US WJC team announced [Archive]

Buzz Killington

12-03-2008, 01:12 PM

shanthony

12-03-2008, 01:15 PM

Glad to see Hayes make the team, I'm interested in watching him.

Rabid Ranger

12-03-2008, 01:18 PM

John-Eric Iannicello

12-03-2008, 01:20 PM

Wow, team USA looks good.

Bulis hit

12-03-2008, 01:21 PM

I'm really happy to see Ted Ruth making it. It's so rare I get a chance to see him play.

Langway

12-03-2008, 01:22 PM

I thought Carlson was hurt.
Nope.

Whitesnake

12-03-2008, 01:23 PM

I really thought that Colin Long with the type of evaluation camp he had would be there. Same for Morin.

orangeandblack

12-03-2008, 01:25 PM

buddahsmoka1

12-03-2008, 01:27 PM

Tyler Johnson is an interesting addition, but the guy is a heart and soul player and can play amazing defensively. He is one of the main reasons Spokane won the Memorial Cup last year.

RUSqueelin

12-03-2008, 01:28 PM

Apparently the US is a shoe in for the gold medal game. They have 7 Dman better the John Carlson.

Whitesnake

12-03-2008, 01:29 PM

Gotta question the choice of Danny Kristo. Not only is he playing in the USHL, but hes not dominating either.

Habs fans in 3, 2, 1....:D

Rabid Ranger

12-03-2008, 01:32 PM

Rabid Ranger

12-03-2008, 01:35 PM

Apparently the US is a shoe in for the gold medal game. They have 7 Dman better the John Carlson.

I'm not sure that's the right way to look at it. I would have included him on the team, but that doesn't mean his exculsion means the blueline is bad. It looks very good to me.

Markov79fan

12-03-2008, 01:40 PM

Brodeur

12-03-2008, 01:45 PM

Apparently the US is a shoe in for the gold medal game. They have 7 Dman better the John Carlson.

Definitely interesting, although everybody they took is an early '89. My initial thought was maybe there was some backlash for Carlson opting out of college and going to the OHL, but I think they just wanted a slightly more experienced group on defense.

RUSqueelin

12-03-2008, 01:48 PM

I'm not sure that's the right way to look at it. I would have included him on the team, but that doesn't mean his exculsion means the blueline is bad. It looks very good to me.

My point is since Carlson wasn't named, they have the best D in the tournament if there are 7 better players. Easily. Maybe he can change his citizenship and play for Canada - which we would have definately made.

John Carlson would have been one the best Dman in the tourney and really opened some eyes. The kid's getting screwed out of a great opportunity.

orangeandblack

12-03-2008, 01:48 PM

Definitely interesting, although everybody they took is an early '89. My initial thought was maybe there was some backlash for Carlson opting out of college and going to the OHL, but I think they just wanted a slightly more experienced group on defense.

I dont think it has anything to do with him being the OHL.

Rabid Ranger

12-03-2008, 01:50 PM

I dont think it has anything to do with him being the OHL.

Maybe the U.S. brass caught him during his last game when he was -4......

Konk

12-03-2008, 01:50 PM

Most of the team looks about right. Surprised they took Blake Kessel, although hes looked good from what I saw. Still, Id probably take John Carlson over him.

Cant believe they didnt take Colin Long, actually shocked. Anyone know anything behind this? He can score, maybe just didnt fit into the plans. Also, I was expecting Phil McRae to make the team. Gotta question the choice of Danny Kristo. Not only is he playing in the USHL, but hes not dominating either. Also, Im glad they took Tangradi, he going to be a big contributor, he can do alot of different things.

Its and old team, only four '90s, all forwards, possibly oldest in tourney? Really shaping up for '91 dominated team next year.
I agree, Kessel over Carlson is a shock. Kessel is having a good year with UNH, but Carlson is already one of the best defensemen in the OHL. This is worse than leaving Bogosian off last year, at least with Bogosian you could say he was 17 years old and too inexperienced.

I'm not surprised they didn't take Long, he's strikes me as a dominant junior player that doesn't have any particular skill or talent that stands out. Similar to Trevor Lewis, I don't think he'd have an impact at the WJC level and I'm glad they left him off. It seems like they went with a team of hard nosed players who work hard every shift and I'm not sure Long fits that mold. Admittedly, I've seen very little of him.

McRae is doing very good this year, great on draws, staying on his feet and using his size more, he's really come around. I really would've liked to see him there, but they're going for experience, grit, and cohesion. Plus O'Brien and Hayes can bring a lot of what McRae would offer.

Kristo, USA loves him... I can't figure out why. All motor, no brains. The kid is fast, yeah, it's obvious. He's just not particularly skilled or smart. He'll probably play a similar role as Bill Sweatt a few years back.

Love the additions of Johnson and particularly Ruth. Although there are more talented prospects with higher upside, Ruth is an animal on defense. Great character kid and very solid defensively, he and Cole can shut down the opposition.

Aside from Carlson, the other big omission for me is Nick Petrecki. You won't find a meaner kid in any league in the world, he's tough as nails and built like a brick **** house. He would really come in handy on the smaller ice surface against the Canadians.

Quas

12-03-2008, 01:52 PM

A bit differant then what I expected, but IMO a very good team. A better than average CHL presence, especially at forward. I think the U.S. brass got it mostly right, although I would have liked to see Carlson and McRae from London make the squad. I will say this: I think opposing teams are going to have a very difficult time handling the U.S. forwards. A large amount of skill players with size.

It's too bad McRae didnt' make the cut. He looked great at Blues Prospects Camp, maybe even better than Palushaj. I think he came down w/ Mono during the US Camp and that probably hurt his performance and chances of making the team. It looks like he has rebounded pretty well with London so far this season! I think he will be a solid player, good size, good defensively, and good skill level.

I also thought Warsofsky would have a shot as well, but I guess USA is too loaded up w/ D. His size may have also been an issue.

nyrfan444

12-03-2008, 02:07 PM

No Petrecki/Carlson is the biggest crock of **** I have ever witnessed in my entire life. The U.S. management consistently finds away to mess things up.

letterH

12-03-2008, 02:13 PM

thomasincanada

12-03-2008, 02:17 PM

Maybe the U.S. brass caught him during his last game when he was -4......

That game was a hiccup and the entire team played like garbage. He's still +11 on the season.

You could make a strong case for Carlson being the top d-man in the OHL so far this year.. and I doubt anyone would argue that he's not top 3 or 4. If that doesn't put him on the team over Kessel I don't know what would.

Alas.. the US does have a tendency to pick US College players over CHL players and that's certainly a choice they're allowed to make.

Avs_19

12-03-2008, 02:18 PM

Shattenkirk!

Konk

12-03-2008, 02:21 PM

No Petrecki/Carlson is the biggest crock of **** I have ever witnessed in my entire life. The U.S. management consistently finds away to mess things up.
Even though I questioned the omission of Petrecki above, I can understand why they left him off much more so than I can understand leaving Carlson off. Petrecki is prone to gaffs with the puck. He doesn't always make the smart play and can also get overzealous and take bad penalties. Ruth and Cole can bring similar games, but don't go over the edge as much and make smarter plays with the puck. Although they're tough and play solid defense, Petrecki is just plain mean and a man amongst boys physically.

danishh

12-03-2008, 02:23 PM

nice jimmy! obrien should anchor the third line for usa, and i think it will be the most terrifying line to play against in the tourney.

Superscout

12-03-2008, 02:32 PM

It's too bad McRae didnt' make the cut. He looked great at Blues Prospects Camp, maybe even better than Palushaj. I think he came down w/ Mono during the US Camp and that probably hurt his performance and chances of making the team. It looks like he has rebounded pretty well with London so far this season! I think he will be a solid player, good size, good defensively, and good skill level.

I also thought Warsofsky would have a shot as well, but I guess USA is too loaded up w/ D. His size may have also been an issue.

Seems to be some commonality among responses to McRae and Carlson being excluded from the roster. I might suggest a few reasons:

When I say there is bad blood between the Hunters in London and USA Hockey, I'm probably being too kind. Here's some history - Phil McRae played for the US NTDP as an under-ager at 15 yrs. old. His father, Basil, has minority ownership in the OHL London Knights, and the Hunters promised the moon for Phil to report as a 16 yr old after they drafted him 20th overall. He was a sure-fire top 5 pick, but the msg and the "fix" was in for him to go to London.

McRae was not physically ready to play in the OHL his first year, and saw very little ice. He should have stayed put "at least" one more year.

Next, Dale then sent his son Tucker, who they drafted in the 3rd rnd, to the NTDP Evaluation Camp, and was PISSED when they cut Tucker for the U17 team.

The biggest fiasco came when Jared Knight was signed, sealed, delivered and committed to the NTDP Program, only to have the Hunters lure him out of the program, and then the messy release of Knight to the OHL began.

USA Hockey despises what the Hunters have pulled, and unfortunately, it looks like young McRae has paid the price for it. Carlson, it seems, has been a victim of co-lateral damage since he plays for the Hunters because he clearly SHOULD be on that roster.

Chimaera

12-03-2008, 02:32 PM

I'm disappointed that Carlson didn't make it.

But I think he had an idea he wouldn't make it.

What I've seen of him in Caps camp, prospect camp, and in the preseason, he was probably good enough to push some of the NHLers at that time. I can't rightfully believe that there are 7 better defensemen for the Americans. He must have said, done or had something go wrong. It could have been his conditioning in the summer, as the knock was that it was a bit off coming into and right out of the draft. But by camp here in DC, he looked like a stud.

Konk

12-03-2008, 02:34 PM

Colin Long not making it is quite surprising. I do have to chuckle at an above post saying Long doesnt have any skill or talent that stands out? Classic case of someone who doesnt watch a player but thinks they know one. Long is likely the best passer/set-up guy in the WHL. He has the ability to find the open guy like no one I have seen in years. Jamie Benn doesnt get all of his goals if Long isnt putting the puck on his stick. Long is small and not a fantastic skater but is very strong along the boards and often if the guy coming out of the scrum with the puck. It seems each year the US fails to bring the top WHL guys and each year once the tourney is over fans call for this to change. I realize they did choose more than last year but with Long at the top of WHl two straight years, I think he would help.

My guess is the classic case of if he doesnt play top 6, then he doesnt make it and he wouldnt be a great defensive guy or shutting down the top lines of other teams.
Classic case of someone who doesn't read.

I did admit I've seen very little of Long, but like I said, nothing stood out to me when I did watch him. I certainly didn't see anything appealing about his skating, stick handling, shot, or style of play to make him stand out above anyone else. He didn't display his playmaking acumen. If that's what he brings, great. But there aren't any pure goal scorers on the squad that he'd be playing with and he'd only be effective on a scoring line.

