World Junior Predictions Anyone? [Archive]

spennygg18

12-15-2008, 10:26 PM

everyone knows how this is going down...
The gold medal game will be Sweden vs Canada
it will be 2-0 for Sweden going into the third.
Cody Hodgson will muscle a goal in to make it 2-1 firing up his team
will 15 sec left Espisito will pass it to Hodgson for a one-timer tieing the game at 2-2. All of Ottawa slowly chants 1 more, 1 more, 1 more as Hodgson lines up at the face off dot knowing his job isn't done. In OT Tavares will get a penalty (Ottawa goes ohh nooo Tavarezz). Hodgson is out on the PK when Victor Hedman loading up back for a powerful slapshot when Hodgson pokes the puck past him and down the ice. on the ensuing breakaway the crowd will not make a noise, neither will the broadcasters. You will be able to hear Hodgson's skates crackling down the ice. Hodgson will then move in and go forehand backhand back to the forehand and in and slide it in. then Hodgson will skate down the ice on one knee punching the ice and yanking on the team Canada crest
(Ottawa crowd erupts) "YAY HODGSON why didnt we draft him!?!?!"

Abars

12-15-2008, 10:36 PM

Backlund lights it up for Sweden and leads the tourny in points.

EllisToLeafsNation

12-15-2008, 10:46 PM

Gold: Canada
Silver: Sweden
Bronze: USA

Canada always finds ways to muscle out wins in this tourney being in the nation's capital certainly won't hurt.

serratedmuffin

12-15-2008, 10:50 PM

Sweden will score the most goals, USA will disappoint, (and by that I mean I dont think they win gold) and Canada will struggle to score outside of Tavares and the PP. They will also allow the fewest goals.

Some predictions I figure will happen.

CraigC

12-15-2008, 10:51 PM

The Americans will take gold unless the goaltending implodes. Great forwards, great d core this is our best chance in a few years.

It might be their best team ever? I think so.

Prototype

12-15-2008, 10:56 PM

It might be their best team ever? I think so.

Nah i don't think so i believe it was the year after they won gold againest canada (STUPID MARC ANDRE FLEURY) that they where odds on favourite to go in and smoke everyone now that team was stacked

CraigC

12-15-2008, 11:14 PM

They were real good in 2004, but still I think this team is just as good or better than that team.

Lessy

12-15-2008, 11:17 PM

Just a curious question. I'm a Canadian and a pretty big fan of this tournament and I'm going this year in Ottawa. I look at each team on paper and I see the American's as an absolute powerhouse this winter. On paper they have to be considered the team to beat. They have the best player in the tournament and the best offense in the tournament. Defensively they're solid and goaltending is always a crapshoot in this pressure-cooker.

My question pertains to Sweden. Why are they so highly touted? I don't follow the European leagues whatsoever but you can usually tell the best players by draft position. Backlund will be a standout no question again this year and they have the goaltending and Hedman but after that what exactly makes them so special? Guys like Svensson-Paajarvi I don't really see how they can dominate this tournament. Canada for example cut about 4 guys that are comparable to him.

Again, I'll be the first to admit I don't watch European leagues or follow them closely so it's more of a question than a blatant comment. What makes Sweden so special? Last years team to me looks much more daunting than this year's edition.

As a Canadian fan who views the American's as the biggest threat to the drive-for-five I'm happy we're in their group for a few reasons.

1. Both teams will see how they stack up on New Year's Eve.
2. Barring an absolute implosion from one of them, they won't be playing each other in the semi-final which is nice for both teams. This also sets up a potential Canada-USA gold medal.

Looking at this tournament before it even begins I think there's a nice consensus as to who the top 3 teams are. In no particular order it's Canada, Sweden, USA.

It would be a shocker if Sweden didn't win their group and advance to the semis judging by most opinions on here of that Swedish team. It's a given that the winner of the other group will be the victor on New Years Eve.

The one conclusion that you can draw from that is the winner on New Year's Eve has a massive advantage going forward into the medal round.

1. They've proven they can beat a top caliber team and quite possibly the next best team in the tournament.

2. They get a direct bye to the semifinal where in all likelihood they will not be facing one of the other two powerhouses (easier route than Sweden).

3. They get the rest associated with not playing in the quarter final.

4. They're going to face a tired, inferior team at the crossover.

Thus, my pick for the tournament champion is the winner on New Year's Eve.

Moreso than any other hockey tournament, the WJC and it's schedule is easy to analyze prior to competition. Obviously any team can win on any given day but the balance in competition is not so great at this level. Obviously there are examples of implosions and massive upsets (Switzerland tying the Americans in Vancouver was a massive one as was Kazakhstan beating the Americans I believe not so long ago as well) but it's highly unlikely that there will be any upsets of that magnitude on any given day.

danishh

12-15-2008, 11:29 PM

Canada over USA for gold
Sweden over Russia for bronze

(cue "that guy" bashing me for not picking sweden)

eightyseven

12-15-2008, 11:57 PM

I know USA hasn't had a lot of success in the past but it really seems USA hockey is finally giving CHL guys a chance (and not just a few). I mean they took the whole checking line out of the Spokane Chiefs. And I believe they have a new coach/coaching staff, and one of the assistants is from the WHL.

I'm Canadian so of course I'm hoping that Canada will win gold but they have it in extremely tough.

Gold: USA
Silver: Sweden
Bronze: Canada

OR

Gold: USA
Silver: Canada
Bronze: Sweden

P.S. I don't think Pickard nor Torkarski have that game-breaking ability. Torkarski is a smaller guy too doesn't take up as much net.

eightyseven

12-16-2008, 12:01 AM

Gold: Canada
Silver: Sweden
Bronze: USA

Canada always finds ways to muscle out wins in this tourney being in the nation's capital certainly won't hurt.

Not with those small, scrawny fowards they won't. :sarcasm: :help:

Cardiac_Canes

12-16-2008, 12:17 AM

USA hockey is finally giving CHL guys a chance (and not just a few). I mean they took the whole checking line out of the Spokane Chiefs.

What on earth are you talking about? They did take 3 chiefs but Bowman and Wahl are anything but checking line players for Spokane. They're first liners. Do you even have any clue who they are?

P.S. I don't think Pickard nor Torkarski have that game-breaking ability. Torkarski is a smaller guy too doesn't take up as much net.

Tokarski has won at every level he's played at. Hell, he stood on his head against a stacked Kitchener team and won the Memorial Cup as well as MVP of the tournament. What more do you want him to do?

Lessy

12-16-2008, 12:50 AM

Tokarski has won at every level he's played at. Hell, he stood on his head against a stacked Kitchener team and won the Memorial Cup as well as MVP of the tournament. What more do you want him to do?

Goaltending in this tournament is always a complete crapshoot. There's no such thing as a sure thing as Marc-Andre Fleury proved to us in his second go-around. It's all about who's hot and who's not. I don't care if you're the reigning CHL MVP and first overall pick but if you're playing below your standards during these two weeks you won't be the best goalie in the tournament. That's why it's a nice insurance policy to have two quality goaltenders like Canada can always ice. Some guys don't have that ability to play under the pressure, especially with their first big-game experiences.

Chigurh

12-16-2008, 01:06 AM

Gold: Sweden
Silver: USA
Bronze: Canada
4th: Russia

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 01:32 AM

Rabid Ranger

12-16-2008, 02:05 AM

This can go either way. It's very hard to predict but here's what I think can happen:

Gold: Sweden

Silver: Canada

Bronze: USA or Russia

I think USA will disappoint and I'm not sure they will take medal at all. I think Russia is underated. I still don't see why USA is so highly touted.

Probably because you don't know much if any anything about any of the U.S. players. What's not to like? Great skill and size at forward, including the best line from last year's WJC's. A mobile and skilled defense, and a NHL first round selection in McCollum in goal who has had a very good year in the OHL. Not to mention a quality coach in Ron Rolston. This is a squad built to win this year.

ronnyweed

12-16-2008, 02:06 AM

I know USA hasn't had a lot of success in the past but it really seems USA hockey is finally giving CHL guys a chance (and not just a few). I mean they took the whole checking line out of the Spokane Chiefs. And I believe they have a new coach/coaching staff, and one of the assistants is from the WHL.

I'm Canadian so of course I'm hoping that Canada will win gold but they have it in extremely tough.
Gold: USA
Silver: Sweden
Bronze: Canada

OR

Gold: USA
Silver: Canada
Bronze: Sweden

P.S. I don't think Pickard nor Torkarski have that game-breaking ability. Torkarski is a smaller guy too doesn't take up as much net.

Canada has been the underdogs like the last 2 years, if you're actually canadian you would predict them winning this year aswell. some of the players canada cut would make the top 6 for most countries in this tourney.

Conando

12-16-2008, 02:12 AM

Gold: Canada
Silver: USA
Bronze: Sweden

Randall Graves*

12-16-2008, 02:41 AM

They were real good in 2004, but still I think this team is just as good or better than that team.
It depends, I want to see what style of game this team plays.

We have 3 lines capable of scoring, we have size and skill on the blueline and upfront.

Canada also has a strong team but I think our forwards may be a bit better.

davan

12-16-2008, 02:55 AM

Canada on home soil and playing on a small ice surface will win gold for sure. USA, Sweden and Russia will battle for the rest of the top spots.

e46265

12-16-2008, 02:56 AM

Here's my prediction
Gold: USA
Silver: Canada
Bronze: Russia
4:th: Sweden

CGY

12-16-2008, 03:07 AM

Gold: Canada
Silver: USA
Bronze: Sweden

eightyseven

12-16-2008, 03:11 AM

What on earth are you talking about? They did take 3 chiefs but Bowman and Wahl are anything but checking line players for Spokane. They're first liners. Do you even have any clue who they are?

In the Memorial Cup, Wahl, Bowman and Tyler Johnson were used as a checking line, going head to head with Matthias, etc because of their two-way play. Did you not watch the Memorial Cup!? Even the announcers stated that. I watched the whole tournament. ;) I'm pretty sure I read somewhere USA hockey wants them to be a checking line for this year too. Actually, not that I think of it, maybe it was just Wahl and Johnson, I forget.

