2010 WJC Tournament Recap

Here's a recap of the scores, the medalist, the big stories and what the Group Set up for next year will be like the official relegation of Latvia and Austria after finishing last while Germany and Norway won the Division 1 Tournament and have been promoted for next season for the 2011 World Junior Championships that will take place in Buffalo, New York.

Let's the start with the stats and scores of the Group Stage, Knockout Rounds and the Relegation Round.

Group Stage

12/26

Czech Republic 1 Sweden 10 (0-4, 1-2, 0-4)

Latvia 0 Canada 16 (0-5, 0-6, 0-5)

Russia 6 Austria 2 (4-1, 1-1, 1-0)

Slovakia 3 U.S.A. 7 (2-1, 1-4, 0-2)


12/27

Austria 3 Sweden 7 (0-2, 3-2, 0-3)

U.S.A. 3 Switzerland 0 (0-0, 1-0, 2-0)

Czech Republic 3 Finland 4 (2-0, 1-1, 0-3)

Slovakia 8 Latvia 3 (5-0, 2-2, 1-1)


12/28

Canada 6 Switzerland 0 (2-0, 3-0, 1-0)

Finland 0 Russia 2 (0-1, 0-1, 0-0)


12/29

Austria 1 Czech Republic 7 (1-1, 0-3, 0-3)

Latvia 1 U.S.A. 12 (0-6, 1-1, 0-5)

Sweden 4 Russia 1 (2-0, 1-1, 1-0)

Canada 8 Slovakia 2 (3-0, 4-1, 1-1)


12/30

Finland 10 Austria 1 (5-0, 3-1, 2-0)

Switzerland 7 Latvia 5 (2-3, 1-1, 4-1)


12/31

Sweden 7 Finland 1 (1-0, 3-0, 3-1)

Switzerland 4 Slovakia 1 (0-0, 1-0, 3-1)

Russia 5 Czech Republic 2 (1-0, 1-1, 3-1)

U.S.A. 4 Canada 5 (SO) (1-1, 2-1, 1-2, 0-0, 0-1)


Group Stage Standings

Group A

1. Canada 3-1-0-0 11 PTS 35-6

2. U.S.A. 3-0-1-0 10 PTS 26-9

3. Switzerland 2-0-0-2 6 PTS 11-14

4. Slovakia 1-0-0-3 3 PTS 14-22

5. Latvia 0-0-0-4 0 PTS 9-43


Group B

1. Sweden 4-0-0-0 12 PTS 28-6

2. Russia 3-0-0-1 9 PTS 14-8

3. Finland 2-0-0-2 6 PTS 15-13

4. Czech Rep. 1-0-0-3 3 PTS 13-20

5. Austria 0-0-0-4 0 PTS 7-30


Relegation Round

12/27: Slovakia 8 Latvia 3 (5-0, 2-2, 1-1)

12/19: Austria 1 Czech Republic 7 (1-1, 0-3, 0-3)

1/2: Slovakia 3 Austria 2 (2-0, 0-2, 1-0)

1/3: Czech Republic 10 Latvia 2 (5-0, 2-2, 3-0)

1/4: Czech Republic 5 Slovakia 2 (1-1, 3-1, 1-0)

1/4: Austria 4 Latvia 6 (1-4, 2-0, 1-2)


Relegation Round Standings

1. Czech Rep. 3-0-0-0 9 PTS 22-5

2. Slovakia 2-0-0-1 6 PTS 13-10

3. Latvia 1-0-0-2 3 PTS 11-22

4. Austria 0-0-0-3 0 PTS 7-16


Knockout Rounds

Quarterfinals

1/2

Russia 2 Switzerland 3 (OT) (0-0, 2-1, 0-1, 0-1)

U.S.A. 6 Finland 2 (2-0, 1-1, 3-1)


Semifinals

1/3

Canada 6 Switzerland 1 (1-0, 2-1, 3-0)

Sweden 2 U.S.A. 5 (0-1, 2-1, 0-3)


5th Place

Russia 3 Finland 4 (2-1, 0-1, 1-2)

Bronze Medal Game

Sweden 11 Switzerland 4 (5-0, 5-4, 1-0)

Gold Medal Game

Canada 5 U.S.A. 6 (OT) (2-2, 1-1, 2-2, 0-1)


Final Tournament Rankings

Gold Medal: U.S.A.

Silver Medal: Canada

Bronze Medal: Sweden

4th Place: Switzerland

5th Place: Finland

6th Place: Russia

7th Place: Czech Republic

8th Place: Slovakia

9th Place: Latvia

10th Place: Austria

Division 1 Promotion: Germany and Norway

The U.S.A. are the 2010 World Junior Champions

Austria and Latvia have been relegated to the 2011 U20 Division 1 Tournament

Germany and Norway have been promoted to the 2011 WJC in Buffalo, NY

Here's the Tournament's All Star Team that was selected by media groups during the tournament.