With JVR/Wilson/Schroeder and Bowman/Wahl/Palushaj, Long is pretty much excess and unneeded. All of the above (particularly Schroeder) are exceptional playmakers. So where does he fit? Who does he unseat?

Konk

12-03-2008, 02:37 PM

USA Hockey despises what the Hunters have pulled, and unfortunately, it looks like young McRae has paid the price for it. Carlson, it seems, has been a victim of co-lateral damage since he plays for the Hunters because he clearly SHOULD be on that roster.
I think it would hurt London more if USA Hockey had named them to the squad and London would have to play without them for a few weeks.

Tuggy

12-03-2008, 02:38 PM

What about Pacioretty?

Buck Naked

12-03-2008, 02:40 PM

Wooohooo, go Tangradi!

buddahsmoka1

12-03-2008, 02:47 PM

What about Pacioretty?

He turned pro, not eligible.

IceBreaker

12-03-2008, 02:48 PM

Pacioretty is an 88. WJC is for 89s and younger.

STHLM*

12-03-2008, 03:24 PM

Apparently the US is a shoe in for the gold medal game. They have 7 Dman better the John Carlson.

Is it the whole US team about the d-men????? What about goalie and forwards?

Avery4Byng

12-03-2008, 03:28 PM

Colin Long gets snubbed, USA Hockey continuing to show everyone how retarded they are.

redwhiteandblue

12-03-2008, 03:33 PM

Seems to be some commonality among responses to McRae and Carlson being excluded from the roster. I might suggest a few reasons:

When I say there is bad blood between the Hunters in London and USA Hockey, I'm probably being too kind. Here's some history - Phil McRae played for the US NTDP as an under-ager at 15 yrs. old. His father, Basil, has minority ownership in the OHL London Knights, and the Hunters promised the moon for Phil to report as a 16 yr old after they drafted him 20th overall. He was a sure-fire top 5 pick, but the msg and the "fix" was in for him to go to London.

McRae was not physically ready to play in the OHL his first year, and saw very little ice. He should have stayed put "at least" one more year.

Next, Dale then sent his son Tucker, who they drafted in the 3rd rnd, to the NTDP Evaluation Camp, and was PISSED when they cut Tucker for the U17 team.

The biggest fiasco came when Jared Knight was signed, sealed, delivered and committed to the NTDP Program, only to have the Hunters lure him out of the program, and then the messy release of Knight to the OHL began.

USA Hockey despises what the Hunters have pulled, and unfortunately, it looks like young McRae has paid the price for it. Carlson, it seems, has been a victim of co-lateral damage since he plays for the Hunters because he clearly SHOULD be on that roster.

I don't think it has anything to do with NTDP having McRae "pay the price". Although all the above did happen, they still picked McRae up for the U18 tournament last year, leaving some of "their own" behind. I am not shocked he wasn't selected when I look at the forward roster. I am a little shocked about Colin Long, but as previous posters have mentioned, after the top 6 forwards, maybe looking for more "role players"
There will always be doubt when a team is selected. Just wait, the same will happens when Canada selects their team.

Oilers Chick

12-03-2008, 03:51 PM

There will always be doubt when a team is selected. Just wait, the same will happens when Canada selects their team.

Yeah, but it's the pro-CHL people that are doing most of the whining here (go figure). If Team USA were ever made up of entirely CHL players, those same people would still be whining about it.

So far as I can tell, the only collegian that people are complaining about that didn't make the team is Nick Petrecki. I would've like to have seen Petrecki make it myself, but I also happen to like pretty much all of the players (yes, including those CHL players) that have been chosen. Will it mean a medal for Team USA? We'll all find out in January.

Randall Graves*

12-03-2008, 04:09 PM

Carlson should be on the team over Ruth and Fairchild easily.

McRae should be there over Rust, easily.

But no major omissions I suppose.

SeNaToR PhIL

12-03-2008, 04:10 PM

Not really familiar with about half of the players. What is the American squad's main strength?

wjhl2009fan

12-03-2008, 04:12 PM

He turned pro, not eligible.

Players who are pro are eligible.

Randall Graves*

12-03-2008, 04:13 PM

I agree, Kessel over Carlson is a shock. Kessel is having a good year with UNH, but Carlson is already one of the best defensemen in the OHL. This is worse than leaving Bogosian off last year, at least with Bogosian you could say he was 17 years old and too inexperienced.

I'm not surprised they didn't take Long, he's strikes me as a dominant junior player that doesn't have any particular skill or talent that stands out. Similar to Trevor Lewis, I don't think he'd have an impact at the WJC level and I'm glad they left him off. It seems like they went with a team of hard nosed players who work hard every shift and I'm not sure Long fits that mold. Admittedly, I've seen very little of him.

McRae is doing very good this year, great on draws, staying on his feet and using his size more, he's really come around. I really would've liked to see him there, but they're going for experience, grit, and cohesion. Plus O'Brien and Hayes can bring a lot of what McRae would offer.

Kristo, USA loves him... I can't figure out why. All motor, no brains. The kid is fast, yeah, it's obvious. He's just not particularly skilled or smart. He'll probably play a similar role as Bill Sweatt a few years back.

Love the additions of Johnson and particularly Ruth. Although there are more talented prospects with higher upside, Ruth is an animal on defense. Great character kid and very solid defensively, he and Cole can shut down the opposition.

Aside from Carlson, the other big omission for me is Nick Petrecki. You won't find a meaner kid in any league in the world, he's tough as nails and built like a brick **** house. He would really come in handy on the smaller ice surface against the Canadians.
I'm not surprised about Petrecki, I was saying 3 months ago i'd be surprised if he made the team, though that was with the assumption Bogosion would be there. I look at it like this..

Ruth
Fairchild
Kessel

vs

Petrecki
Carlson
Gardiner/Ness

Makes you think.......

windflare

12-03-2008, 04:13 PM

Amazing. A CHL presence.

Carlson would've been nice over Kessel, though he's been playing fine this season.

worstfaceoffmanever

12-03-2008, 04:14 PM

No Petrecki/Carlson is the biggest crock of **** I have ever witnessed in my entire life. The U.S. management consistently finds away to mess things up.

Agreed, Carlson and especially Petrecki should be on the squad. I think it would almost guarantee the squad a medal. I like the Ruth pick, but I think swapping out Carlson for Fairchild and Petrecki for Kessel would've made this team exponentially better.

Konk

12-03-2008, 04:22 PM

Carlson should be on the team over Ruth and Fairchild easily.

McRae should be there over Rust, easily.

But no major omissions I suppose.
There's no way McRae would be there over Rust. McRae would have to be on a scoring line to be effective, he couldn't replace Rust's shutdown ability or tenacity in the corners and in traffic. It's skill player vs. grinder, two different roles. Plus Rust has seniority and WJC experience.

I'm not surprised about Petrecki, I was saying 3 months ago i'd be surprised if he made the team, though that was with the assumption Bogosion would be there. I look at it like this..

Ruth
Fairchild
Kessel

vs

Petrecki
Carlson
Gardiner/Ness

Makes you think.......
I actually would've been surprised if he made the team as well, because USA Hockey has never been a big fan of Petrecki's game.

As far as Gardiner/Ness, neither one is ready nor is either one better than Ruth, Fairchild, or Kessel right now.

Gardiner is settling down and playing well, but he needs some time and experience. By next year I'm sure he'll be ready and able. That won't be a bad defensive core either with Carlson, Fowler, Gardiner, Ness, Warsofsky, Moore, Comrie, Wrenn, Wey, Phillips, etc. as possibilities.

redwhiteandblue

12-03-2008, 04:28 PM

Carlson should be on the team over Ruth and Fairchild easily.

McRae should be there over Rust, easily.

But no major omissions I suppose.

McRae over Rust. Two completely different players! Not quite sure what McRae would ADD to this team that it doesn't already have, but Rust can play any role. He is a tireless checker. Not big in stature but never backs down in any battle. He is also very skilled and a great face-off guy. It doesn't matter what role they throw at him, they know what they will get out of Matt Rust. A "go to the wall for the team" player.
Unless McRae has changed significantly over the past few months, I am not sure if he has all these attributes.
Sometimes teams, and they should, pick players for specific roles that will help the team win in the end.

Konk

12-03-2008, 04:32 PM

McRae over Rust. Two completely different players! Not quite sure what McRae would ADD to this team that it doesn't already have, but Rust can play any role. He is a tireless checker. Not big in stature but never backs down in any battle. He is also very skilled and a great face-off guy. It doesn't matter what role they throw at him, they know what they will get out of Matt Rust. A "go to the wall for the team" player.
Unless McRae has changed significantly over the past few months, I am not sure if he has all these attributes.
Sometimes teams, and they should, pick players for specific roles that will help the team win in the end.
Faceoffs, that's about it. He's still the same skilled player he was when he was 5'11'' on the NTDP u-17 team, he's just finally growing into that 6'2'' frame. He'll be a top 2 line player at next year's WJCs.

Oilers Chick

12-03-2008, 04:35 PM

As far as Gardiner/Ness, neither one is ready nor is either one better than Ruth, Fairchild, or Kessel right now.

Gardiner is settling down and playing well, but he needs some time and experience. By next year I'm sure he'll be ready and able. That won't be a bad defensive core either with Carlson, Fowler, Gardiner, Ness, Warsofsky, Moore, Comrie, Wrenn, Wey, Phillips, etc. as possibilities.

I agree with you here, Konk. I don't think that Gardiner nor Ness are quite ready yet either. I do think that they'll have a shot next year. Team USA will have some really tough decisions to make on these great Americans coming down the pipe (sorry Guy ;) ) for the 2010 and 2011 WJCs, there are going to be a bunch of extremely talented kids, some of whom you've already mentioned that can really load up the USA squad in the future.

thomasincanada

12-03-2008, 04:40 PM

Yeah, but it's the pro-CHL people that are doing most of the whining here (go figure). If Team USA were ever made up of entirely CHL players, those same people would still be whining about it.

You can blame it on pro CHL people if you want... but year in year out the US underperforms in the WJHC while at the same time ignoring top talent from the CHL. It seems quite ridiculous to me.

Honestly I don't think winning is their priority - and it shows. I personally would like to see more competitive US teams and management that looks at skill first and not location.

Oilers Chick

12-03-2008, 04:52 PM

You can blame it on pro CHL people if you want... but year in year out the US underperforms in the WJHC while at the same time ignoring top talent from the CHL. It seems quite ridiculous to me.

Honestly I don't think winning is their priority - and it shows. I personally would like to see more competitive US teams and management that looks at skill first and not location.

What makes you think that they weren't looking at skill first? Looking at this year's roster, they've got some darn good kids from college as well as the CHL. There are more CHL kids this year than there were last year.