Tokarski has won at every level he's played at. Hell, he stood on his head against a stacked Kitchener team and won the Memorial Cup as well as MVP of the tournament. What more do you want him to do?

First of all, Spokane Chiefs won because they had the better defence all-around with the likes of Cowen, etc and they had more two-way players up-front. (Bill Peters stresses this!)

Secondly, had Steve Mason not been injured and was able to play, he could have had the ability to steal games for them and WIN against the Spokane Chiefs. If Mason was in nets, I guarantee the final would have been a MUCH closer game and it is VERY POSSIBLE Kitchener would win the Memorial Cup.

I don't know if you notice but Josh Unice wasn't exactly amazing during the Memorial Cup. Heck, his numbers that whole last year on a GOOD Kitchener team were just vanilla. Look especially at his save %, despite the fact Kitchener had a pretty solid backend and didn't give up that many shots in general Not that I blame him, he's pretty small for a goalie. Now that his Kitchener team is much worse, his numbers have gotten worse.. Unice is not a legit #1 goaltender at this CHL level, let alone the NHL. So, what my point is: Tokarski (decent/good but I wouldn't consider amazing) >> Unice (meh) I.E. Tokarski outplayed Unice which I don't think was hard to do.

Tokarski, as a small goalie, doesn't really come out and challenge the shooter (like Nabokov does.) Fundamentally, he's not as sound. And according to Quinn, none of the 4 goalies stood out in camp. Not exactly a ringing endorsement. Which is why I'm worried about Pickard's play too since I don't think he's as good as he thinks he is (he comes across as very confident). Everyone says he's the next Price but I don't think so, Price's lateral mobility/agility are amazing.

I hope he proves me wrong, but let's just stay I still don't believe he is capable of stealing games by himself, only adequate enough when the team in front of him is good.

Heck, look at Sexsmith, I've seen MANY Vancouver Giants games, and I've seen him give up soft goals repeatedly but because his team in front of him is so good defensively, his numbers stastically are good. But we all know he is mediocre goalie. (But Tokarski is still better than Sexsmith for sure)

P.S. After winning the Memorial Cup, Tokarski still got drafted very late (round 5). So what does that say about his potential in terms of the scouts' eyes? He was MVP too. Meanwhile, Jake Allen was also MVP at the U-18's, won gold and moved all the way ahead up to the 2nd round. Both were guys who were barely on the radar. **Yes, I know draft status doesn't always mean anything but something to think about.

P.S.S. This post isn't to bash the goaltenders who were picked for the Canadian world junior squad. Anything can happen, either one could go on a sudden hot streak at any point in time. (See Craig Anderson in Florida, who has since fallen back to earth) All I am saying is that Canada will need the goaltender to be the best player if they want to win gold again because on paper, I don't think they're the favourite. (Or we have an extremely clutch player who can score when the game is on the line-Hodgson? maybe)

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 04:05 AM

Probably because you don't know much if any anything about any of the U.S. players. What's not to like? Great skill and size at forward, including the best line from last year's WJC's. A mobile and skilled defense, and a NHL first round selection in McCollum in goal who has had a very good year in the OHL. Not to mention a quality coach in Ron Rolston. This is a squad built to win this year.

I don't think the Goaltender and defence is good enough!

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 04:23 AM

2. They get a direct bye to the semifinal where in all likelihood they will not be facing one of the other two powerhouses (easier route than Sweden).

3. They get the rest associated with not playing in the quarter final.

4. They're going to face a tired, inferior team at the crossover.

2. Both Canada and USA will face Russia or Sweden in the semifinal. Easy? One of Canada and USA will not have a easier route than Sweden since that team MUST play in the QF. Only one team in each group go directly to semi.

3. Huhhhh???????? I thought the winner in each group will go to semi. Since USA and Canada is in the same group one of them must play the QF first. Then one of them will miss the rest that one of the Euros(Sweden?) will have.

4. Again one of the NA teams will be much tired than its Euro opponent in the Semi...

zecke26

12-16-2008, 05:40 AM

i predict that germany will manage to stay in WJC, winning at least 2 games. (at least i hope so. ;))

Macman

12-16-2008, 08:26 AM

1. U.S.
2. Canada
3. Sweden

If Canada manages to pull this off without eight NHLers it will be its greatest junior win. I just don't see it. The team is just too young and the forwards too small.

paperboy

12-16-2008, 08:27 AM

to Eightsevens' comments - I guess we will be just fine then as Pickard was first round draft pick (since u think thats a knock against Tokarski). Did you watch these 2 go head to head in the 7 game series last year - enough said. They made the right picks and Canada will be fine in net.

wjhl2009fan

12-16-2008, 08:33 AM

britdevil

12-16-2008, 08:41 AM

1. Sweden
2. USA
3. Canada

Redwingsfan

12-16-2008, 08:55 AM

I don't think the Goaltender and defence is good enough!

Please explain.. Have you seen McCollum play? And if so, whats so bad about him?

And the defence, please explain why they aren't good enough..

VOB

12-16-2008, 09:40 AM

I think USA will disappoint and I'm not sure they will take medal at all. I think Russia is underated. I still don't see why USA is so highly touted.

This is the best team the U.S. has iced in a very long time. I believe it will be between Sweden and the U.S. Canada, while having probably the best defensive grouping, is too small up front and may lack the fire power to compete with the big clubs (no disrespect to Taveres and Hodgson).

Cardiac_Canes

12-16-2008, 09:46 AM

In the Memorial Cup, Wahl, Bowman and Tyler Johnson were used as a checking line, going head to head with Matthias, etc because of their two-way play. Did you not watch the Memorial Cup!? Even the announcers stated that. I watched the whole tournament. ;) I'm pretty sure I read somewhere USA hockey wants them to be a checking line for this year too. Actually, not that I think of it, maybe it was just Wahl and Johnson, I forget.

Just because they played head to head against Kitchener's top line doesn't make them a checking line. Teams match their first lines against their opponents first lines all the time. Bowman and Wahl are not checking line players. They just played their best players against Kitchener's best. There's no way Team USA uses Bowman and Wahl in a checking role because both are offensive players.

DayWalk3r

12-16-2008, 09:47 AM

Canada over USA in the Finals.
Russia over Sweden in the Bronze medal game.

pouskin74

12-16-2008, 09:52 AM

cant say right now but i try to give my best.
1-Canada
2-USA
3-4 between Sweden and Russia but i am not suprised if everything gonna be up side down. cap between top 4 is very small. but we will be much more smarter after a couple of games.

johnny canuckistan

12-16-2008, 09:56 AM

USA - Gold
Canada - Silver:cry:
Sweden - Bronze?

It'll be a sad day in Ottawa, but Stephen Harper will be there in person to hold our hands and make us feel better about ourselves. :sarcasm:

House

12-16-2008, 09:59 AM

Gold: Switzerland

Silver: USA
Bronze: Sweden

dead last: Canada

Macman

12-16-2008, 10:07 AM

USA - Gold
Canada - Silver:cry:
Sweden - Bronze?

It'll be a sad day in Ottawa, but Stephen Harper will be there in person to hold our hands and make us feel better about ourselves. :sarcasm:

He could always prorogue the tournament if things start looking bad for Canada. :nod:

IAGTTAYM

12-16-2008, 10:08 AM

Canada, USA, Russia and Sweden, in that order. Sweden are overrated.

Macman

12-16-2008, 10:10 AM

Sweden are overrated.

Oh oh. Now you've done it. Tick tick tick ...

IAGTTAYM

12-16-2008, 10:11 AM

Oh oh. Now you've done it. Tick tick tick ...Ha, well I'm from Sweden so...

Macman

12-16-2008, 10:13 AM

Ha, well I'm from Sweden so...

Really? Why do you think they're overrated?

Iwishihadacup

12-16-2008, 10:17 AM

Gold Canada
Silver Sweden
Bronze USA

John Tavares Burns Victor Hedman to score on OT to give Canada his 5th in a row gold medal

Epic

IAGTTAYM

12-16-2008, 10:23 AM

Really? Why do you think they're overrated?Well, basically I don't think our "top" players is that good (Hedman Backlund, MSP etc).

Plus we kinda lack leadership, Berglund was great last year and I don't see who will be able to step it up this time around (Which will be needed when you play the WJC in Canada...).

johnny canuckistan

12-16-2008, 10:52 AM

He could always prorogue the tournament if things start looking bad for Canada. :nod:

Nice! :laugh:

danishh

12-16-2008, 11:05 AM

1 Preliminary LAT - RUS RUS (1-0) beats LAT (0-1)
2 Preliminary GER - USA USA (1-0) beats GER (0-1)
3 Preliminary FIN - SWE SWE (1-0) beats FIN (0-1)
4 Preliminary CAN - CZE CAN (1-0) beats CZE (0-1)
5 Preliminary SVK - LAT SVK (1-0) beats LAT (0-2)
6 Preliminary KAZ - GER GER (1-1) beats KAZ (0-1)
7 Preliminary RUS - FIN RUS (2-0) beats FIN (0-2)
8 Preliminary KAZ - CAN CAN (2-0) beats KAZ (0-2)
9 Preliminary SWE - SVK SWE (2-0) beats SVK (1-1)
10 Preliminary USA - CZE USA (2-0) beats CZE (0-2)
11 Preliminary LAT - SWE SWE (3-0) beats LAT (0-3)
12 Preliminary GER - CAN CAN (3-0) beats GER (1-2)
13 Preliminary RUS - SVK RUS (3-0) beats SVK (1-2)
14 Preliminary CZE - GER CZE (1-2) beats GER (1-3)
15 Preliminary FIN - LAT FIN (1-2) beats LAT (0-4)
16 Preliminary USA - KAZ USA (3-0) beats KAZ (0-3)
17 Preliminary SWE - RUS SWE (4-0) beats RUS (3-1)
18 Preliminary CZE - KAZ CZE (2-2) beats KAZ (0-4)
19 Preliminary SVK - FIN FIN (2-2) beats SVK (1-3)
20 Preliminary CAN - USA CAN (4-0) beats USA (3-1)
21 Quarter-Final #1 USA - FIN USA beats FIN
22 Relegation GER - LAT GER beats LAT
23 Quarter-Final #2 RUS - CZE RUS beats CZE
24 Semi-Final #1 CAN-RUS CAN beats RUS
25 Relegation KAZ - SVK SVK beats KAZ
26 Semi-Final #2 SWE-USA USA beats SWE
27 Relegation GER-SVK GER beats SVK
28 Relegation KAZ - LAT LAT beats KAZ
29 5th/5e Place CZE-FIN FIN beats CZE
30 Bronze SWE-RUS SWE beats RUS
31 Gold / Or CAN-USA CAN beats USA

CANADA over USA for GOLD
SWEDEN over RUSSIA for BRONZE
FINLAND over CZECH REP. for 5TH
GERMANY for 7TH, SLOVAKIA for 8TH
LAT and KAZ are RELEGATED

not sure if i did the crossover right though.

