthread.php?p=19278#post19278)


HOw the hell do they work? I mean, how do we get so many points??? This isn't like the freaking ITF or PGA here. We don't play a tourney per weekend. WTF???

And this is the final "Power Ranking" by the official IHWC.net site, some of the comments are pretty funny. :D

#1 Czech Republic
Number one! Saint Jaromir's pinkie will be forever revered

#2 Canada
Number one, eh?

#3 Russia
Anatoly Tarasov would be frowning, but maybe smiling inside

#4 Sweden
So, we got bored of winning silver, and your point is...?

#5 Slovakia
Slovak scientists hard at work on top secret G.O.A.L.I.E. project

#6 USA
Andy Roach: Gone Fishing

#7 Finland
Another year, another early lead, another early exit

#8 Switzerland
Klaus Zaugg says: "Swiss power training will make our bankers world-beaters someday!"

#9 Latvia
Riga, are you ready to RUUUUUUUUUUUUUUMBLE?!!?

#10 Belarus
Coach Hanlonovsky, the President will gladly buy the Washington Capitals and move them to Minsk

#11 Ukraine
A Simchuk solution is often the most elegant

#12 Kazakhstan
Kazinform reports: "Our team dropped out of play though preserved the place in supreme division of the world hockey"

#13 Denmark
The Ugly Duckling is flying high!

#14 Slovenia
Hey, who'd believe it!

#15 Austria
The hills are alive with the sound of hockey sticks smashing

#16 Germany
Claudia Schiffer is also hot, and we make great beer


Pretty good. The eh part is old, though. Us frenchies don't use the eh. We say ********. Which is much better since it really translates our anger after such a boring hockey game.

By the way, Claudia Schiffer is not hot anymore. She's my age. But you do make great beer.

You can see the Final IIHF World rankings for 2005 here (http://www.internationalhockeygang.org/forum/showthread.php?p=19278#post19278)

Bottom 5: Turkey, Luxembourg, Mexico, Ireland, and Armenia.
I'm surprised Turkey is that good.

HOw the hell do they work? I mean, how do we get so many points??? This isn't like the freaking ITF or PGA here. We don't play a tourney per weekend. WTF???It's a calculation that is uses a weighted 4-year system (with the most recent results having the bigger weight) that takes into account a team's final placing in the past 4 World Championships and the most recent Olympics.

Finnish ranking progression from 2002 to 2005: 2.->4.->5.->7. Bah, this must be just a little tactical retreat before our next onslaught. :p:

Finnish ranking progression from 2002 to 2005: 2.->4.->5.->7. Bah, this must be just a little tactical retreat before our next onslaught. :p:

Also keep in mind our 'success' at the junior world championships lately... :(

Also keep in mind our 'success' at the junior world championships lately... :(

And our horrible performance in the World cup, the most meaningfull tournament..