One poster made a comment earlier that I totally agree with, and that is, you have to have a good mix of players that bring different, yet high quality attributes to the table. I think Matt Rust is a great example. He's not a 50-point guy and I seriously doubt he ever will be, not at Michigan anyway. But he brings elements that are important to winning - he's a grinder, he doesn't back down to physical confrontation, and so forth. He also brings experience. Maybe there are comparable players who may be better, but we're not the ones choosing. Like I said earlier, I don't know if it will or won't get Team USA a medal, but we'll see come January.

Konk

12-03-2008, 04:53 PM

You can blame it on pro CHL people if you want... but year in year out the US underperforms in the WJHC while at the same time ignoring top talent from the CHL. It seems quite ridiculous to me.
At the same time, they've ignored just as much NCAA talent as they have CHL. While picking some players from the CHL and the core of their teams being NTDP grads, who are mostly NCAAers (save the Kanes and Muellers of the past).

But who's to say picking the CHLers would result in gold? Their only gold medal came in 2004, when they were predominantly made up of NCAA talent. So saying they're not winning because they aren't picking enough CHL talent is baseless. Obviously with guys like Bowman, Wahl, Blum, Johnson, etc. they are looking at the CHL.
Honestly I don't think winning is their priority - and it shows. I personally would like to see more competitive US teams and management that looks at skill first and not location.
What a ridiculous thing to say. Winning is everyone's top priority. I think that should be obvious when they've created an entire development program to build a core of players every year that they've developed for the purpose of competing in international tournaments such as the WJCs.

They've come up short because they've been beaten, plain and simple. Beaten by better teams with better coaching. The kids end up doing things like throwing their sticks (the Johnsons) fighting at the end of games (vs. Russia) and acting childish, unsportsmanlike, giving up after they've lost a chance at gold and finishing 4th year after year. These are all signs of terrible coaching, which has always been USA Hockey's achillies heel. The only decent coach they've ever had at the WJCs has been Mike Eaves.

thomasincanada

12-03-2008, 05:00 PM

What makes you think that they weren't looking at skill first? Looking at this year's roster, they've got some darn good kids from college as well as the CHL. There are more CHL kids this year than there were last year.

The exclusion of Carlson makes me think they weren't looking at skill first.

However I do agree that McRae might not have been a fit.

Oshniak

12-03-2008, 05:06 PM

Any chances of Fairchild being paired with Cole?

thomasincanada

12-03-2008, 05:16 PM

At the same time, they've ignored just as much NCAA talent as they have CHL. While picking some players from the CHL and the core of their teams being NTDP grads, who are mostly NCAAers (save the Kanes and Muellers of the past).

But who's to say picking the CHLers would result in gold? Their only gold medal came in 2004, when they were predominantly made up of NCAA talent. So saying they're not winning because they aren't picking enough CHL talent is baseless. Obviously with guys like Bowman, Wahl, Blum, Johnson, etc. they are looking at the CHL.

It's not baseless at all.. one win with NCAA talent doesn't change that. I'm also not saying more CHLers would result in gold - but I do think there would be a few more medals. 3 in 15 years or so is pretty poor.

The US should do better in this tournament.. you agree. You blame the coaches.. I blame the lack of depth on a lot of these recent US teams which I feel would be better filled with some of the overlooked CHL guys. Nowhere did I say they completely overlook it.. it's just given second priority - especially the players who opt out of the NDTP.

What a ridiculous thing to say. Winning is everyone's top priority. I think that should be obvious when they've created an entire development program to build a core of players every year that they've developed for the purpose of competing in international tournaments such as the WJCs.

I do think they want to win, don't get me wrong, I just think they'd rather do with with NTDP/College guys than with CHL guys. Part of me doesn't blame them to be honest.

MN_Gopher

12-03-2008, 05:22 PM

I like the USA team. They have guys that play great roles and pick it up in a snap.

I have seen much of Hoeffel. He can go 100MPH. Shoots a rocket, great on PKs, will bang in front. All things he can just do.

O'Brien. Is a big strong guy. Like Hoeffel can cycle, not afraid to get to the front of the net. Shuld be great on the PK as well.

And Fairchild. Was got enough to make the team last year. Played well. His play this year has definitly gone up a notch.

What i remember of Carlson last year in the USHL. Was great over the long haul. But any one game he could stumble. And took a bit to get going. Petrecki same thing. In a 20 game series. Those two big kids could wear on you. But we do not have the luxury of time.

Guys like Gardiner and Ness are only 20 games removed from high school. I doubt the US will ever take college freshmen that played high school the year before. Ness did play international last year. But it is not enough.

Randall Graves*

12-03-2008, 05:44 PM

I would just like to say despite a few questions about who isn't on the team I think we might have the best team depending on how the goaltending holds up.

buddahsmoka1

12-03-2008, 06:05 PM

Is Josh Unice going to be the starter?

Redwingsfan

12-03-2008, 06:18 PM

Is Josh Unice going to be the starter?

Hopefully not:D

SeNaToR PhIL

12-03-2008, 06:19 PM

nice jimmy! obrien should anchor the third line for usa, and i think it will be the most terrifying line to play against in the tourney.

Indeed, go Jimmy go!!! :handclap:

Wild GM

12-03-2008, 06:21 PM

No Petrecki is staggering. A joke.

VOB

12-03-2008, 06:35 PM

No Petrecki is staggering. A joke.

Per usual, some very questionable decision making on the part of the USA brass. Overall though I am pleased with the picks. This is a well balanced team that certainly has a chance at a gold.

I cannot remember a time when Canada was missing so much of their top talent. This really does open up the door for a U.S. victory on Canadian ice!

Johnny Snake Eyes

12-03-2008, 06:46 PM

i thought morin wound make the 2nd line because besides that he would be useless. surprised carlson didnt make it because i thought he would have been there number 1 dman. i like this team alot. the top line should dominate like no other line.

avskid

12-03-2008, 06:52 PM

go kim johnsson 514

12-03-2008, 06:52 PM

Fairchild was on the team last year. You don't dump those guys unless they're terrible.

Carlson getting snubbed may have something to do with him snubbing college.

The Mars Volchenkov

12-03-2008, 06:54 PM

Carlson getting snubbed may have something to do with him snubbing college.
Jim O'Brien left the NCAA for the WHL and made the team.

bruinsfan46

12-03-2008, 06:59 PM

Wow, looks like a very strong US team. The first thing I noticed was how old they were, they have to the be the oldest in the tourney. A little surprised to not see Carlson and Long there, McRae's a strong player who's played quite well this year but I still wasn't expecting him to make the team, I thought next year will be his turn.

redwhiteandblue

12-03-2008, 07:08 PM

It's not baseless at all.. one win with NCAA talent doesn't change that. I'm also not saying more CHLers would result in gold - but I do think there would be a few more medals. 3 in 15 years or so is pretty poor.

The US should do better in this tournament.. you agree. You blame the coaches.. I blame the lack of depth on a lot of these recent US teams which I feel would be better filled with some of the overlooked CHL guys. Nowhere did I say they completely overlook it.. it's just given second priority - especially the players who opt out of the NDTP.

I do think they want to win, don't get me wrong, I just think they'd rather do with with NTDP/College guys than with CHL guys. Part of me doesn't blame them to be honest.

Last years team had all the makings of a gold medal team. In round robin play, they dominated! Coach Hynes was too worried about Canada in the semis and I think that was the difference. He played the lines completely differently than he had in the "Pool" games. Come the semi-finals and matching lines, he dropped the ball. Two, too many men penalties in that game are proof that there was confusion because he changed his system and no one was quite sure what was going on. I think Rolston will have more success, but not sure if this team has the same chemistry as last years. I guess we will have to wait and see.

go kim johnsson 514

12-03-2008, 07:32 PM

Jim O'Brien left the NCAA for the WHL and made the team.

This is true, but wasn't he snubbed last year?

who do you guys see as being the leaders of this team? Who will be captains and assistants? How do you see the lineup shaping up (line combo's, defence pairings, starting goalie)? What do you think of Shattenkirk? As an avs fan I can be bias and would like to know unbias views.

I gotta think JVR will be captain. Only guy on the team who is on the team for a third time.

Johnnyduke

12-03-2008, 07:37 PM

No Petrecki? Give me a break.

William H Bonney

12-03-2008, 07:40 PM

I gotta think JVR will be captain. Only guy on the team who is on the team for a third time.

JVR - C
Cole - A
Rust - A
Hoeffel - A

My guesses.

Hopper15

12-03-2008, 07:51 PM

Nick Petrecki should have made the team.

redwhiteandblue

12-03-2008, 08:03 PM

Blum - Captain
JVR - Assistant
Shattenkirk - Assistant
Wilson - Assistant

I think Blum has an edge this year as the Captain of this team. JVR, yes, third time but I don't think has the Leadership qualities to lead this team, but certainly deserves a letter.

Libertine

12-03-2008, 10:45 PM

I'm disappointed Carlson didn't make it. :(

chaosrevolver

12-03-2008, 10:47 PM

Is Josh Unice going to be the starter?I doubt it. TM should start in my book. Granted, things can change when one goalie goes cold and/or the other gets hot.

danishh

12-03-2008, 11:19 PM

This is true, but wasn't he snubbed last year?

yeah, he didnt make it last year. If you look at his play since selections last year, however, it would have been impossible to keep him off the team. I think if the US redoes their picks, he would make it last year in retrospect, but Jimmy didnt have a good start in the WHL last year and was injured early too. Probably a decision based on all that, not on where he was playing.

nyrfan444

12-03-2008, 11:19 PM

Coming back to this thread, I am just baffled that Blake Kessel made this team. In the 3 times I've watched him this season he has shown me absolutely nothing offensively, and a mediocre defensive game - in Hockey East games. It has to be the "brother connection".

Punch Imlach

12-03-2008, 11:28 PM

Glad to see Hayes make the team, I'm interested in watching him.

Me too, cant wait to see what Jimmy has to offer. And if he plays with the other Jimmy and Tangredi, thats going to be a punishing 3rd line.

Oilers Chick

12-03-2008, 11:37 PM

who do you guys see as being the leaders of this team? Who will be captains and assistants? How do you see the lineup shaping up (line combo's, defence pairings, starting goalie)? What do you think of Shattenkirk? As an avs fan I can be bias and would like to know unbias views.

My guess is that JVR will be named captain, just based on his experience. The assistants? I don't know, there are a lot of guys who could wear the "A".

I'm guessing that the top line of JVR-Wilson-Schroeder will be back together again, since they were so successful together in last year's WJC.

I'm also going to go out on a linb and say that Cole and Ruth will be paired up since they've played together much of the time since arriving at Notre Dame and have great chemistry together.

I really like the selection of Shattenkirk. He moves the puck well and he can get up and down the ice well too. Who Shattenkirk will be paired with I'm not sure, but I'd like to see him and Blom together on the PP.