SHartnell19

12-16-2008, 11:28 AM

Gold: USA
Silver: Sweden
Bronze: Canada

redman

12-16-2008, 11:34 AM

JVR will break the scoring record!

USA will Gold

serratedmuffin

12-16-2008, 11:35 AM

JVR will break the scoring record!

USA will Gold

Didn't forsberg score 30+ points in 7 games? JVR is not going to break that record.

Lessy

12-16-2008, 11:36 AM

2. Both Canada and USA will face Russia or Sweden in the semifinal. Easy? One of Canada and USA will not have a easier route than Sweden since that team MUST play in the QF. Only one team in each group go directly to semi.

3. Huhhhh???????? I thought the winner in each group will go to semi. Since USA and Canada is in the same group one of them must play the QF first. Then one of them will miss the rest that one of the Euros(Sweden?) will have.

4. Again one of the NA teams will be much tired than its Euro opponent in the Semi...

Read my post again. I was talking about the winner on New Year's Eve (Canada vs. USA) and why they have the massive advantage in this tournament.

2. By all accounts on HFBoards, Sweden, Canada and the USA are the top 3 teams in this tournament. I think Russia could surprise personally but not to the point where they're gold medal contenders. I'll listen to the HFBoards community of junior fans before I listen to my own predictions of European teams in this tournament. So assuming Sweden and the New Years Even winner get the byes to the semi, the winner of that game on December 31 will bypass the other two powerhouse teams and will not face them again until the final.

3. Again, reread that post. I was talking about the winner of the New Year's Eve game, not both Canada and the USA as the loser of that game will have their work cut out for them and be forced to in all likelihood, beat the next two best teams in the tournament in succession to win gold.

4. And read it over again...

Lessy

12-16-2008, 11:41 AM

DayWalk3r

12-16-2008, 11:41 AM

Didn't forsberg score 30+ points in 7 games? JVR is not going to break that record.

Correct. 31 points in 7 games (1992-93)

4.42 Points / Game

I don't think that record ever will be broken.

nucksforthecup

12-16-2008, 11:45 AM

Gold: Canada
Silver: Sweden
Bronze: U.S.A

vippe

12-16-2008, 11:54 AM

Out of curiousity, what is the love affair with Sweden all about? I asked this in a previous post but no reply...

Looking at them on paper nothing really stands out to me that puts them at the level of a Canada or a USA.

Funny you would say that because I think this team is the best on paper. So I guess I could say the same about Canada and USA. But I wont :sarcasm:

Swedens D this year is stacked, GREAT goalie and the Forwards isnt too shabby either and now we got Möller aswell. I say we are right up there with both USA and Canada.

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 12:00 PM

Canada and the usa will feed off the energy in the arena.The crowds for the most part will be pro canada and pro usa.

A question: is this a positive thing? Maybe Canada has been successful at NA ice, but USA?

12 WJC:s have been played in NA(8 in Canada and 4 in USA). In these 12 tournaments USA only has a Bronze. Nothing more. They have four other medals but these were taken in Europe.

Let's me see: 12 NA tournaments+1 bronze=a crowd advantage for USA?

A another thing: 2004 USA won the gold in Finland. 2005 they missed medal in USA!

A explaination please! Because I can't see it.

Zine

12-16-2008, 12:03 PM

Sweden is stacked but really young. USA has talent and age. I'm not overly impressed with Canada's roster but they've home ice, are on a roll and the WJC means a lot to them. Russia will contend. Looks to be a really down year for Finland and Czechs.

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

Gump Hasek

12-16-2008, 12:08 PM

Gold - Canada
Silver - Russia
Bronze - Sweden

Impressionist

12-16-2008, 12:13 PM

Gold - Canada
Silver - United States
Bronze - Sweden

TCIH

12-16-2008, 12:46 PM

G: USA
S: Russia
B: Canada
4: Sweden

Just a hunch.

James Van Riemsdyk, Cody Hodgson, Colin Wilson
Victor Hedman, Vyacheslav Voinov
Chet Pickard

...as the all-star team.

Canuck71

12-16-2008, 12:50 PM

Canada takes home the gold beating the Americans. Sweden takes the bronze. It wont be easy but I think Canada can pull it off for the 5th year in a row.

wjhl2009fan

12-16-2008, 12:57 PM

A question: is this a positive thing? Maybe Canada has been successful at NA ice, but USA?

12 WJC:s have been played in NA(8 in Canada and 4 in USA). In these 12 tournaments USA only has a Bronze. Nothing more. They have four other medals but these were taken in Europe.

Let's me see: 12 NA tournaments+1 bronze=a crowd advantage for USA?

A another thing: 2004 USA won the gold in Finland. 2005 they missed medal in USA!

A explaination please! Because I can't see it.

The point is a team can feed of the energy of 21,000 fans.

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 12:58 PM

James Van Riemsdyk, Cody Hodgson, Colin Wilson
Victor Hedman, Vyacheslav Voinov
Chet Pickard

...as the all-star team.

In the All Star Team I predict Oscar Möller over Hogdson and of course Jacob Markström will be the goalie. :yo:

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 01:02 PM

The point is a team can feed of the energy of 21,000 fans.Some times it works for a team some time it does not.

But the point is: For USA it's worked only one time which give "only" a bronze. The rest 11 times it doesn't work at all. I still need a explaination on why you think this will be a advantage this year?

JBIZ14

12-16-2008, 01:07 PM

Gold: Canada
Silver: U.S.A
Bronze: Russia

Canuck71

12-16-2008, 01:10 PM

Polansky

12-16-2008, 01:27 PM

Gold: USA
Silver: Sweden
Bronze: Czech Republic

Please prove me wrong Canada :)

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 01:30 PM

Is there any specific reason why the Kings released Oscar Moller to play in this tournament? For confidence? He has been doing pretty well in the NHL and has put up respectable numbers for a rookie and is logging quite a bit of ice time. Hes going to be a very dominant player playing against younger competition.

I don't know why LA let him go to WJC and I don't care. The most important thing is that he will play for Sweden in WJC and he will DOMINATE!!!!!:yo: Sweden for GOLD!;)

Lutzinho

12-16-2008, 01:32 PM

Gold:Germany:laugh:

no,seriously....
Gold:Schweden
Silver:Canada
Bronze:USA

Nash

12-16-2008, 01:33 PM

Cardiac_Canes

12-16-2008, 01:54 PM

Gold: USA
Silver: Sweden
Bronze: Czech Republic

Please prove me wrong Canada :)

Czech's for a medal over Canada or Russia? I'm sorry but I just don't see it happening. The Czech program has been on the decline in recent years.

J17 Vs Proclamation

12-16-2008, 02:00 PM

Russia is really being overlooked. Considering how many times in the past 10 years Russia and Canada have competed for Gold, it would have to be a very sub par group for them not to be in medal contention.

USA was the favorite in Vancouver in 2006. They ended up losing to Finland in the Bronze medal game. That squad on paper is better than this version of Team USA (8 top 10 picks over 2 drafts). I hope this team has better chemistry than that version did. USA seems to get so much hype prior to the WJC, but over the years, the results haven't come close to the expectations.

Too much emphasis is being put on who is missing for Canada rather than who will be there. Tavares and Hodgson down the middle is a more impressive one two punch than Canada has had in the past 3 tournaments.

Canada just seems weak to me (by their own standards). I guess they are favourites, but they just aren't as scary as usual, and i would really not be suprised if they didn't take the gold. Their Goaltending is solid, but not as good as last year for example. They have Tavares and Hodgson as their offensive weapons, but behind them, for some reason it doesn't look as dangerous.

wjhl2009fan

12-16-2008, 02:10 PM

But the point is: For USA it's worked only one time which give "only" a bronze. The rest 11 times it doesn't work at all. I still need a explaination on why you think this will be a advantage this year?

I am not 100% it will be a advantage.I might have worded it wrong but if a team can use the energy in the arena it could be to there advantge.

CoHo

12-16-2008, 02:29 PM

Hodgson leads the tournament in scoring, and scores the OT winner in the gold medal game against the US. That would be something!

Roof Daddy

12-16-2008, 02:38 PM

Gold - CAN
Silver - SWE
Bronze - RUS

Jordan Eberle leads the tourney in goals, Tavares in points, both playing on the same line.

FrankMTL

12-16-2008, 02:41 PM

Last year was the exact same situation. Canada was being viewed as underdog because a lot of their big name players were not available. People complained that they didn't think this team would win as they did not see enough scoring Etc Etc.

Canada always gets scoring from unexpected players and they will continue to do so I think. Look at last years scorers..How many people actually thought that Shawn Matthias and Matt Halischuk would have the tournaments they did.

I see a lot of potential on this years squad with a boatload of offensive potential from the back end with Ellis, Subban and Hickey. You will see the way they move the puck on the powerplay.

Paxton Fettel

12-16-2008, 02:42 PM

Canada will win it. Hockey at junior level is not interesting anymore ...

Bennysflyers16

12-16-2008, 02:42 PM

Gold - USA
Silver - Canada:cry::cry:
Bronze - Sweden

JVR wins the scoring race by at least 3 points !

John Druce

12-16-2008, 02:54 PM

Gold: USA

Colin Wilson leads tournament in goals. JVR in points.

Silver: Canada

Top Defenseman to Hickey. Jamie Benn a Media All-Star

Bronze: Sweden

Hedman a Media All-Star.

