Way to go USA!!! It wasn't the outcome that I expected! I thought for the US to have a chance, they would need a good start. The skating is what really impresses me, especially by the defensemen during the breakouts. The US has really improved since game one against the Germans. An interesting thing to consider is that this team really hasn't played together very much since many of the college players had final exams to attend to before the WJC.
As for Latvia not playing Girgenson, I was surprised by this decision. If Edmonton could let Nugent-Hopkins play then why can't the Rochester Americans let Girgenson play? From what I read, Girgenson would have been Latvia's best player. It isn't like Girgenson is an instrumental part of the Amerks effort (at this point). It also isn't like Latvia makes it to the WJC every year. I think the competion could have done Girgenson some good. By the way I think Nugent-Hopkins should play. N-H is of age and shouldn't be penalized because of his skill level. He was available, so let him play.
I do like the Sabres prospect parade in Ufa! Grigorenko, McCabe, Makarov and Armia are all young and still developing. I wouldn't read too much into their flaws at this point. I will take joy at their success!.
Both Russia and Sweden have very good programs. The US skated circles around the Swedes two years ago in Buffalo. But the Swedes skated circles around Canada two years ago and beat Russia last year in the final 1-0. The US can't take either team lightly. And they can't let up after todays (tonights?) win.
Wins against Canada don't happen all that often so for now, celebrate! Go USA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