Oilers Chick

12-03-2008, 11:41 PM

oops, I spelled Blum name wrong. Sorry about that. :D

danishh

12-03-2008, 11:44 PM

hayes-obrien-tangradi
6'5 210 -- 6'2 200 -- 6'4 221

and they all play a punishing game. If these guys play together, they should be the most fun line in the tourney to watch.

*note the updated stats. They have all bulked up and hayes and tangredi have grown a bit too.

Gunnar Stahl 30

12-03-2008, 11:50 PM

WOOOOOOO tangradi made it

Gunnar Stahl 30

12-03-2008, 11:52 PM

any guesses with lines?

sk84fun_dc

12-04-2008, 12:07 AM

My guess is that JVR will be named captain, just based on his experience. The assistants? I don't know, there are a lot of guys who could wear the "A".

I'm guessing that the top line of JVR-Wilson-Schroeder will be back together again, since they were so successful together in last year's WJC.

I'm also going to go out on a linb and say that Cole and Ruth will be paired up since they've played together much of the time since arriving at Notre Dame and have great chemistry together.

I really like the selection of Shattenkirk. He moves the puck well and he can get up and down the ice well too. Who Shattenkirk will be paired with I'm not sure, but I'd like to see him and Blom together on the PP.

OC - I know you follow the NCAA players much more closely than I do. It wouldn't surprise me to see the 2 Notre Dame d-men as a pairing (given their familiarity from years playing on the same team and being partners at times on the NTDP team), but Ruth's d partner last season was Brock Sheahan. IIRC, Cole paired with Lawson last season and in the few games I have followed this season, seemed to me that pairing was still together and that Ruth was playing with Blatchford.

Gunnar Stahl 30

12-04-2008, 12:12 AM

anyone think tangradi will get an A? he is the captain for the belleville bulls and is one of the older guys on the team

Oilers Chick

12-04-2008, 12:25 AM

OC - I know you follow the NCAA players much more closely than I do. It wouldn't surprise me to see the 2 Notre Dame d-men as a pairing (given their familiarity from years playing on the same team and being partners at times on the NTDP team), but Ruth's d partner last season was Brock Sheahan. IIRC, Cole paired with Lawson last season and in the few games I have followed this season, seemed to me that pairing was still together and that Ruth was playing with Blatchford.

You're right, but I've also seen Jackson throw the two together from time to time with really good results too (maybe I should've reworded my post a bit).

Johnny Snake Eyes

12-04-2008, 12:40 AM

ya on the brother connection with kessel, that wouldnt surprise me considering phil is the ntdp golden player.

Dick van Riemsdyk

12-04-2008, 02:00 AM

Hopefully the "C", that JVR wore in this pic from the development camp games with Sweden/Finland, stays on his jersey.

http://i69.photobucket.com/albums/i62/timaa21/JVRC.jpg

Randall Graves*

12-04-2008, 02:02 AM

SchwenningerWildWing

12-04-2008, 03:13 AM

I throw in another name which surprised me not to see on the US roster: Colby Cohen, 12 points in 12 games for BU is not too shabby. I thought he would get a shot

Leslie Treff

12-04-2008, 04:39 AM

Deservedly or not, Cohen has a bad attitude reputation that precedes him. Not surprised at all that he did not make it.

Caner Soze

12-04-2008, 04:50 AM

Woohoo, they didn't pass up Bowman this year.

Scribe

12-04-2008, 09:35 AM

orangeandblack

12-04-2008, 10:15 AM

Deservedly or not, Cohen has a bad attitude reputation that precedes him. Not surprised at all that he did not make it.

Yea, reputation for bad attitude, and hes great offensively, but would be a huge defensive liability.

MN_Gopher

12-04-2008, 10:41 AM

That's a great team. They should beat the Swedes in the gold-medal game. As for O'Brien, I'm not surprised. It's not Don Lucia picking the team, it's USA Hockey, where O'Brien played two years for NTDP. The thing about O'Brien is he will play whatever role he's asked and do it well. He's the kind of player that helps teams win, IMO, without being a star.

Why you getting on Lucia. Or is he just the first college coach you could think of? tDon might have chosen O'Brien last year. He complimented him many times. As a hard working, smart, tough kid. And was sad he had to go. tDon played him on the PK as a the youngest player in D1 hockey a few years back. Thats confidenace.

As for people getting snubbed. There is always going to be arguments. Hasn't the US played for a medal in like 7 straight or 6 straight. As a big amatuer hockey fan. I find it hard to realisticaly think my USA team should expect to be a top 3 country beyond question. we had some let downs i know. But the bronze after the shoot out with Canada. What are you going to do. We had some bad bounces in there.

Players like McDonaugh last year. They fit in the same way as Goligoski out of HS, Oshie out of HS, Wheeler out of HS, now Ness and Gardiner. They make it in their second year.

On D this year. I think a guy like Kessel, although #s at UNH do not show it. Are more O-minded than a Petrecki. With big forwards. It seems the D has a more O flavor. Cannot say i 100% agree or disagree. But it looks like they had a plan. Big strong forwrds to get to the net. And D men to get the puck in that area.

GoChiefsGo

12-04-2008, 10:49 AM

Like almost everyone else, I'm a little bit surprised that Long isn't on the squad. I've seen him play enough to know that he's definitely worked hard enough and is talented enough.

Unfortunate for him, but it's neat to see a local kid in Johnson get the chance to showcase his 2-way skills, and Bowman and Wahl finally are getting their due. O'Brien should be a good fit from Seattle as well; good skater, good at both ends. Can't say enough about the other So. Cal. kid Blum. Might turn out to be the steal of his draft.

Great to see decent WHL representation.

Konk

12-04-2008, 10:56 AM

Yea, reputation for bad attitude, and hes great offensively, but would be a huge defensive liability.
Every single defenseman named to the team can list skating and mobility amongst their strengths, while Cohen's is average at best. I think for a puck rushing defenseman, they'd like his skating to be a bit better.

wildone26*

12-04-2008, 11:58 AM

This is a team on paper strong enough to have a good shot of the gold medal. They always seem to underperform at the World juniors though.

bigd

12-04-2008, 12:00 PM

I throw in another name which surprised me not to see on the US roster: Colby Cohen, 12 points in 12 games for BU is not too shabby. I thought he would get a shot
The numbers are very deceiving. He has had a rough first half defensively.

wjhl2009fan

12-04-2008, 12:59 PM

This is a team on paper strong enough to have a good shot of the gold medal. They always seem to underperform at the World juniors though.

It will be interesting to see how the handle the crowd.

Scribe

12-04-2008, 01:19 PM

Why you getting on Lucia. Or is he just the first college coach you could think of? tDon might have chosen O'Brien last year. He complimented him many times. As a hard working, smart, tough kid. And was sad he had to go. tDon played him on the PK as a the youngest player in D1 hockey a few years back. Thats confidenace.

Settle down, Gopher.

Not "getting on" Lucia and I mentioned him because his was the first name that came to mind when I wondered who coached O'Brien at Minnesota.

Also, since O'Brien first asked to get into Minnesota early and then left after one year to go play junior, I suspected there might be some animosity on Lucia's part. If I were in Lucia's position, I might resent the kid for doing that -- so I could certainly sympathize with Lucia if he felt that way. But, as you've stated, Lucia harbours no ill will toward O'Brien. Obviously, since he recruited him and played him on the PK as a 17-year-old freshman, he has confidence in his skills. I never suggested otherwise.

Joe Hallenback

12-04-2008, 01:23 PM

I thought Bowman Long Wahl would have been a pretty good second line for the US

HeresHedman

12-04-2008, 01:58 PM

Forwards (13): Drayson Bowman, Jimmy Hayes, Mike Hoeffel, Tyler Johnson, Danny Kristo, Jim O’Brien, Aaron Palushaj, Matt Rust, Jordan Schroeder, Eric Tangradi, James van Riemsdyk, Mitch Wahl, Colin Wilson

Defensemen (7): Jonathon Blum, Ian Cole, Cade Fairchild, Blake Kessel, Ryan McDonagh, Teddy Ruth, Kevin Shattenkirk

Goalies (2): Thomas McCollum, Josh Unice

There are 7 returnees from last year and van Riemsdyk is now on his 3rd Jr. National Team

GoChiefsGo

12-05-2008, 10:46 AM

I thought Bowman Long Wahl would have been a pretty good second line for the US

They would...but if you put a third guy with them they are good enough to be the first. :sarcasm:

Lime

12-05-2008, 12:06 PM

John Carlsons don't come around very often. Either USA Hockey is driven by politics or their mgmt cannot properly evaluate hockey players.

Rabid Ranger

12-05-2008, 12:09 PM

John Carlsons don't come around very often. Either USA Hockey is driven by politics or their mgmt cannot properly evaluate hockey players.

Please explain "politics" in this instance.

thomasincanada

12-05-2008, 02:57 PM

Please explain "politics" in this instance.

Don't get into a discussion with Lime.. it'll only make your brain hurt. You have been warned.

orangeandblack

12-05-2008, 03:00 PM

John Carlsons don't come around very often. Either USA Hockey is driven by politics or their mgmt cannot properly evaluate hockey players.

There would be no reason for politics to have any bearing on Carlson not being selected. I thought Carlson and Long were shoo-ins for the team, I was wrong, and really dont know why they didnt make it. I would have taken Carlson over Kessel, Fairchild and Shattenkirk without even thinking.

Even if you dont think Long is going to be one of your 6 skill forwards, I would have still taken him as the 13th. Id rather use him as a top 6 if one of the originals get hurt, then move someone up. I like the Tyler Johnson choice. A 4th line of him, Hoeffel and Rust is an all energy, everything you got line that you need.

I wouldnt have taken Kristo, in fact I didnt even think Kristo was on the radar. The Kristo and Kessel choices really puzzle me to be honest. Every year theres several questionable choices, however the number is less then usual, but the 2 are more puzzling. I just dont see it.

vivianmb

12-05-2008, 03:13 PM

i wonder why wilson went with team usa. is it because he'd have a hard time making team canada?

vivianmb

12-05-2008, 03:14 PM

John Carlsons don't come around very often. Either USA Hockey is driven by politics or their mgmt cannot properly evaluate hockey players.

usa hockey is totally driven by politics.
they'll take ntdp players over anyone else, to reward them for staying in the system.

VOB

12-05-2008, 03:20 PM

usa hockey is totally driven by politics.
they'll take ntdp players over anyone else, to reward them for staying in the system.

The exclusion of Petrecki is just as troublesome. I am not sure what the USA Hockey brass sees in a player like Kessel and it is difficult to defend their decision especially when viewed with their prior choices in years past.

Scribe

12-05-2008, 03:26 PM

i wonder why wilson went with team usa. is it because he'd have a hard time making team canada?