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 03:02 PM

Any explain for all this love for USA? :huh:

Möller will be topscorer and make most points... :nod:

Redwingsfan

12-16-2008, 03:05 PM

Any explain for all this love for USA? :huh:

Möller will be topscorer and make most points... :nod:

Because they have a great team, thats why..

FutureGM97

12-16-2008, 03:07 PM

I think this is Canada's toughest year yet in terms of competition. However, they are on a roll in these games so they do have a bit of an advantage. Not to mention the fact that they have home ice advantage which is huge. Maybe they don't have the HUGE names on their team but they know how to get it done. No reason to pick against them.

Silver and Bronze will be interesting between the US, Sweden, and Russia.

zecke26

12-16-2008, 03:09 PM

Because they have a great team, thats why..

US flag? hmm...rwf is now a US homer! no doubt about it! :D

DeadPhish5858

12-16-2008, 03:11 PM

USA wins it all. Canada doesnt even place.

USA!! USA!! USA!!

Redwingsfan

12-16-2008, 03:16 PM

US flag? hmm...rwf is now a US homer! no doubt about it! :D

You can blame Dean for that.. He started it:laugh:

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 03:18 PM

Because they have a great team, thats why..

I can't see USA team is any better than Sweden...Sweden has excellent goaltending, great defence and a very good offence(Backlund/Möller/Josefsson will dominate and MSP will be great too). I'm still not sure about USA goaltending and defence. It seems all people takling about US forwards but it isn't the whole team, right?

But I will not discuss this anymore. We will see what the results will tell in January. But this tournament will be very exciting, I'm sure.

Good luck to all participating teams, even Kazakhstan and Latvia...;)

J17 Vs Proclamation

12-16-2008, 03:20 PM

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 03:21 PM

USA wins it all. Canada doesnt even place.

USA!! USA!! USA!!

Is this a joke or what? Yes USA can win the gold, but Canada even not to place in their home tourney????:huh:

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 03:25 PM

Are you Swedish? Sorry for my ignorance, but sometimes people just put the wrong flag there sometimes.

Yes I'm a Swede. Don't worry, I must say I find it annoying when people use other flags than their own. Escpecially when they attack the country which flag they use.

worstfaceoffmanever

12-16-2008, 03:26 PM

Group A:
1. Canada
2. United States
3. Czech Republic
4. Germany
5. Kazakhstan

Group B:
1. Sweden
2. Russia
3. Finland
4. Slovakia
5. Latvia

Medal Round:
Canada over Russia
Sweden over United States
Bronze Game: United States over Russia
Gold Game: Sweden over Canada

Relegation Round Results:
1. Slovakia
2. Germany
3. Kazakhstan (Relegated)
4. Latvia (Relegated)

This is also going to be the best WJC for goaltenders for a LONG time.

Canada- Pickard
Finland- Sateri
Sweden- Markström
Russia- Alistratov
United States- McCollum
Germany- Pielmeier
Czech Republic- Furch
Kazakhstan- Yankov (I had to, I'm sorry xD)

Lessy

12-16-2008, 03:35 PM

Any explain for all this love for USA? :huh:

Möller will be topscorer and make most points... :nod:

On paper I'd say they're the best team in the tourney and that's coming from a Canadian (that was painful to say).

They have far and away the best offense and the best player in the entire tournament. Goaltending is always a crapshoot but Mccollum seems like as good an option as they've had since Al Montoya. Defensively, while they may not be the class of the tournament they're easily top 3. A solid team top-to-bottom and in my opinion, the team to beat.

Redwingsfan

12-16-2008, 03:45 PM

Lessy

12-16-2008, 03:50 PM

I can't see USA team is any better than Sweden...Sweden has excellent goaltending, great defence and a very good offence(Backlund/Möller/Josefsson will dominate and MSP will be great too). I'm still not sure about USA goaltending and defence. It seems all people takling about US forwards but it isn't the whole team, right?

But I will not discuss this anymore. We will see what the results will tell in January. But this tournament will be very exciting, I'm sure.

Good luck to all participating teams, even Kazakhstan and Latvia...;)

Sweden may have the excellent goaltending but I fail to see how it's head and shoulders above USA and Canada's goaltending heading in. As good as Markstrom may be, McCollum and Pickard were higher draft picks this past June for a reason. Tokarski/Pickard and McCollum are also posting some pretty solid numbers this year in the CHL. In goal in a tournament this short it's all about who's on top of their games. Markstrom could easily be named the tournament's top goaltender but at the same time he could disappoint. The fact of the matter is, USA/Canada/Sweden all have solid goaltending on paper this year and no one has a massive advantage whatsoever in that category.

On the blueline it's the same story. Obviously Hedman and Karlsson are studs but are they that much of a step above the top 2 of Canada/USA? Not in my books. And after the top 2 the depth of USA and Canada really shows on paper whereas Sweden has only 2 NHL draftees on their blueline, one of which was a 6th rounder.

Up front, Moller is an absolute gift. The fact that he got released is a huge surprise to me but good for Sweden. As good as Backlund and Moller are, I'd take JVR and Wilson over them and Canada's top 2 is at least in their league (Tavares and whoever). Again after those top 2 guys up front the Swedes don't seem particularly strong. Canada cut about 3 guys with a comparable skillset/age of MSP. Sweden has some nice pieces but I don't think they have the depth that they had last year to compete with the big boys the way many are suggesting. Maybe I'll be proven wrong but I consider the USA and Canada to be co-favourites for this tourney.

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 04:37 PM

Be sure: JVR and Wilson isn't better than Backlund and Möller. Give me Möller/Backlund 10 of 10 times...And YES Sweden has the best goaltendering by far. It's even not close. I doubt any of you have seen the Swedes play at all. MSP and Josefsson is highly talented and that's why they are high ranked for 2009 draft. I believe much more on ISS and the scouts than you. MSP and Josefsson will rock in WJC escpecially Josefsson since he will probably play with Möller/Backlund. Tedenby is very good too. I can only see Tavares over MSP, the rest of Canadains, NO! Even the US forwards don't impress me at all. Schroeder better than MSP? NO and not much better than Josefsson either. Hedman will probably easily be the best d-man in the tourney. Remember Markström wasn't drafted early but now he's by far the best goalie. The draft doesn't mean much. Escpecially not when it was one or two year the being drafted. Many things has happen since that. Some players didn't be that good some people thought and other players are much better than the draft pick say, Markström is an example. Lessy said Markström can disappoint????? Maybe, but I really doubt that since he's magnificent in SEL. This is fresh results from games from the last weeks. But people says how good JVR and Wilson are? But how you know that??? Because they were dominating a year ago?????? I never seen any fresh results from them. Nothing about how good they are now. Then I think it's much bigger possibly that USA will disappoint than Sweden. The Swedes are great NOW! Möller too for example.

Like what other already said. USA always is very hyped but their results is always disappointing. In the whole WJC history USA have only 5 medals. Sweden has 13 medals but is never nearly that hyped as USA. Sweden has five medals only in NA tournaments. That's what USA has in the whole WJC history. When will USA stand up fot their hype?

For me the big favorites are Canada and Sweden. I'm not even sure USA will take any medal at all. The history is against them. They have disappoint to many times then I not really trust in them.

FrankMTL

12-16-2008, 04:49 PM

Be sure: JVR and Wilson isn't better than Backlund and Möller. Give me Möller/Backlund 10 of 10 times...And YES Sweden has the best goaltendering by far. It's even not close. I doubt any of you have seen the Swedes play at all. MSP and Josefsson is highly talented and that's why they are high ranked for 2009 draft. I believe much more on ISS and the scouts than you. MSP and Josefsson will rock in WJC escpecially Josefsson since he will probably play with Möller/Backlund. Tedenby is very good too. I can only see Tavares over MSP, the rest of Canadains, NO! Even the US forwards don't impress me at all. Schroeder better than MSP? NO and not much better than Josefsson either. Hedman will probably easily be the best d-man in the tourney. Remember Markström wasn't drafted early but now he's by far the best goalie. The draft doesn't mean much. Escpecially not when it was one or two year the being drafted. Many things has happen since that. Some players didn't be that good some people thought and other players are much better than the draft pick say, Markström is an example. Lessy said Markström can disappoint????? Maybe, but I really doubt that since he's magnificent in SEL. This is fresh results from games from the last weeks. But people says how good JVR and Wilson are? But how you know that??? Because they were dominating a year ago?????? I never seen any fresh results from them. Nothing about how good they are now. Then I think it's much bigger possibly that USA will disappoint than Sweden. The Swedes are great NOW! Möller too for example.

Like what other already said. USA always is very hyped but their results is always disappointing. In the whole WJC history USA have only 5 medals. Sweden has 13 medals but is never nearly that hyped as USA. Sweden has five medals only in NA tournaments. That's what USA has in the whole WJC history. When will USA stand up fot their hype?

LOL...I like your enthusiasm. I guess we will see when they play the games. I'm confident in this Canadian team, like I am with most Canadian WJC teams. Under-estimate us all you want. ;)

As for the USA..I think they will have a very strong team, just like I think Sweden will have a very strong team. No need to criticize the Americans. After all, they have won 1 more gold medal than Sweden in the last decade.

Lessy

12-16-2008, 04:53 PM

Be sure: JVR and Wilson isn't better than Backlund and Möller. Give me Möller/Backlund 10 of 10 times...And YES Sweden has the best goaltendering by far. It's even close.I doubt any of you have seen the Swedes play at all. MSP and Josefsson is highly talented and that's why they are high ranked for 2009 draft. I believe much more on ISS and the scouts than you. MSP and Josefsson will rock in WJC escpecially Josefsson since he will probably play with Möller/Backlund. Tedenby is very good too. I can only see Tavares over MSP, the rest of Canadains, NO! Even the US forwards don't impress me at all. Schroeder better than MSP? NO and not much better than Josefsson either. Hedman will probably easily be the best d-man in the tourney. Remember Markström wasn't drafted early but now he's by far the best goalie. The draft doesn't mean much. Escpecially not when it was one or two year the being drafted. Many things has happen since that. Some players didn't be that good some people thought and other players are much better than the draft pick say, Markström is an example. Lessy said Markström can disappoint????? Maybe, but I really doubt that since he's magnificent in SEL. This is fresh results from games from the last weeks. But people says how good JVR and Wilson are? But how you know that??? Because they were dominating a year ago?????? I never seen any fresh results from them. Nothing about how good they are now. Then I think it's much bigger possibly that USA will disappoint than Sweden. The Swedes are great NOW! Möller too for example.

Like what other already said. USA always is very hyped but their results is always disappointing. In the whole WJC history USA have only 5 medals. Sweden has 13 medals but is never nearly that hyped as USA. Sweden has five medals only in NA tournaments. That's what USA has in the whole WJC history. When will USA stand up fot their hype?

You're contradicting yourself by saying you'll listen to scouts and the ISS before me and then saying the draft doesn't mean much.

We obviously have different opinions of Moller/Backlund and JVR/Wilson. Personally I'd take the American duo but you're more than entitled to your opinion and you can make a legitimate argument for both. I just think that after those top 2 guys for each team Sweden has a substantial dropoff compared to Canada/USA.

You do realize that Canada cut 4 or 5 guys ranked in the neighbourhood of MSP and Josefsson for this years draft right? Schenn, Duchene, Kadri, Kane and Cowen, who wasn't even invited.

I don't see how you say Markstrom is easily the best goaltender in the tournament either. Like I said, McCollum and Pickard were both drafted higher this past June for a reason. I'm not saying they're easily better than Markstrom but I fail to see how you place Markstrom head and shoulders above those guys, especially considering the fact that they've had solid seasons in the CHL to this point (and the same goes for Tokarski).

JVR has close to double the points as the second leading scorer on his team. Colin Wilson also leads his team in scoring by a country mile. Add in the fact that those two guys are possibly the most physically imposing players in the entire tournament and I don't think it's a stretch to say they'll dominate again and those are pretty fresh results.

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 04:54 PM

;)

LOL...I like your enthusiasm. I guess we will see when they play the games. I'm confident in this Canadian team, like I am with most Canadian WJC teams. Under-estimate us all you want. ;)

I think Canada has a big shot for the Gold. They are my favorites along with Sweden. But I don't trust in Team USA. :) I think a Gold medal game repeat from last year. Except that Sweden will win 3-2 in overtime. ;)

serratedmuffin

12-16-2008, 04:56 PM

Alberta tough

12-16-2008, 05:01 PM

Canada is sending there "B" team to the 2009 WJC so these are what the results will look like in my opinion.
gold = USA big ,fairly high skilled team looks like they finally have goaltending as well
silver = Canada missing way too much skill with 8 guys in NHL to compete with the USA.They will however have enough heart and try to get the gold medal game.
bronze = Sweden very good team as well . I think the U.S is a bit better and Canada is playing at home on the smaller ice surface. So these teams will finish higher.
If Canada had there "A" team going no country would be able to compete with them.
2010 and 2011 should be Canada's golden years again.

e46265

12-16-2008, 05:03 PM

danishh

12-16-2008, 05:05 PM

Group A:
1. Canada
2. United States
3. Czech Republic
4. Germany
5. Kazakhstan

Group B:
1. Sweden
2. Russia
3. Finland
4. Slovakia
5. Latvia

Medal Round:
Canada over Russia
Sweden over United States
Bronze Game: United States over Russia
Gold Game: Sweden over Canada

you missed a round. Canada and Sweden get byes to the semis in your situation, and USA plays Finland, Russia plays Czech Rep in the quarters. The winners go on to face canada and sweden, but i'm not sure how that one is decided (i'm pretty sure its designed so that 1-2 teams in the same group can meet in the finals, so i think USA would play Sweden and Russia would play Canada).

see this (http://hfboards.com/showpost.php?p=16832751&postcount=61) for my game by game, its pretty similar to your results until the medal round.

wjhl2009fan

12-16-2008, 05:21 PM

ZDH

12-16-2008, 05:24 PM

Anyone who thinks Sweden's goalie is heads and tails better than all other teams goalies is just plain stupid

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 05:33 PM

You're contradicting yourself by saying you'll listen to scouts and the ISS before me and then saying the draft doesn't mean much.

We obviously have different opinions of Moller/Backlund and JVR/Wilson. Personally I'd take the American duo but you're more than entitled to your opinion and you can make a legitimate argument for both. I just think that after those top 2 guys for each team Sweden has a substantial dropoff compared to Canada/USA.

You do realize that Canada cut 4 or 5 guys ranked in the neighbourhood of MSP and Josefsson for this years draft right? Schenn, Duchene, Kadri, Kane and Cowen, who wasn't even invited.

I don't see how you say Markstrom is easily the best goaltender in the tournament either. Like I said, McCollum and Pickard were both drafted higher this past June for a reason. I'm not saying they're easily better than Markstrom but I fail to see how you place Markstrom head and shoulders above those guys, especially considering the fact that they've had solid seasons in the CHL to this point (and the same goes for Tokarski).

JVR has close to double the points as the second leading scorer on his team. Colin Wilson also leads his team in scoring by a country mile. Add in the fact that those two guys are possibly the most physically imposing players in the entire tournament and I don't think it's a stretch to say they'll dominate again and those are pretty fresh results.

The ranking for draft 2009 is more fresh than the ranking fot draft 2007. Just for example. Markström is MUCH better now than he was drafted last year. That's what I mean changes happend. Some player getting worser and other getting better. So yes I say Markström is far better based on the fresh results. Duchen Cowen ect isn't mauch better than MSP if you look at the draft ranling. Don't forget that Sweden could have Anton Lander in the team. But he isn't. Why? Yes the Sweden's offence is stacked and great.
In defence Sweden could have Oliver Ekman Larsson and Johan Motin. Why aren't they in the team? Yes because Sweden's defence is stacked and great. These are just examples.
JVR and Wilson are good in a junior teams???? Well MSP, Hedman, Markström, Tedenby ect are good in SEL which are a proffessional and senior league. Möller has been good in NHL, the best league in the whole world.

Last year JVR/Wilson dominated and USA was hyped but they... MISSED MEDALS! Why do you think they will better this year? A team must have great goalies and d-men too. Not onlt a dominating line. JVR/Wilson can dominate how much they want, but I'm still not sure that USA will take any medals at all.

serratedmuffin

12-16-2008, 05:33 PM

I would not call this canadas b teams.This canada team still does have a good amount of skill.

Stamkos, Doughty, Gagner, Schenn, Turris. That's a whole first line, and that's not everyone. I dont think Canada could make two teams better than Sweden and USA, but if we had everyone, we'd be the hands down favorites.

Oh and about the whole swedish prospects thing. Calgary's best prospect is a swede and a swede is going to go #1 overall. More hate on the swedes just means we're jealous :naughty:

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 05:34 PM

Anyone who thinks Sweden's goalie is heads and tails better than all other teams goalies is just plain stupid

WHY? He's much better!

ZDH

12-16-2008, 05:40 PM

WHY? He's much better!

So much so that he didn't even go in the 1st round of last years draft? Pickard went way before him and McCollum was drafted before him as well, by Detroit who have a hard-on for drafting Swedes. If he was so much better I doubt 2 goalies would've went before he did.

McCollum will win goaltender of the tourny, IMO.

I know you'll say Markstrom has gotten better, but so has McCollum...so that's a moot point.

CraigC

12-16-2008, 05:40 PM

I don't think the Goaltender and defence is good enough!

The USA's defense is made up entirely of players from the 07 draft including 4 1st rounders.....I don't think it will be an issue and is top 2 in defense with Team Canada.

Rabid Ranger

12-16-2008, 05:45 PM

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 05:46 PM

[QUOTE=STHLM;16837312]Be sure: JVR and Wilson isn't better than Backlund and Möller. Give me Möller/Backlund 10 of 10 times...And YES Sweden has the best goaltendering by far. It's even not close. . Schroeder better than MSP? NO and not much better than Josefsson either. Hedman will probably easily be the best d-man in the tourney. much bigger possibly that USA will disappoint than Sweden. The Swedes are great NOW! Möller too for example.

Why cant we ever have a thread about team sweden or swedish prospects
that are objective and constructive??
Always this bickering, its so boring.
Please people stop arguing with him, its pointless.
Its ok that you overrate swedes, other people sometimes overrate their
country's prospects as well. But you always come off so agressive,
and disrespectful.

And we only have to go back a few monts to the WJCH 18. Where our
90's and 91's who are supposed to be so great, finished outside of the medals and
franktly where not close to winning either the semi or the bronze medal game.
Versus canada and USA.
And markström really did not impress in that tournament.

About Markström, he's great now. It's only because of him that Brynäs isn't worser than what they are.
JVR and Wilson are sooooo great!! Right?? Last year in WJC Backlund had 7 points and that's same what Wilson had. How much better are Wilson then???? He's much more hype than any Swede. USA is much more hype than Sweden. Say me, was USA better than Sweden last year??? Even with the FANTASTIC JVR/Wilson???
I'm sure you are American or Canadian that's why you attacking Sweden.

wjhl2009fan

12-16-2008, 05:48 PM

Stamkos, Doughty, Gagner, Schenn, Turris. That's a whole first line, and that's not everyone. I dont think Canada could make two teams better than Sweden and USA, but if we had everyone, we'd be the hands down favorites.

Oh and about the whole swedish prospects thing. Calgary's best prospect is a swede and a swede is going to go #1 overall. More hate on the swedes just means we're jealous :naughty:

But from all account canada was not expecting to get the nhlers back.

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 05:50 PM

So much so that he didn't even go in the 1st round of last years draft? Pickard went way before him and McCollum was drafted before him as well, by Detroit who have a hard-on for drafting Swedes. If he was so much better I doubt 2 goalies would've went before he did.

McCollum will win goaltender of the tourny, IMO.

I know you'll say Markstrom has gotten better, but so has McCollum...so that's a moot point.

I doubt you have seen Markström att all in SEL this year. He has been amazing! That's why so many wonder whaty he wasn't picked earlier. Look at the thread about that! Markström will be the best goalie, no doubt about that!

William H Bonney

12-16-2008, 05:51 PM

Be sure: JVR and Wilson isn't better than Backlund and Möller. Give me Möller/Backlund 10 of 10 times....

Well you'd officially be the worst hockey GM in the history of the world.