Wilson's already played for Team USA. Can't switch as per IIHF rules. He'd be a solid candidate to make Team Canada, I would think.

Konk

12-05-2008, 03:38 PM

i wonder why wilson went with team usa. is it because he'd have a hard time making team canada?
It's because he considers himself an American. He says since he was growing up, his father cheered for Canada and he cheered for the US.

He's always been good enough to make the Canadian teams, but he wanted to play for the US.

Big Daddy

12-05-2008, 05:23 PM

While I've had problems with the selection process in the past, taking 8 CHL guys has shut me up for now. Full marks to USA Hockey for getting way out of their comfort level.

Long being left off is puzzling, I've seen a ton of his games and he is a damn responsible and honest player. Don't know much about Carlson but it sounds like he should be there also according to several knowledgeable posters.

vivianmb

12-05-2008, 08:57 PM

Wilson's already played for Team USA. Can't switch as per IIHF rules. He'd be a solid candidate to make Team Canada, I would think.

yeah i knew that i was just wondering why he originally went to play for the usa when he probably doesn't even remember living in the states.

vivianmb

12-05-2008, 08:58 PM

It's because he considers himself an American. He says since he was growing up, his father cheered for Canada and he cheered for the US.

He's always been good enough to make the Canadian teams, but he wanted to play for the US.

ok thanks.

AmericanDream

12-06-2008, 03:59 AM

http://www.usahockey.com/world_junior_championships_2009/default.aspx?NAV=AF_06&id=248052&DetailedNews=yes

http://usahockey.cachefly.net/Media/WJC-Roster.doc

30 Thomas McCollum 6-2 (188) 206 (93) 12/7/89 L Sanborn, N.Y. Guelph Storm (OHL)/Detroit Red Wings
1 Josh Unice 6-0 (183) 175 (79) 6/24/89 L Holland, Ohio Kitchener Rangers (OHL)/Chicago Blackhawks

DEFENSEMEN (7)
24 Jonathon Blum* 6-1 (185) 185 (84) 1/30/89 R Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif. Vancouver Giants (WHL)/Nashville Predators
28 Ian Cole* 6-1 (185) 218 (99) 2/21/89 L Ann Arbor, Mich. Univ. of Notre Dame (CCHA)/St. Louis Blues
4 Cade Fairchild* 5-10 (178) 186 (84) 1/15/89 L Duluth, Minn. Univ. of Minnesota (WCHA)/St. Louis Blues
20 Blake Kessel 6-2 (188) 204 (92) 4/13/89 R Madison, Wis. Univ. of New Hampshire (HEA)/ New York Islanders
17 Ryan McDonagh 6-1 (185) 208 (94) 6/13/89 L Arden Hills, Minn. Univ. of Wisconsin (WCHA)/Montreal Canadiens
5 Teddy Ruth 6-0 (183) 205 (93) 2/14/89 R Naperville, Ill. Univ. of Notre Dame (CCHA)/Columbus Blue Jackets
8 Kevin Shattenkirk 5-11 (180) 193 (87) 1/29/89 R New Rochelle, N.Y. Boston University (HEA)/Colorado Avalanche

FORWARDS (13)
27 Drayson Bowman 6-1 (185) 195 (88) 3/8/89 L Littleton, Colo. Spokane Chiefs (WHL)/Carolina Hurricanes
12 Jimmy Hayes 6-3 (191) 205 (93) 11/21/89 R Dorchester, Mass. Boston College (HEA)/Toronto Maple Leafs
11 Mike Hoeffel 6-3 (191) 195 (88) 4/9/89 L North Oaks, Minn. Univ. of Minnesota (WCHA)/New Jersey Devils
10 Tyler Johnson 5-9 (175) 175 (79) 7/29/90 L Spokane, Wash. Spokane Chiefs (WHL)/Free Agent
18 Danny Kristo 5-11 (180) 180 (82) 6/18/90 R Eden Prairie, Minn. Omaha Lancers (USHL)/Montreal Canadiens
15 Jim O’Brien 6-2 (188) 190 (86) 1/29/89 R Maplewood, Minn. Seattle Thunderbirds (WHL)/Ottawa Senators
7 Aaron Palushaj 6-0 (183) 185 (84) 9/7/89 R Northville, Mich. Univ. of Michigan (CCHA)/St. Louis Blues
9 Matt Rust* 5-10 (178) 195 (88) 3/23/89 L Bloomfield Hills, Mich. Univ. of Michigan (CCHA)/Florida Panthers
19 Jordan Schroeder* 5-9 (175) 183 (83) 9/29/90 R Prior Lake, Minn. Univ. of Minnesota (WCHA)/2009 Draft Eligible
25 Eric Tangradi 6-3 (191) 214 (97) 2/10/89 L Philadelphia, Pa. Belleville Bulls (OHL)/Anaheim Ducks
21 James van Riemsdyk*+ 6-3 (191) 211 (95) 5/4/89 L Middletown, N.J. Univ. of New Hampshire (HEA)/Philadelphia Flyers
14 Mitch Wahl 6-0 (183) 190 (86) 1/22/90 R Seal Beach, Calif. Spokane Chiefs (WHL)/Calgary Flames
33 Colin Wilson* 6-1 (185) 213 (97) 10/20/89 L Greenwich, Conn. Boston University (HEA)/Nashville Predators

*Member of the 2008 U.S. National Junior Team
+Member of the 2007 U.S. National Junior Team

Projected Lines? Have a couple fixtures probably with last year's 1st line returning, and Wahl-Bowman. Don't know a thing about Tyler Johnson but he's on Spokane too. Also Cole-Ruth with Notre Dame. Pretty surprised to see O'Brien on the team.

let me start off by saying WOW!!!! This team confuses me, yet makes me smile with joy at the same time! Crazy, I know. First off finally some CHL American boys in there! :handclap: :handclap: :yo:

Secondly, man this squad is big!! Look out, I think the new Legion of Doom line (Hayes, Obrien, Tangradi) has just arrived. These kids are all punishing players. I am very proud of Jimmy Hayes right now. This kid was a projected top 5 pick his draft year, only to drop down a round and really make many of us look silly for "pimping" him, especially me. But here he is, and he does deserve to be here. He may never be the next JVR, but what he does bring will one day lead him to a NHL career. Good for you. :handclap:

I have seen frustrations with the selection process this year, and rightfully so again, but thankfully only in a few instances. There really is no way, shape, or form that John Carlson does not make this squad. Baffled is aptly put. I like Blake Kessel, BUT COME ON!! Are you serious? This is worse then Jack "MFer" Johnson, and Zach BogoCop getting snubbed their respective years.

Do not get me wrong this defense is scary good, but if you add Petrecki and Carlson, you go from very good to flat out dominating. I really do not see the logic in Kessel and Fairchild over Carlson and Petrecki. I love Ruth and Cole on this team, great picks. I hope USA does not regret snubbing the manchild Petrecki and arguably the best dman not in the NHL/AHL John Carlson.

This offense can definitely do some damage. I doubt any country could put a better top 6 out there then the US can this year. One player who I did feel got snubbed is Jeremy Morin. I still feel this team needs a snipper, and he would be the best. Its a shame he cant showcase his talents in his draft year, but he will be here next year. Just wish he would have been put with Bowman and Wahl on the second line. Colin Long deserved to be here too, but this is a great problem to have that many countries are envious of..leaving of talented players because you just have no room for them.

All in all I must say this team looks very good. This is a mature team, probably why Morin and Palmieri dont make it this year. There are headscratchers (Carlson/Petrecki), but this is USA Hockey, we don't do things the most sensible way sometimes. But there needs to be praise for finally stepping up and picking Wahl, Bowman, Tangradi, Johnson, O'brien, Unice, McCullum, etc. I look forward to seeing that lil' Johnson play, what a spark plug he will be.

I will be disapointed if this squad does worse then silver, way to talentedto not make the gold medal game. McCollum is the #1 man, but if he falters I have no worries about Unice, he is a great back up. Can't wait 3 more weeks!!

STHLM*

12-06-2008, 09:46 AM

let me start off by saying WOW!!!! This team confuses me, yet makes me smile with joy at the same time! Crazy, I know. First off finally some CHL American boys in there! :handclap: :handclap: :yo:

Secondly, man this squad is big!! Look out, I think the new Legion of Doom line (Hayes, Obrien, Tangradi) has just arrived. These kids are all punishing players. I am very proud of Jimmy Hayes right now. This kid was a projected top 5 pick his draft year, only to drop down a round and really make many of us look silly for "pimping" him, especially me. But here he is, and he does deserve to be here. He may never be the next JVR, but what he does bring will one day lead him to a NHL career. Good for you. :handclap:

I have seen frustrations with the selection process this year, and rightfully so again, but thankfully only in a few instances. There really is no way, shape, or form that John Carlson does not make this squad. Baffled is aptly put. I like Blake Kessel, BUT COME ON!! Are you serious? This is worse then Jack "MFer" Johnson, and Zach BogoCop getting snubbed their respective years.

Do not get me wrong this defense is scary good, but if you add Petrecki and Carlson, you go from very good to flat out dominating. I really do not see the logic in Kessel and Fairchild over Carlson and Petrecki. I love Ruth and Cole on this team, great picks. I hope USA does not regret snubbing the manchild Petrecki and arguably the best dman not in the NHL/AHL John Carlson.

This offense can definitely do some damage. I doubt any country could put a better top 6 out there then the US can this year. One player who I did feel got snubbed is Jeremy Morin. I still feel this team needs a snipper, and he would be the best. Its a shame he cant showcase his talents in his draft year, but he will be here next year. Just wish he would have been put with Bowman and Wahl on the second line. Colin Long deserved to be here too, but this is a great problem to have that many countries are envious of..leaving of talented players because you just have no room for them.

All in all I must say this team looks very good. This is a mature team, probably why Morin and Palmieri dont make it this year. There are headscratchers (Carlson/Petrecki), but this is USA Hockey, we don't do things the most sensible way sometimes. But there needs to be praise for finally stepping up and picking Wahl, Bowman, Tangradi, Johnson, O'brien, Unice, McCullum, etc. I look forward to seeing that lil' Johnson play, what a spark plug he will be.

I will be disapointed if this squad does worse then silver, way to talentedto not make the gold medal game. McCollum is the #1 man, but if he falters I have no worries about Unice, he is a great back up. Can't wait 3 more weeks!!

In WJC it are FOUR big nations which all can take the gold. US is good but also the other three top nations. I think it's BIG chances that US will miss the Gold medal game. Sweden is extremely talented and Russia will be strong as always. I don't like when homers EXPECT their countries to be better then the others.

The Exiled One

12-06-2008, 10:09 AM

All I can say is USA better win gold this year, because next year they'll be woefully inexperienced... no more than four returning WJC players.

Konk

12-06-2008, 11:13 AM

In WJC it are FOUR big nations which all can take the gold. US is good but also the other three top nations. I think it's BIG chances that US will miss the Gold medal game. Sweden is extremely talented and Russia will be strong as always. I don't like when homers EXPECT their countries to be better then the others.
Sweden is talented, but a lot of their key players are 18 and 17 years old. The US have mostly 19 year olds on their roster and no 17 year olds. They will be the oldest, most experienced group with the top line from last year's tournament back. That includes JVR (19), who was the leading scorer and arguably the top player from the entire tournament. Then you add in Wilson (19), Schroeder (18), Bowman (19), Wahl (18), Tangradi (19), Palushaj (19), Blum (19), McDonagh (19), Shattenkirk (19), and McCollum (19) most of their top players are all 19 years old. Not to mention, they've got a lot of size upfront and it will be difficult for most defenses to handle them.

Historically, this has been a tournament dominated by 19 year olds, so the U.S. should definitely be counted on as one of the heavy favorites. AmericanDream has every reason, along with all other American fans, to say that anything less than Gold or Silver would be a major dissapointment.

STHLM*

12-06-2008, 12:25 PM

Sweden is talented, but a lot of their key players are 18 and 17 years old. The US have mostly 19 year olds on their roster and no 17 year olds. They will be the oldest, most experienced group with the top line from last year's tournament back. That includes JVR (19), who was the leading scorer and arguably the top player from the entire tournament. Then you add in Wilson (19), Schroeder (18), Bowman (19), Wahl (18), Tangradi (19), Palushaj (19), Blum (19), McDonagh (19), Shattenkirk (19), and McCollum (19) most of their top players are all 19 years old. Not to mention, they've got a lot of size upfront and it will be difficult for most defenses to handle them.

Historically, this has been a tournament dominated by 19 year olds, so the U.S. should definitely be counted on as one of the heavy favorites. AmericanDream has every reason, along with all other American fans, to say that anything less than Gold or Silver would be a major dissapointment.

Actually I would say Team Sweden is more experienced than the US team. 19 of 21 players already play in SEL which are a SENIOR league. Can you say the same about the US Team? MSP already have 62 games played in SEL, Markström have 28 games just for example. If US is among the heavy favorites then Sweden also is. Anything else than Gold and Silver be a dissappoinment for Sweden too. Don't forget MSP, Hedman, Backlund and Andersson also took SILVER in WJC 2008. That was also a experience. USA wasn't even in the final last year. Canada hardly beat Sweden in overtime to take the Gold. Also Sweden has 11 players born 89 in the team. Team Sweden wants REVENGE, nothing else!

History don't mean nothing. This probably the best team since Forsbegs tíme 1993.

Redwingsfan

12-06-2008, 12:56 PM

FutureGM97

12-06-2008, 12:58 PM

This is a good US team for the WJC...probably the best in a few years. Sweden will certainly be tough as will Canada considering they might have some NHLers on the team.

Randall Graves*

12-06-2008, 02:36 PM

William H Bonney

12-06-2008, 04:11 PM

So you really think that US is superior Sweden and Russia? :shakehead

That's not what the statement was about. The poster said the US team should be disappointed with anything less than a silver, which is a completely valid statement, just as it would be for Canada, Russia or Sweden. That doesn't mean he thinks the US is head and shoulders better than anyone other team.

Every year Team Canada goes into this tournament expecting nothing less but being in the Gold Medal game, even in the down years they've had in this tournament, albeit not recently. They're called expectations and if you don't have them, you shouldn't bother competing.

William H Bonney

12-06-2008, 04:28 PM

The thing is even I think Sweden has a excellent team they will compete together with three other great teams. That make me to not take anything for given. Sweden can take the Gold but I wouldn't be surprised if we only place as 4th.

Then what are you complaining about? He didn't guarantee anything. He said he would be disappointed if the team didn't make the Gold Medal game. It's been like that for Team USA the last few years, and this might be their best squad out of all of them, so why would that change? Of course anything could happen, hence why the tournament is played, but any of the "big four's" expectations should be nothing less than the gold medal game.

Konk

12-06-2008, 04:43 PM

Actually I would say Team Sweden is more experienced than the US team. 19 of 21 players already play in SEL which are a SENIOR league. Can you say the same about the US Team? MSP already have 62 games played in SEL, Markström have 28 games just for example. If US is among the heavy favorites then Sweden also is. Anything else than Gold and Silver be a dissappoinment for Sweden too. Don't forget MSP, Hedman, Backlund and Andersson also took SILVER in WJC 2008. That was also a experience. USA wasn't even in the final last year. Canada hardly beat Sweden in overtime to take the Gold. Also Sweden has 11 players born 89 in the team. Team Sweden wants REVENGE, nothing else!

History don't mean nothing. This probably the best team since Forsbegs tíme 1993.
The US has more 19 year olds, they're an older team than the Swedes, with more returning players, but the Swedes are more experienced because they play in the SEL? Right.

I didn't say Sweden wasn't a favorite. However, to say that the US wasn't even in the final last year and try to use that to make them sound inferior to Sweden; did you happen to watch that US/CAN game? For the past two years, the only reason the US hasn't been in the final is Canada. You know, Canada, the same team that beat Sweden. Sweden losing to them in the finals was no different than the US losing to them before the finals. They both lost, so I don't know what you're trying to say here.

Ha ha! This will never happen. In WJC 2008 he won the award for best d-man. He don't seems to has been any worser since he's top ranked for the draft 2009.

Will JVR be exposed vs the tourney's best goalie, Markström??????? Well THAT should you Americans be worried for.
Wasn't Doughty the Top D at the '08 WJCs, not Hedman?

JVR has had no problems with Markstrom in past tournaments, I'm sure he'll be fine.

fashi13

12-06-2008, 04:51 PM

Nope.

Having seen both Carlson and Ruth play in their respective rookie camps, Ruth must have gotten a lot better. Carlson was dominant in the camp this year, better than Alzner, and Teddy struggled last year. It was only one camp, either way I'm happy for all the guys.

DousedInOil

12-06-2008, 04:58 PM

No Petrecki/Carlson is the biggest crock of **** I have ever witnessed in my entire life. The U.S. management consistently finds away to mess things up.

Is it a bad thing that I wanted both of those players where the Oilers drafted Plante and Eberle?

fashi13

12-06-2008, 05:05 PM

Is it a bad thing that I wanted both of those players where the Oilers drafted Plante and Eberle?

Caps could have had both, but traded the Petrecki pick to SJ. That still pisses me off, he's just what the D in Wash needs.

Garl

12-06-2008, 05:07 PM

JVR has had no problems with Markstrom in past tournaments, I'm sure he'll be fine.

Everybody had problems with Markstrom at Hlinka Tournament and at U18 WJC.

VanRimsdyk had no problems with him in the past though, because they have never played against eachother.

P.S. Playing in SEL gives swedish players a little advantage, but it's not the main factor. What's more important is the talent level of the squad. The fact they're in SEL or are PPG in Allsvenskan shows their talent level.

#11_THEBEST!

12-06-2008, 05:20 PM

My Predictions:

Sweden over Canada in Gold Medal
USA wins bronze over Russia

[Basically, exact opposite of last year]

Ofcourse, I'm hoping Canada wins, but our offense will be dreadful this year.

Systemfel

12-06-2008, 05:27 PM

Does anyone have an educated guess on a potential lineup for the U.S.?

go kim johnsson 514

12-06-2008, 06:19 PM

Well, I didn't say Sweden is better. But to say that is a dissapointment if US not make to Gold medal game is very arrogant. Because it's very big chances that US will not make to final. Or you will say that USA is superior Sweden? Sweden has a EXCELLENT team and surely can beat USA in a semi... and not forgot Russia who as always will be strong.

It will be a disappointment if the USA doesn't get there. Just because everyone thinks Sweden and Canada are better doesn't change that. Doesn't matter how good they are, the Americans expect to beat those teams and win the tournament.

Konk

12-06-2008, 06:31 PM

Everybody had problems with Markstrom at Hlinka Tournament and at U18 WJC.

VanRimsdyk had no problems with him in the past though, because they have never played against eachother.

P.S. Playing in SEL gives swedish players a little advantage, but it's not the main factor. What's more important is the talent level of the squad. The fact they're in SEL or are PPG in Allsvenskan shows their talent level.
My mistake on the tournaments, but I believe they faced each other in the Evaluation camp over the summer. I don't know if JVR's squad did actually face Markstrom, but I do know the US had no problems scoring goals against Sweden or Finland.

Markstrom may have done well at Hlinka/U18s, but the WJC is a different stage. Cory Schneider is one example of a goalie doing well at the U18s one year and struggling in his first WJC the next.

JVR was the leading scorer at last year's WJC, my point is, I doubt JVR will have a harder time against Markstrom than he had against the other top goalies last year.
Sweden beat Canada in the group stage. Sweden was Canada's real competition.
Well Markström is so MUCH better now! He's the SEL teams key player and and one of the best goalies.
In which tourney's have Markström and JVR meet before?
Can a junior get any better experience then to play with seniors?
Now who's the homer? Sweden didn't do any better against Canada than the U.S. has the past few years, yet they were their "real" competition? Right.

You Swedes love to point at SEL experience as being a sure-fire bonus factor that will help them, but the results will speak for themselves.

Randall Graves*

12-06-2008, 06:33 PM

Ha ha! This will never happen. In WJC 2008 he won the award for best d-man. He don't seems to has been any worser since he's top ranked for the draft 2009.

Will JVR be exposed vs the tourney's best goalie, Markström??????? Well THAT should you Americans be worried for.
Hedman doesn't hit anyone, as named by another poster the American Legion of doom of Hayes/O'Brien/Tangradi are going to wreak havoc, Hedman better keep his head up :)

STHLM*

12-06-2008, 06:58 PM

My guess would be because this is the USA WJC thread. It's probably the place for homers to discuss the squad and their expectations. When you slight the US, people will take offense (which is where the arguing against Sweden most likely comes from).

That said, I agree with you that there are four talented teams and that any of them could win. My expectations for the US team is to place, but I'd be disappointed if they don't reach the title game. Nothing against Sweden, Canada and Russia (whose fans most likely feel the same way), but this is a gold-medal contending team with a lot of talent.

First of all: I not slight US. Actually I think they have a really great team and of course a Gold medal contender. But to say the can't miss the final game because they are too talented? Are the other teams less talented then US or what? I don't think so. Anyone of these four teams can be in the final. That's my point.

For the second: The Russians argue against Sweden in Sweden's own thread. Why that? Have some people hard to see Sweden as a favorite?

Ry-Dogg

12-06-2008, 07:32 PM

My point is since Carlson wasn't named, they have the best D in the tournament if there are 7 better players. Easily. Maybe he can change his citizenship and play for Canada - which we would have definately made.