Lessy

12-16-2008, 05:53 PM

The ranking for draft 2009 is more fresh than the ranking fot draft 2007. Just for example. Markström is MUCH better now than he was drafted last year. That's what I mean changes happend. Some player getting worser and other getting better. So yes I say Markström is far better based on the fresh results. Duchen Cowen ect isn't mauch better than MSP if you look at the draft ranling. Don't forget that Sweden could have Anton Lander in the team. But he isn't. Why? Yes the Sweden's offence is stacked and great.
In defence Sweden could have Oliver Ekman Larsson and Johan Motin. Why aren't they in the team? Yes because Sweden's defence is stacked and great. These are just examples.
JVR and Wilson are good in a junior teams???? Well MSP, Hedman, Markström, Tedenby ect are good in SEL which are a proffessional and senior league. Möller has been good in NHL, the best league in the whole world.

Last year JVR/Wilson dominated and USA was hyped but they... MISSED MEDALS! Why do you think they will better this year? A team must have great goalies and d-men too. Not onlt a dominating line. JVR/Wilson can dominate how much they want, but I'm still not sure that USA will take any medals at all.

Markstrom may have improved since the draft but the stats of McCollum and Pickard and Tokarski do not necessarily suggest that they've regressed. Like I said goaltending is a crapshoot. I wouldn't be surprised to see Markstrom named the best goalie in the tournament but it also wouldn't shock me to see him get outduelled by McCollum and whomever Canada starts. It's ridiculous to say Markstrom is "by far" the best goaltender in the tournament because anything can happen in a 6 game tournament. Duchene, Cowen, Kane, Kadri, etc aren't much better than MSP and I never said they were better but there's no questioning those guys are in MSP's league. The difference? They got cut from Canada while MSP is expected to be the third best forward on Team Sweden.

As for those guys you've named, any country can say that so-and-so isn't there because this position is stacked. Personally I haven't heard of any of those guys except Motin partially because I don't follow the Swedish Elite Leagues and partially because they aren't high draft picks which is usually a good indication of success in this tournament.

I can assure you that Colin Wilson and JVR would be playing NHL hockey right now if they didn't go the collegiate route. They are men against boys in terms of physicality in this tourney and they can put up points. They'd fit right in the NHL right now.

I also think you're underrating the American defense and goaltending. McCollum is at the very least comparable to Markstrom in every sense. Defense might not be the Americans strong point but it's far from a blatant weakness. They've got experience and quite a few NHL first rounders. The Swedes have 2 NHL draft picks back there.

Again, I'm a Canadian and would rather see Sweden win than the USA. I just think the US is getting underrated on here and the Swedes overrated.

danishh

12-16-2008, 05:53 PM

I doubt you have seen Markström att all in SEL this year. He has been amazing! That's why so many wonder whaty he wasn't picked earlier. Look at the thread about that! Markström will be the best goalie, no doubt about that!

i think its pretty fair to say that in hindsight, markstom was the best goalie in the draft, but to say "no doubt about that" about a goalie? Goalie's can go from amazing to crap and vice-versa more easily than any other position. There is just no way it can be that clear cut. Add to that the fact that in a short tournament like this, any goalie can get hot, i dont see how you can count on Markstrom being the best goalie - bar none - in this tournament. He's probably the favorite for tender of the tournament, but when we're talking about goalies, anything can happen.

CraigC

12-16-2008, 05:53 PM

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 05:56 PM

Well you'd officially be the worst hockey GM in the history of the world.

Well Möller has do well in NHL. Can you say that about JVR and Wilson? No??? WJC 2008: Backlund and Wilson both had 7 points so how much better was Wilson?

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 06:00 PM

I couldn't even read all that crap, its ridiculous. Canada cut 4 forwards that are on par with MSP......

Sweden is very talented, but also very young and not as deep, you sir are going to be a very disapoointed boy at the end of all this.

The only one who will be disappointed is the Americans like almost every year. USA is always very overated but the results are...hmmmmm...not good. Remember last year the missed the medals.

Lessy

12-16-2008, 06:02 PM

I doubt you have seen Markström att all in SEL this year. He has been amazing! That's why so many wonder whaty he wasn't picked earlier. Look at the thread about that! Markström will be the best goalie, no doubt about that!

Really? You don't have much experience watching this tournament if you say there's no doubt about that. In a 6-game tournament it's all about who can get and stay hot. While I haven't seen Markstrom in the SEL have you seen McCollum in the OHL this year? What about Dustin Tokarski in Spokane of the WHL? Their numbers are disgusting. Markstrom doesn't exactly have a rich history of International experience either going back to that U18 I believe. He was also drafted behind Pickard and McCollum a few months ago for a reason.

Remember Marc-Andre Fleury? Tears the tournament up in 2003 and completely implodes the next year. Everyone thought MAF was a sure thing and yet he was awful. And let me tell you, Markstrom is a substantially larger question mark this year than Fleury was heading into the 2004 tourney. I'm not suggesting Markstrom is going to be awful, nor am I suggesting he can't win goaltender of the tournament. Both are possibilities. However to say there's no doubt he'll be the best goalie is pretty ridiculous.

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 06:05 PM

Really? You don't have much experience watching this tournament if you say there's no doubt about that. In a 6-game tournament it's all about who can get and stay hot. While I haven't seen Markstrom in the SEL have you seen McCollum in the OHL this year? What about Dustin Tokarski in Spokane of the WHL? Their numbers are disgusting. Markstrom doesn't exactly have a rich history of International experience either going back to that U18 I believe. He was also drafted behind Pickard and McCollum a few months ago for a reason.

Remember Marc-Andre Fleury? Tears the tournament up in 2003 and completely implodes the next year. Everyone thought MAF was a sure thing and yet he was awful. And let me tell you, Markstrom is a substantially larger question mark this year than Fleury was heading into the 2004 tourney. I'm not suggesting Markstrom is going to be awful, nor am I suggesting he can't win goaltender of the tournament. Both are possibilities. However to say there's no doubt he'll be the best goalie is pretty ridiculous.

And to say McCollum will be the best goalie isn't ridicolous, you think?:sarcasm:

Lessy

12-16-2008, 06:05 PM

Well Möller has do well in NHL. Can you say that about JVR and Wilson? No??? WJC 2008: Backlund and Wilson both had 7 points so how much better was Wilson?

You can't say that about JVR and Wilson because they went the US college route. I can guarantee you that if they went the CHL route they would be in the NHL right now and not be playing in this tournament. As a Canadian I'm not looking forward to facing JVR and Wilson. They're Hummers in a tournament of Smart Cars.

CraigC

12-16-2008, 06:06 PM

The only one who will be disappointed is the Americans like almost every year. USA is always very overated but the results are...hmmmmm...not good. Remember last year the missed the medals.

What does last year have to do with it? They are returning almost all their best players and are the oldest team in the tournament. That is a huge advantage!

Lessy

12-16-2008, 06:07 PM

And to say McCollum will be the best goalie isn't ridicolous, you think?:sarcasm:

Where did I say that exactly? I said there are three strong candidates for goaltender of the tournament heading in. Ironically, they also tend net for the consensus top 3 teams in the tourney. I'd wager quite a bit that the top goaltender plays for the Gold Medal winner.

Markstrom
McCollum
Tokarski/Pickard

Are the top 3 candidates in no order and you can't convince me one is miles better than the other right now.

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 06:08 PM

You can't say that about JVR and Wilson because they went the US college route. I can guarantee you that if they went the CHL route they would be in the NHL right now and not be playing in this tournament. As a Canadian I'm not looking forward to facing JVR and Wilson. They're Hummers in a tournament of Smart Cars.

You think Wilson is much better than Backlund? Why??? I can't see it. And still we don't know how JVR and Wilson will have done in NHL because they aren't there. That's why I pick Möller before them.

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 06:10 PM

Where did I say that exactly? I said there are three strong candidates for goaltender of the tournament heading in. Ironically, they also tend net for the consensus top 3 teams in the tourney. I'd wager quite a bit that the top goaltender plays for the Gold Medal winner.

Markstrom
McCollum
Tokarski/Pickard

Are the top 3 candidates in no order and you can't convince me one is miles better than the other right now.

I didn't say that you said that. But you attacking me for saying that but not the guy who said McCollum will be the best goalie.

Garl

12-16-2008, 06:14 PM

STHLM stop this stupidity, you're making us, swedish homers look bad by your eextreme homerism and incompetence.

To all who are arguing though, STHLM is a homer. But that doesn't mean you must make ridiculous arguments like Pickard was picked higher than Markstrom, so he's better.

Prediction

Gold-Sweden
Silver-Canada
Bronze-USA/Russia

STHLM*

12-16-2008, 06:18 PM

Lessy

12-16-2008, 06:20 PM

I didn't say that you said that. But you attacking me for saying that but not the guy who said McCollum will be the best goalie.

I'm done with this too... Just wanted to say my mistake for not seeing the guy who said McCollum would be the best goalie

Garl

12-16-2008, 06:24 PM

And we only have to go back a few monts to the WJCH 18. Where our
90's and 91's who are supposed to be so great, finished outside of the medals and
franktly where not close to winning either the semi or the bronze medal game.
Versus canada and USA.
And markström really did not impress in that tournament.

You're either over-critical for your own team or too shy and tries to make Swedes not look like homers or smth.

Do I need to remind you where did 88 class ended at WJC U18? №6 If I'm not mistaken.

Now, I have seen semis by myself. I predicted that Sweden will loose after 1,5 periods because the game was going to that direction. But by no way it was because Canada was much better. No, actually Swedes had more puck control. It was because I think that Lund can't change flow of the game, if everything goes well, Sweden will win with him just by talent like at U18 World Cup in August. But if other team's coach is high quality guy like Pat Quinn, Sweden has problems. And it's not players fault it's coach. To say that Sweden was not close to win semis is ridiculous. It was a VERY close game.

As for bronze medal game. Sweden won group stage game vs US, and that was quite a battle. US is a strong team, sometimes you win sometimes not. It was 2nd case in this game. Also Hedman was in a bad shape after dirty cheapshot from Finn Sallinen, and Josefson(best scoreer btw) left tournament because of family reasons.

Par Marts is much better coach that Lund, don't forget that.