John Carlson would have been one the best Dman in the tourney and really opened some eyes. The kid's getting screwed out of a great opportunity.

That was his punishment for leaving his commitment and playing in the OHL. They are hit and miss with players playing in Canada, usually if they come to Canada it's fine, it's when they make a commitment to a USA program whether it be USHL, NCAA, or the DP and then abandon it, that is when they usually step in, Carlson would have been one of their top players.

GopherState

12-06-2008, 07:43 PM

That was his punishment for leaving his commitment and playing in the OHL. They are hit and miss with players playing in Canada, usually if they come to Canada it's fine, it's when they make a commitment to a USA program whether it be USHL, NCAA, or the DP and then abandon it, that is when they usually step in, Carlson would have been one of their top players.
If that's the case, then why are Unice (who completely ****ed over Bowling Green) and O'Brien (who played a season at Minnesota before leaving for the WHL) on the team?

avskid

12-07-2008, 12:00 AM

Konk

12-07-2008, 12:14 AM

I think it will be Canada beating the United States for Gold with Sweden winning bronze. No matter how good you think Canada is, they always seem to be better. When the game is on the line Canada is just a little more prepared than other countries. They always seem to get the best of what they've got whether they have all the best guys or if their best guys are in the NHL.
It's looked like that lately, but before these past four years, Canada use to find ways to blow it at the WJCs, even more so than the US of late. So if you've got a short memory span, it hasn't always been a guarantee for Canada. They're also missing more key players this year than they ever have before.

There are four great teams this year with even chances to win it, it's going to be a fun tournament to watch.

Garl

12-07-2008, 02:08 AM

Hedman doesn't hit anyone, as named by another poster the American Legion of doom of Hayes/O'Brien/Tangradi are going to wreak havoc, Hedman better keep his head up :)

Yeah, Stamkos can confirm this. Good flight he had at last WJC.

Garl

12-07-2008, 02:23 AM

My mistake on the tournaments, but I believe they faced each other in the Evaluation camp over the summer. I don't know if JVR's squad did actually face Markstrom, but I do know the US had no problems scoring goals against Sweden or Finland.

Markstrom may have done well at Hlinka/U18s, but the WJC is a different stage. Cory Schneider is one example of a goalie doing well at the U18s one year and struggling in his first WJC the next.

JVR was the leading scorer at last year's WJC, my point is, I doubt JVR will have a harder time against Markstrom than he had against the other top goalies last year.

Now who's the homer? Sweden didn't do any better against Canada than the U.S. has the past few years, yet they were their "real" competition? Right.

You Swedes love to point at SEL experience as being a sure-fire bonus factor that will help them, but the results will speak for themselves.

Which results? We never had a "SEL" team at WJC.
Do you know how many SEL players there were in 2008? Five. 2 of them were goalies.

In 2007? 9 I believe but most of them were 4th liners who played 5-6 minutes per game. Only plasyers with big roles were Omark, Hornqvist, Gistedt, Junland and Backstrom of course.

As for Markstrom, I'm sure he'll be fine. He was good last year, and now he has only stepped up. He's best junior goalie in Sweden since....... well, since I remember.

AmericanDream

12-07-2008, 03:36 AM

Actually I would say Team Sweden is more experienced than the US team. 19 of 21 players already play in SEL which are a SENIOR league. Can you say the same about the US Team? MSP already have 62 games played in SEL, Markström have 28 games just for example. If US is among the heavy favorites then Sweden also is. Anything else than Gold and Silver be a dissappoinment for Sweden too. Don't forget MSP, Hedman, Backlund and Andersson also took SILVER in WJC 2008. That was also a experience. USA wasn't even in the final last year. Canada hardly beat Sweden in overtime to take the Gold. Also Sweden has 11 players born 89 in the team. Team Sweden wants REVENGE, nothing else!

History don't mean nothing. This probably the best team since Forsbegs tíme 1993.

I never said the US WILL win gold. :huh: I said I would be disapointed with anything but gold or silver. I must have missed how you Swedes take that as an insult. I am always proud of these American kids, and will always support them, but like another poster said, this could be our most talented and mature squad since we took the gold. Its not like I am overhyping a terrible down year squad.

I really cant wait for this tourney, after reading many of you Swedes ignorant posts, this should be fun to watch. I know Sweden will have a strong team, and Canada is well Canada, but there certainly is room for a very talented US team to step up and win gold or silver.

You cant blast me for being a homer, then say that Sweden was Canada's real competition last year. That is silly, stupid, and homerism. Good luck to all, watch out for the American Legion of Doom Line!!! atleast I hope they put all 3 together.

drew1234

12-07-2008, 10:10 AM

I never said the US WILL win gold. :huh: I said I would be disapointed with anything but gold or silver. I must have missed how you Swedes take that as an insult. I am always proud of these American kids, and will always support them, but like another poster said, this could be our most talented and mature squad since we took the gold. Its not like I am overhyping a terrible down year squad.

I really cant wait for this tourney, after reading many of you Swedes ignorant posts, this should be fun to watch. I know Sweden will have a strong team, and Canada is well Canada, but there certainly is room for a very talented US team to step up and win gold or silver.

You cant blast me for being a homer, then say that Sweden was Canada's real competition last year. That is silly, stupid, and homerism. Good luck to all, watch out for the American Legion of Doom Line!!! atleast I hope they put all 3 together.

AmericanDream I would be very happy with your roster this year. with all 89's you have the most experienced players and usually the tournament is best played by the 19 year olds which USA has chosen. Only Schroeder is the exception but he was one of the best players last year so this year it will be scary how good he will do with JVR and Wilson. Im scared for Canada. I wouldnt be surprised if USA won gold. Personally, they would be my prediction. I think Sweden will be hard pressed to get into the Gold Medal game. I dont think they are good enough this year. I may be wrong but whos leading their offense? Not JVR/Wilson/Schroeder who has past success at the WJC. I'd take all of those over Backlund anyday.

pouskin74

12-07-2008, 11:22 AM

AmericanDream I would be very happy with your roster this year. with all 89's you have the most experienced players and usually the tournament is best played by the 19 year olds which USA has chosen. Only Schroeder is the exception but he was one of the best players last year so this year it will be scary how good he will do with JVR and Wilson. Im scared for Canada. I wouldnt be surprised if USA won gold. Personally, they would be my prediction. I think Sweden will be hard pressed to get into the Gold Medal game. I dont think they are good enough this year. I may be wrong but whos leading their offense? Not JVR/Wilson/Schroeder who has past success at the WJC. I'd take all of those over Backlund anyday.

Usa is first contender for a gold in my book list too. even before canada and russia. swedens are good too this year.

i love staal

12-07-2008, 12:59 PM

I agree, Kessel over Carlson is a shock. Kessel is having a good year with UNH, but Carlson is already one of the best defensemen in the OHL. This is worse than leaving Bogosian off last year, at least with Bogosian you could say he was 17 years old and too inexperienced.

I'm not surprised they didn't take Long, he's strikes me as a dominant junior player that doesn't have any particular skill or talent that stands out. Similar to Trevor Lewis, I don't think he'd have an impact at the WJC level and I'm glad they left him off. It seems like they went with a team of hard nosed players who work hard every shift and I'm not sure Long fits that mold. Admittedly, I've seen very little of him.

McRae is doing very good this year, great on draws, staying on his feet and using his size more, he's really come around. I really would've liked to see him there, but they're going for experience, grit, and cohesion. Plus O'Brien and Hayes can bring a lot of what McRae would offer.

Kristo, USA loves him... I can't figure out why. All motor, no brains. The kid is fast, yeah, it's obvious. He's just not particularly skilled or smart. He'll probably play a similar role as Bill Sweatt a few years back.

Love the additions of Johnson and particularly Ruth. Although there are more talented prospects with higher upside, Ruth is an animal on defense. Great character kid and very solid defensively, he and Cole can shut down the opposition.

Aside from Carlson, the other big omission for me is Nick Petrecki. You won't find a meaner kid in any league in the world, he's tough as nails and built like a brick **** house. He would really come in handy on the smaller ice surface against the Canadians.

I have not read all 6 pages of this thread, but this post seems to me to be the most accurate about some of the questionable additions to the WJC team. How can they pick Kristo when he is not even in college yet?? Carlson and Petrecki are far superior, and no one can deny this, than eitehr fairchild or kessel. Both are big boys who would have been able to handle the physicality of the Canadiens.

Someone said that Mcrae over Rust? No way, Rust is a 89 with experience who one day will be a great role player in the NHL and his skills are extremely useful right now. He adds leadership as well.

Other than the two obvious defensive ommissions, I really like this team and teh Canadiens are not as strong as usual, even though they will always be good. Look for this team to defintely challegne and anything short of at least a medal will be dissapointing.

james bond

12-07-2008, 07:37 PM

Random thoughts..
I see that USAH is looking at a familiarity theme for this years edition.
JVR Wilson Schroeder: no brainer.
Rust: Good face off man, two way player, PK.
Palushaj: Proven scorer.
Bowman: Has struggled for stretches in the past two seasons. Has been ordinary at time s this year against average teams. Hopefully brings his A game to this tournament. A natural LW with a big shot.
Wahl: Plays with Bowman. Niether are leading their league in scoring. Both should probably have better totals playing often against teams like Portland.
Johnson: Good face off guy. PK. Surprising pick.
Hayes: Awesome potential but seemingly a risky pick.
Tangradi:Captain of his team. Natural LW. Physical. Nice pick. Would of been nice to see him on a line with Nick Palmeiri.
Hoeffel: Big, speedy. Hopefully tDon has been teaching him a good two way game.
Kristo: A bit surprising. Very speedy. PK. May be a bit overwelmed. Not even dominating in his own league.
OBrien:A guy who can play FWD or D. Not even really having a good year though.
* I find the dub picks interesting as Ron Rolston has the eyes and ears of Everett Silvertips coach Jay Varady. I would think that he had some influence as he sees these players on a regular basis.
*Shocked not to see Colin Long on the team. Maybe this is a statement to be made by USAH to Bruce Hamilton (Kelowna Rockets) about sniping at Luke Moffat and Shane McColgan ala the Hunters in London (Jared Knight, no John Carlson)

james bond

12-07-2008, 07:52 PM

The D,
McDonagh: Good solid physical two way guy but isnt he aready playing second fiddle to the Canadian guy (Brendan ?) at Wisconsin.
Blum: Really good offensive D man who continues to steadily improve. Lets not forget that he still needs to add strength and plays on a team wherein the system is the star.
Cole:Good puck moving two way D man.
Ruth: These two should have some chemistry together.
Fairchild: Here is a guy who is a bit smaller who regularly plays on a bigger ice sheet. May get bumped off the puck. I guess they are hoping that he makes an instant adaptation.
Kessel:No problem with this pick as he is a very steady Dman with some wheels.
Shattenkirk: A real favorite of Coach Rolston.Good Dman though.
*The team is deep on D, no doubt. But how could you not pick Petrecki or to a lesser extent Carlson. I would think Canada is breathing a sigh of relief with their FWDs not having to compete with a guy like Petrecki.
*Some of the guys are of concern as they may be subject to a heavy forecheck or cycle.
*It doesnt matter how the match ups will be against teams like Khazacstan. The team should of been designed to beat Canada. If you want to win gold , you will probably have to beat Canada.

chaosrevolver

12-07-2008, 07:57 PM

The D,
McDonagh: Good solid physical two way guy but isnt he aready playing second fiddle to the Canadian guy (Brendan ?) at Wisconsin.
Smith has more points, but isn't he terrible defensively?

james bond

12-07-2008, 08:01 PM

Goal,
McCollum: Obviously.
Unice: Are you kidding me? This guy (some say) was the achilles heel of his team at the Memorial Cup as he let in numerous soft and untimely goals. This year he is in probably the bottom half of O goalies. I think they played Guelph today and he got lit up and may even of been pulled. Has like an .892 save %
*Time to take a trip to Fargo. Mike Lee should of been the guy. This guy has been seeing alot of rubber and aquitting himself quite well. And USAH ponders why players go the CHL rather than staying to play in the USHL-College route.
* The team I would of like to have seen would of looked different but oh well.

Redwingsfan

12-07-2008, 08:04 PM

Smith has more points, but isn't he terrible defensively?

Detroits assistant GM, Jim Nill said he (Smith) reminds him of Duncan Keith, so I guess not..

james bond

12-07-2008, 08:04 PM

Smith has more points, but isn't he terrible defensively?

Good point but Eaves gives him alot of ice time and usually starts him if not mistaken. Correct me if I am wrong as I do not get to see Badger games.

danishh

12-07-2008, 08:49 PM

Random thoughts..
OBrien:A guy who can play FWD or D. Not even really having a good year though.

obrien is a full time center now. His stats: 28gp, 10g, 17a, 27pts
not bad stats in the whl, but it puts him just outside the top 50 scorers there.

Obrien isnt on the team just for his offensive skills though. He kills penalties, plays very physical, and is very responsible defensively. I cant think of a more perfect 3rd line center for the americans.

james bond

12-07-2008, 09:12 PM

obrien is a full time center now. His stats: 28gp, 10g, 17a, 27pts
not bad stats in the whl, but it puts him just outside the top 50 scorers there.

Obrien isnt on the team just for his offensive skills though. He kills penalties, plays very physical, and is very responsible defensively. I cant think of a more perfect 3rd line center for the americans.

You are on the money there. He is a +7 which is tops on his team.

puck swami

12-08-2008, 02:00 PM

For those wondering about Kristo, Team USA has a long history of taking at least one player (usually a forward) as a 17 year old, even if they know he won't play a lot - it's a 19 year old's tournament. The theory behind it is that that 17 year old is likely to be a three year WJC player, and that tounrey experience is really valuable in the second and third tournaments, when the 17 year old becomes a team leader.

SPORTSMANIAC

12-08-2008, 02:39 PM

wendelclark17

12-08-2008, 04:03 PM

is this official? is there a link?

orangeandblack

12-08-2008, 04:45 PM

Rabid Ranger

12-08-2008, 04:56 PM

Honestly, I can't find too much fault with the U.S. brass' decision making this go around. Carlson's a bit of a head-scratcher, but IMO, his exclusion isn't going to make or break the team. Kristo as the so-called 13th forward also leaves me non-plussed. Again, he's not going to make much of a differance either way. The goaltending is spot on-especially when it comes to naming two guys that are trending in the right direction RIGHT now. The defense has the right mix, and the forward group has been named with a purpose. This is going to be a very hard team to play against, especally off the cycle.

james bond

12-08-2008, 05:33 PM

Frenzy1

12-08-2008, 05:38 PM

The D,
Fairchild: Here is a guy who is a bit smaller who regularly plays on a bigger ice sheet. May get bumped off the puck. I guess they are hoping that he makes an instant adaptation.

As much as people have questioned his inclusion on the team, he was one the better Dmen on the team last year. He has the experience and is an excellent puck mover who plays the point very well.

orangeandblack

12-09-2008, 10:50 AM

I guess you dont share my opinion with my previous post on the goaltending selection. What is it that you see in Josh Unice as a spot on pick?

McCollum is a no brainer.

Unice, although hasnt been as good as McCollum, still has international experience, and Memorial Cup experience, and has been better then Smith this year.

Smith has been awful, played his way off the team.

Lee is playing in the USHL. Great prospect, but hes a young 90, Unice is older, more experienced. Lee should be on the team next year.

Maxwell is too young to, but a great prospect. Probably will be the other goalie with Lee next year.

Who else would you have picked besides McCollum? Unice seems like the right pick for me. McCollum is the starter anyway.

james bond

12-09-2008, 02:50 PM

orangeandblack

12-09-2008, 03:29 PM

Traditionally, there has been one 19 yo and one 18yo goaltender.
As for Unice, his best days may be behind him although it is quite early.
Unice lines up like this: 24 out of 29 goalies on his .500 O team,3.61 GAA, .887 sv % and a record of 4 wins and 9 losses. His counterpart on the team has faired much better.

It would appear to me that Mike Lee's quality of performances are superior as well. Last time I checked he played in a tournament in Canada, thats international.

Ok, the World Jr A. Its a nice tournament, but its not close to the WJC, and it isnt major junior or NCAA.

Look, I think Mike Lee is going to be on the team next year. I think hes a great prospect. Goalie is the toughest position to play if your either young or experienced in a tournament with some of the best 19 and 18 year olds in the world. Bringing a forward from the USHL or NAHL is one thing, but a goalie would be something I would really question. I think its pretty fair to say that Lee and Brandon Maxwell will be the goalies next year.

Rabid Ranger

12-09-2008, 03:39 PM

Traditionally, there has been one 19 yo and one 18yo goaltender.
As for Unice, his best days may be behind him although it is quite early.
Unice lines up like this: 24 out of 29 goalies on his .500 O team,3.61 GAA, .887 sv % and a record of 4 wins and 9 losses. His counterpart on the team has faired much better.

It would appear to me that Mike Lee's quality of performances are superior as well. Last time I checked he played in a tournament in Canada, thats international.

The numbers as a whole don't tell the whole story. Unice has played much better of late (very well actually) and has international experience. Frankly, if Unice gets any significant playing time the U.S. is probably not going to fare that well, so I think we're beating a non-existent horse here.

james bond

12-10-2008, 12:55 PM

Here is looking at a proposed lineup..

JVR L Wilson L Schroeder R
Bowman L Wahl R Palushaj R
Tangradi L OBrien R Hayes R
Hoeffel L Rust L Kristo R
Johnson L

McDonagh L Blum R
Cole L Ruth R
Fairchild L Kessel R
Shattenkirk R

McCollum
Unice

Rabid Husky

12-11-2008, 03:25 AM

Ok, the World Jr A. Its a nice tournament, but its not close to the WJC, and it isnt major junior or NCAA.

Look, I think Mike Lee is going to be on the team next year. I think hes a great prospect. Goalie is the toughest position to play if your either young or experienced in a tournament with some of the best 19 and 18 year olds in the world. Bringing a forward from the USHL or NAHL is one thing, but a goalie would be something I would really question. I think its pretty fair to say that Lee and Brandon Maxwell will be the goalies next year.

Lee will likely still be in the USHL next year as St. Cloud won't bring him in unless Weslosky or Dunn leaves early which doesn't seem likely. I love the kid and can't wait to see him in Cardinal and Black but I wonder if they will take a goalie from the USHL.

Rabid Ranger

12-11-2008, 09:49 AM

Lee will likely still be in the USHL next year as St. Cloud won't bring him in unless Weslosky or Dunn leaves early which doesn't seem likely. I love the kid and can't wait to see him in Cardinal and Black but I wonder if they will take a goalie from the USHL.

The U.S. is going to feature an almost complete overhaul next year, so if Lee is the best option, my guess is he'll be selected-even if he's still in the USHL (which isn't the knock it used to be). As has been mentioned, he and Brandon Maxwell are the future of U.S. goaltending, at least from a WJC perspective.

uw15

12-11-2008, 04:41 PM

Good point but Eaves gives him alot of ice time and usually starts him if not mistaken. Correct me if I am wrong as I do not get to see Badger games.

Starting doesn't mean much, Smith and McBain have been starting most of the time lately for Wisconsin. But their top 4 defenseman (Golubeff) all play about the same minutes. McDonaugh would be my choice for the best in the defensive zone and is the most steady overall. Offensively Smith and McBain are better with the puck and shooting. Brendan Smith has a deadly one timer on the 1st power play unit. McDonaugh gets some ice time on the 2nd power play unit. McDonaugh is on the top penality kill unit. Last year Smith was terrible in the defensive zone and he lost all confidence after some horrific turnovers. He has improved greatly in that regard but is far from a great defensive player yet.

james bond

12-13-2008, 06:57 PM

Well, it seems Josh Unice was unable to finish 2 of his past 3 games. In that time he has a GAA of about 4.5.

Rabid Ranger

12-13-2008, 11:14 PM

Well, it seems Josh Unice was unable to finish 2 of his past 3 games. In that time he has a GAA of about 4.5.

And McCollum just had a shut out.....

chaosrevolver

12-13-2008, 11:20 PM

And McCollum just had a shut out.....He had one last night against a terrible team and only faced 22 shots...

He gave up 5 goals on 35 shots tonight..

Not trying to knock him..just saying.

Harry Kakalovitch

12-14-2008, 02:05 PM

Konk

12-14-2008, 02:39 PM

I just wanted to comment on the Blake Kessel selection. Many people seem to be questioning his selection over John Carlson, and I know this is not the consensus opinion, but I just wanted to mention that Kessel won Defenseman of the Year last year in the USHL, over John Carlson. Also Kessel was a First Team All-Star, while Carlson was on the second team, also behind Matt Bartkowski. So obviously last year Kessel (anyway in the eyes of the USHL), was the better defenseman. Plus he's a year older, which is always important in the WJC. Just my two cents. I think both will be good players.
That would be a very valid point, if this was last year. With players as young as Kessel and Carlson, things change quickly in a matter of months. Carlson's development has been rapid so far in the OHL, whereas Kessel's has been slower in the NCAA.

That said, it's hard to judge, but Carlson seems to have better skills and more room to grow. I haven't seen enough of him at the OHL level, College hockey watchers (like myself) are mainly going off of USHL play and OHL reports at this point when it comes to Carlson.