William H Bonney

12-16-2008, 06:32 PM

You think Wilson is much better than Backlund? Why??? I can't see it. And still we don't know how JVR and Wilson will have done in NHL because they aren't there. That's why I pick Möller before them.

Moller is on the 4th line in LA. One of the worst teams in the league. JVR is better than any of them and Wilson is at worst on par with any Sweden forward. The only reason JVR and Wilson aren't in the NHL is because they chose to stay in college.

Drayson Bowman had stats equivalent to your godsend Moller in the WHL too. So I guess he'll dominate the tournament for Team USA?

In last years tournament:

JVR: 11 pts
Wilson: 7 pts

Moller: 5 pts
Backlund: 7 pts

So how that equates to the Swedish duo being better than the best line in the tournament last year, and by projections of EVERYONE, to be the best line again, then please share your magic nose candy with everyone else and we'll all be flying high.

Garl

12-16-2008, 06:49 PM

Moller is on the 4th line in LA. One of the worst teams in the league. JVR is better than any of them and Wilson is at worst on par with any Sweden forward. The only reason JVR and Wilson aren't in the NHL is because they chose to stay in college.

Drayson Bowman had stats equivalent to your godsend Moller in the WHL too. So I guess he'll dominate the tournament for Team USA?

In last years tournament:

JVR: 11 pts
Wilson: 7 pts

Moller: 5 pts
Backlund: 7 pts

So how that equates to the Swedish duo being better than the best line in the tournament last year, and by projections of EVERYONE, to be the best line again, then please share your magic nose candy with everyone else and we'll all be flying high.

We're all living in America,
America is wunderbar.
We're all living in America,
Amerika, Amerika.

Some ridiculous statements as usual.

Moller isn't a 4th liner in LA. And he is also as proven in NHL as a player of his age can be. Wilson and JVR are not. It's ridiculous to say that they for sure would have been in NHL if they were not in NCAA. It's not a fact. Look at how good is Stamkos doing or even Turris or Sheppard.

Also about this Bowman vs Moller. Do you know, there are many greatjunior scorers that never translate their game to NHL? How can you say Bowman is on the same level as Moller when he hasn't played in NHL yet?

William H Bonney

12-16-2008, 06:54 PM

We're all living in America,
America is wunderbar.
We're all living in America,
Amerika, Amerika.

Some ridiculous statements as usual.

Moller isn't a 4th liner in LA. And he is also a proven player in NHL. Wilson and JVR are not. It's ridiculous to say that they for sure would have been in NHL if they were not in NCAA. It's not a fact.

Also about this Bowman vs Moller. Do you know, there are many greatjunior scorers that never translate their game to NHL? How can you say Bowman is on the same level as Moller when he hasn't played in NHL yet?

Moller is currently a fourth liner in the NHL. I watch every Kings game as I live in So Cal. He's a nice prospect and all and has done well so far in his rookie season but he's far from a "proven NHLer." I think he will be and all but that's ridiculous as well.

Where did I say Bowman would be a better player in the NHL than Moller? I mentioned the WJC but not the NHL.

I love your circular arguments though. You bash me for saying Bowman is on the level of Moller because he hasn't played a game yet in the NHL, yet all the while you team Sweden fans have been shoving Hedman down our throats as the greatest thing since sliced bread, but by all my accounts, he hasn't played a game in the NHL either.

Garl

12-16-2008, 07:09 PM

Moller is currently a fourth liner in the NHL. I watch every Kings game as I live in So Cal. He's a nice prospect and all and has done well so far in his rookie season but he's far from a "proven NHLer." I think he will be and all but that's ridiculous as well.

Where did I say Bowman would be a better player in the NHL than Moller? I mentioned the WJC but not the NHL.

I love your circular arguments though. You bash me for saying Bowman is on the level of Moller because he hasn't played a game yet in the NHL, yet all the while you team Sweden fans have been shoving Hedman down our throats as the greatest thing since sliced bread, but by all my accounts, he hasn't played a game in the NHL either.

Moller was a 4th liner yesterday, he can be a 3rd liner next game. He isn't consistently playing wth Ivanans and Zeiler.

Now Moller easily can not be the best forward at WJC despite being only NHLer. But IMO you can't say Bowman is on the same level. Maybe he is but it's impossible to figure out, because Bowman has never played in NHL.

If you will say Tavares is better than Moller. I can agree, Tavares is a TOP prospect with exeptional talent. Bowman? don't think so.

Hedman? Well he's really a great prospect who is doing well against competition that is way more experinced than him.

However aside from STHLM who is a bad homer nobody is overhyping swedish players.

Back to Moller. Actually all this he's in NHL already thing isn't main for me. Well it's not a sure thing he will dominate at WJC more than JVR or Wilson. He's really good player though, and if he was American, he would have been as hyped by Americans as JVR or Wilson, so no reason to try to make him look worser than he is by saying that he is a 4th liner ON A VERY BAD NHL team or that Bowman had same stats so he is as good as him.

cosmicnavigator

12-16-2008, 07:12 PM

Markström will struggle he ain´t familiar with the smaller rink size this also takes goalies longer time to adjust to. Sweden has a very young team, I don´t think they will contend for the gold in 09 but 2010 look out.

US gold
Canada silver
Sweden bronze

worstfaceoffmanever

12-16-2008, 07:41 PM

you missed a round. Canada and Sweden get byes to the semis in your situation, and USA plays Finland, Russia plays Czech Rep in the quarters.

So they throw in an extra game for ****s and giggles?

jaydub

12-16-2008, 07:45 PM

why is this in canada about 50% of the time? not much of an international tourny...

eb_87

12-16-2008, 07:55 PM

why is this in canada about 50% of the time? not much of an international tourny...

Because the tourny makes a boatload of money when it is hosted in Canada. The IIHF signed an agreement with Hockey Canada to host the tourny every 3 years until 2012. Canada was also awarded the 2010 tourny when the original host country (can't remember who) backed out.

Oh and Canada for the Gold!

!!TML97!!

12-16-2008, 07:56 PM

Gold - Canada
Silver - Sweden
Bronze - Russia

cantwell7

12-16-2008, 08:04 PM

Gold - Canada
Silver - Russia
Bronze - Sweden

USA - Dead Last = Relagation

tony d

12-16-2008, 09:04 PM

Gold- Sweden
Silver- Russia
Bronze- Canada

Ovechkin187

12-16-2008, 09:10 PM

Gold: Canada
Silver: USA
Bronze: Sweden
4th: Russia

Dripper

12-17-2008, 12:27 PM

Gold: Sweden
Silver: USA
Bronze: Canada
..
Kazakhstan and Latvia will be relegated.

bretzky29ca

12-17-2008, 01:49 PM

1.USa
2.Canada
3.Russia
4.Slovakia
5.Sweden
6.Czech Republic
7.Germany
8.Latvia
9.Finland-relegated
10.Kazaksthan-Relegated

Cardiac_Canes

12-17-2008, 01:51 PM

1.USa
2.Canada
3.Russia
4.Slovakia
5.Sweden
6.Czech Republic
7.Germany
8.Latvia
9.Finland-relegated
10.Kazaksthan-Relegated

Cue up angry Swedish posters in 3, 2, 1......

And Finland relegated? I know they've fallen off a little but finishing behind Germany and Latvia is nonsense. You sure do have some different opinions.

Neil Patrick Harris

12-17-2008, 02:38 PM

Pauser

12-17-2008, 02:40 PM

Gold: Canada
Silver: Sweden
Bronze: USA

Russia falters and narrowly avoids the relegation.

Dr Awesome

12-17-2008, 04:09 PM

Gold: Canada

Silver: Sweden

Bronze: Russia

Dr Awesome

12-17-2008, 04:12 PM

Because the tourny makes a boatload of money when it is hosted in Canada. The IIHF signed an agreement with Hockey Canada to host the tourny every 3 years until 2012. Canada was also awarded the 2010 tourny when the original host country (can't remember who) backed out.

Oh and Canada for the Gold!

Nice tidbit of info, I didnt know canada had that agreement with the IIHF.

wjhl2009fan

12-17-2008, 04:21 PM

why is this in canada about 50% of the time? not much of an international tourny...

When its in canada it gets amazing support.There crwods will be great all tournemant long for the most part.

Running Riot

12-17-2008, 04:48 PM

Gold - Latvia
Silver - Kazakhstan
Bronze - Germany

Rabid Ranger

12-17-2008, 05:20 PM

USA
Sweden
Canada
Russia

Though if Canada could have the players in the NHL......okay we won't go there. :laugh:

I predict this will be the year that USA hockey starts a dominance not seen since the Soviet Union.

That would be nice, but next year the U.S. will feature virtually no returning players, so any "dominance" might be short lived. I think it's a four horse race: Canada, Russia, Sweden, and the U.S.

Without being overly homerish, this is the most optimistic I've been about the U.S. chances since...well last year! :sarcasm:

Seriously though, if McCollum stands tall in net I really think the U.S. has a great chance at bringing home gold.

v-man

12-17-2008, 07:55 PM

1.Canada
2.Sweden
3.Russia
4.USA
5.Czech Republic
6.Finland
7.Slovakia
8.Latvia
9.Germany
10.Kazakhstan

yanokovich

12-17-2008, 08:08 PM

Gold:Sweden
Silver:USA
Bronze:Canada

67Cup

12-17-2008, 08:39 PM

Gold USA
Silver Russia
Bronze Sweden
4th Canada

I think the one place Canada will not finish is 3rd. If they lose in the semifinals in front of a home crowd, they would be so down that they would likely lose to whoever is their opponent.

I hope I'm wrong but I think this could be a very difficult tournament for Canada. An unusually large number of players are in the NHL and I am not sure of the talent of what is left. I even think it is possible that this could be like the Turin Olympics with Canada falling to 6th.

I hope I am wrong.

wjhl2009fan

12-17-2008, 08:59 PM

John Agar

12-17-2008, 09:27 PM

Gold Sweden
Silver USA
Canada Bronze (and this is a maybe)

Too many young players for Canada this year.

Next year...Canada gold

Flyersfan1216

12-17-2008, 10:35 PM

I'm not a Sweden hater but after reading this thread and that Sweden homer , I sort of hope Markstrom gets lit up and MSP and company dont score.

Hockeyfrk

12-17-2008, 10:38 PM

Gold - Sweden
Silver - Canada
Bronze - USA (prove me wrong please :) )

the dutch guy

12-17-2008, 11:21 PM

1.canada
2.sweden
3.usa
4.russia
5.finland
6. czechy republoic
7. Germany
8.slovakia
9.latvia
10.kazakstan

Rob

12-18-2008, 12:08 AM

Gold -Sweden
Silver- Russia
Bronze-USA
4th-Canada

danishh

12-18-2008, 12:13 AM

Gold -Sweden
Silver- Russia
Bronze-USA
4th-Canada

this is the only realistic situation i see canada come 4th: canada and russia get the byes because sweden plays a bad game against russia in round robin, then sweden beats canada in the semis. USA has the potential to beat canada as well, especially a 2nd time around.

I just dont see canada losing to russia at all. No offense.

the way i see it:
Canada can lose to sweden or usa
Sweden can lose to canada or usa or russia
USA can lose to canada or sweden
Russia can lose to any of them.

Jagger Bomb

12-18-2008, 01:14 AM

Canada - U.S.A. would be a perfect final for me, with Canada beating the s*** right outta them in the final, yup.. that would be gooooooood.

e46265

12-18-2008, 03:27 AM

You're either over-critical for your own team or too shy and tries to make Swedes not look like homers or smth.
Now, I have seen semis by myself. I predicted that Sweden will loose after 1,5
Par Marts is much better coach that Lund, don't forget that.

I am very shy and humble. Thats the story of my life...
I guess extreme homerism just rubs me the wrong way and makes
me go way way in the other direction.

And I definately agree that Marts is a much better coach than Lund.
Thats one of the main reasons for optimism, he seems to be very good
at working mentally with the players and installing the
right attitude in them. I loved the kind of character that last years team showed.
Heck even Don Cherry (speaking of extreme homers...) had to admit that
the swedes showed a lot of heart.

I guess we'll se in a couple of weeks time, nobody would be happier than me if
they could pull it off.

canucksfan

12-18-2008, 12:21 PM

Gold - Sweden
Silver - USA
Bronze - Canada

Rob

12-19-2008, 01:09 AM

Gold - Sweden
Silver - USA
Bronze - Canada

I just can't see Canada winning a bronze medal game.

Siberian

12-19-2008, 01:37 AM

Russia will give one of their best efforts in recent tournaments in memory to Alexei Cherepanov. I am not so sure how talented this team is but they will give it all.

FiNsKa

12-19-2008, 12:58 PM

1.USa
2.Canada
3.Russia
4.Slovakia
5.Sweden
6.Czech Republic
7.Germany
8.Latvia
9.Finland-relegated
10.Kazaksthan-Relegated

Keep smoking that crack buddy...LOL.

Cardiac_Canes

12-19-2008, 01:30 PM

I just can't see Canada winning a bronze medal game.

If they lose a game and miss out on the finals they'll be embarassed enough. You think they want to finish 4th on home ice? If they do wind up in the bronze medal game I feel sorry for the team they have to face.

boozeash

12-19-2008, 02:16 PM

Steveorama

12-19-2008, 02:23 PM

The lines on Gambling websites all have Canada as heavy favourites. Maybe because they're at home, or because everyone has been hammering the line so hard. Just a couple of examples: Canada -120
Russia +450
Sweden +650
USA +750

With the expirience, size, and the amount of High caliber players I think it's hard not to take the Americans at 7.5 times your money. Sweden is also a very good bet.

Wow, I agree.
My heart is with Team Canada, but I think I might put some money on the USA. At +750, that is pretty generous odds. I think Russia and the USA's odds should be reversed, frankly and that Canada is getting way too much credit.

Zanzibar

12-21-2008, 03:12 PM

I've been looking at the rosters the past few days and this is how I think it'll look like:
1- USA
2- Canada
3- Sweden
4- Russia
5- Finland
6- Czech Republic
7- Slovakia
8- Germany
9- Kazakhstan
10- Latvia

USA and Canada are really close and too tough to call right now but gotta give USA the slight edge.

boozeash

12-21-2008, 09:52 PM

I am going to guess that the winner of this tournament will be 1 of 4 teams, Canada, USA, Russia, or Sweden. I honestly don't know too much about the Russian team but have heard that they could be very good. Sweden has a lot of Skill.....and I believe the Americans are right on par with the Canadians at forward, Defense, and goaltending.

AgentNaslund*

12-21-2008, 10:14 PM

Canada, has far too much will, and skill.

Think Calgary Flames 04 but highly skilled. Canada, has too much will. Cant see anyone beating them.

PhiltheThrill81*

12-22-2008, 08:20 PM

Canada, has far too much will, and skill.

Think Calgary Flames 04 but highly skilled. Canada, has too much will. Cant see anyone beating them.

Canada doesn't have far to much skill. They have a top team at the WJC but they are definitely not far and ahead of anyone at this tournament. You could make that statement if they had Doughty, Stamkos, Schenn, Turris and the other NHLs but they don't.

Lessy

12-23-2008, 01:54 PM

Didn't want to make new thread about this so I'll post it here:

How do the round robin games end if the game is tied? Also, what about the medal round?

Thanks.

wjhl2009fan

12-23-2008, 02:10 PM

Didn't want to make new thread about this so I'll post it here:

How do the round robin games end if the game is tied? Also, what about the medal round?

Thanks.

Play-Offs

1st Place in each pool get a bye to the semi-finals.

Quarter-Finals
Cross over sees 3rd place playing 2nd place.

3b vs 2a
3a vs 2b

FiNsKa

12-23-2008, 02:15 PM

I think this will be a very lopsided tournament with the Americans winning all their games by at least 3 goals.

Yeah ok..... :shakehead

wjhl2009fan

12-23-2008, 02:31 PM

Great come back.
Are usually this sarcastic in real life? If you don't agree, fine.
On paper the Americans are the most talented team. (in my opinion)
I wouldn't say this if Canada could use the eligible players in the NHL but that isn't happening, so I'll stick to my opinion, the Americans will dominate this tournament.
Reasons: speed, number of players from last years team, chemistry, learning from the team strife of last year, superior positional play and last but not least, they have the desire. Again my opinion...time will tell.

I don't think they will dominate.Look at the top 5 teams

Usa
Sweden
Canada
Russia
Czech Rep

I think it could be a very even tournemant.

ViD

12-23-2008, 02:31 PM

Semis

Russia beats USA
Canada beats Sweden

Final

Russia wins by a margin of 1

FiNsKa

12-23-2008, 02:32 PM

Great come back.
Are you usually this sarcastic in real life? If you don't agree, fine.
On paper the Americans are the most talented team. (in my opinion)
I wouldn't say this if Canada could use the eligible players in the NHL but that isn't happening, so I'll stick to my opinion, the Americans will dominate this tournament.
Reasons: speed, number of players from last years team, chemistry, learning from the team strife of last year, superior positional play and last but not least, they have the desire. Again my opinion...time will tell.

I wasn't trying to "come back". Your previous comment was pretty silly, and without merit.

As for the Americans dominating, I don't think so. They rarely, if ever dominate in this sport, so I would be pretty surprised if they did now.

Only time will tell what will happen, but as for them beating everyone "by at least 3 goals in every game"....:laugh:

FiNsKa

12-23-2008, 02:37 PM

I don't think they will dominate.Look at the top 5 teams

Usa
Sweden
Canada
Russia
Czech Rep

I think it could be a very even tournemant.

I think Finland should be higher ranked than Czech republic in that list.

And a few other corrections:

CANADA
SWEDEN
USA
RUSSIA
FINLAND

Lessy

12-23-2008, 03:07 PM

Play-Offs

1st Place in each pool get a bye to the semi-finals.

Quarter-Finals
Cross over sees 3rd place playing 2nd place.

3b vs 2a
3a vs 2b

I should have clarified...

I meant if a RR game is tied does it just end in a tie or does it go to shootout/OT. Is the medal round still an OT then a Shootout a la 07?

wjhl2009fan

12-23-2008, 03:12 PM

I should have clarified...

I meant if a RR game is tied does it just end in a tie or does it go to shootout/OT. Is the medal round still an OT then a Shootout a la 07?

As for round robin yes i think its 10 minutes of ot and then a so.As for the medal round i beleave its 20 minutes then a so.

pouskin74

12-24-2008, 04:35 AM

Semis

Russia beats USA
Canada beats Sweden

Final

Russia wins by a margin of 1

:D dont look that way after game with USA. even in training game.

pouskin74

12-24-2008, 04:39 AM

Final game USA -Sweden.

HotPie

12-24-2008, 11:28 AM

Canada for the gold baby.

:yo:

USA is scary this year though.

wjhl2009fan

12-24-2008, 11:41 AM

As I’ve already stated I think the Americans will dominate this year.
It’ll either be Sweden or Canada against them for the gold.
That being said, Canada again is at an unfair advantage as they have a number of players in the NHL eligible for this tournament. (Not using that as an excuse, just stating a fact)
This will be the year that other countries will look at the American program (national development program) and try to do something similar.
The American system of "hothousing" players gives them an advantage over other countries.
Canada will not be able to offer a program like the Americans due to the junior hockey system here.
The American program has produced some top talent in recent years and last nights total dominance against the Russians (5-1) shows it works.
Look for a quick change in mentality from the European countries, especially Russia.
The scary thing is, imagine if Americans took hockey seriously.

Wait so you would want canada to change there program.Keep in mind the program has worked well for many years.

wjhl2009fan

12-24-2008, 12:09 PM

Canada can’t change their program. With all the junior teams it wouldn’t be feasible.
Plus you wouldn’t get the players to come on board.
The American system of hot housing players gives them an advantage. I don’t like their system but I have to admit it works. I remember a story about Brandon Maxwell, a goalie in the US system. He was born in Florida but played all his hockey in Canada (dual citizen) the Americans chased him all over to get him to sign onto their development program before Canada could get him LOL ( I wonder if they did that with Colin Wilson)
I digress………The American system works, though, like I said, it in some ways restricts players freedom, you have to admit, the American system has produced some damn fine talent lately

I do agree the american system does work.But so does the canadian one.