Tournament All Star Team

G: Benjamin Conz (SUI)

D: Alex Pietrangelo (CAN)

D: John Carlson (USA)

F: Jordan Eberle (CAN)*

F: Derek Stepan (USA)

F: Nino Niederreiter (SUI)

*Jordan Eberle was also selected the Tournament MVP

The 2011 Tournament Groups will be determined by how the teams finished the 2010 WJC. As for the 2 newly promoted teams in Germany and Norway, the Division 1 Champions will be the 9th seed while the Runner up will be the 10th seed at next years event which will take place from the HSBC Arena which is home of the Buffalo Sabres while Dwyer Arena which is on the University of Niagara Campus which is about 20 miles just outside of Buffalo. Schedule, The Group Venues and more info regarding on next year's 2011 Tournament will be on line at http://www.buffaloworldjuniors.com/

Group A: U.S.A. (1), Switzerland (4), Finland (5), Slovakia (8), Germany (9)

Group B: Canada (2), Sweden (3), Russia (6), Czech Republic (7), Norway (10)

Breakout Star, Nino Niederreiter of Switzerland

His stock is rising big time after a really successful run at the WJC where his 2 goal effort against Russia helped pull off one of the biggest upsets in recent years in the WJC. Before coming to Portland Winterhawks in the Western Hockey League, he was pretty successful with EHC Chur and HC Davos Junior Programs and even played a few games near the end of last season for HC Davos which included the playoffs as the team won the Swiss NLA title back in the Spring. After that, he decided to go to the Major Junior Import Draft where he selected by the Portland Winterhawks 2nd overall.

So far this season for Portland, he has an impressive 41 points in 37 games this season and is getting ready for the NHL Draft this summer. Despite being one of the youngest players on the Swiss Team, but he looks to be the first big forward from Switzerland to make an impact in the NHL and for the Swiss National Team Program for many years to come. Despite getting shutout twice in the Group Stage, he came back with a strong come back by scoring 6 points in the Group Stage in games against Latvia and Slovakia. He also scored a power play goal during the Bronze Medal game against Sweden and also made the All Tournament Team that was announced after the Gold Medal Game.

Most Important Group Stage Game (Czech Republic VS. Finland)

I easily could have picked the USA VS. Canada that ended the Group Stage, but they saved the best stuff for the Gold Medal Game. However, after a crushing 10-1 loss the previous day against Sweden, the Czechs were looking for a comeback against Finland. It looked good after going up 3-0, but a 2nd period goal by Teemu Hartikainen helped the Finns start a 3rd period rally with goals by Sami Vatanen on a 5 on 3 power play chance to get them within goal at 3-2. Then it looked like the Czechs calmed down after that and for a while at least, it looked like the Czechs would pull off a huge win and a comeback after the big loss against Sweden.

However, Vatanen scored with 5 and a half minutes left to tie the game at 3-3. Just 3 Min later, Rask put the Finns up for good and a 4-3 win that turned out to be the decider not just in the game. But in Group B, as the Finns would use that as the difference to make the Quarterfinals where they later went on to finish 5th after a win against Russia of the same score in the 5th place game. As for the Czechs, that loss meant that the Czechs were sent down to the relegation round where they beat Slovakia and Latvia to finish 7th overall.

Thoughts on the USA Winning Gold

When the Tournament began, a lot of people thought they would be lucky to win the Bronze Medal with the lack of experience at this level and the young roster. However, the USA embraced the underdog role to it's finest and won only the 2nd WJC Gold Medal in the Tournament's 30 plus year history.

I thought that the USA would finish at least 2nd in the group where I feared a big time loss against Canada on New Years Eve. However, they played one of the best games in this tournament in years where despite a 4-2 lead, a SO loss took them out of winning the group and getting an important bye.

I was wondering how they would respond, especially after how they got beat by Slovakia in the QF's last year. After controlling the Finns, it was a tough matchup against Sweden where a lot of people were picking them to play Canada in the Final. However after a gut wrenching 1st 2 periods where the game was tied at 2-2.

A frustrating power play early in the 3rd period gave a lot of people a lot of fits. However John Carlson started the 3rd period runaway with a goal with 7 and a half minutes left, started the USA resurgence where I felt no going back after Jerry D'Amigo scored to make it 4-2. Then in the Gold Medal, where I great confidence where they could get this done after a strong showing against them in the group stage.

The most amazing thing was that after the initial 1-0 lead by Canada in the first couple minutes, the Americans didn't trail very much after that, after going 3-2 in the opening minute, the Canadians came back to tie the game electrify the crowd in Saskatoon and I thought, O No, at some point the Canadians would take this game over. Home Ice, the Gold Medal Streak and the fact they know high pressure would help them out to win the game.

However, the Americans didn't allow that to happen in the 3rd where 2 goals just over 2 minutes apart put the team up 5-3 and a great goal tending performance by Jack Campbell seemed like it would be enough, but those Canadian Nerves came back with 2 goals by Jordan Eberle put the game tied at 5-5 and thought they would find a way to do it in OT. However, give credit to head Coach Dean Blais to put the team at ease and allowing John Carlson to score his 2nd of the game to win the WJC Gold for the Americans.

Great job boys, you ended the Gold Medal Streak and let's do this again same time next year in Buffalo, NY as we have a shot of defending a WJC gold which the USA has never done in this event. As for Matt Donovan, he did the Southwest proud by being the first player from the Southwest to win a major international hockey event and hopefully his performance will help his chances at the University of Denver and with him being in the NY Islanders program.

Also for USA Hockey, keep the Pre Tournament Camp going every year before this event, most teams have a tough camp to help their chances not just in the WJC, but in most major tournaments.

And it payed off in the biggest way for Team USA. Now let's do this next month for the Men's and Women's Olympic Tournaments in Vancouver, B.C., after a bad showing where a single win against Kazakhstan was the only thing they could muster 4 years ago. Also the Women's team failed to reach the Gold Medal Game for the first time in the Short History of the Women's Tournament.

USA Wins WJC in an Instant Classic, 6-5 in OT

A back and fourth game that brought goal tending changes from both teams, 11 goals and an amazing final with a great crowd and a great game from both sides where John Carlson scored the game winner early in OT after the USA gave up 2 goals in just over a minute to get the game in OT after being up 5-3 in the 3rd period. This is a game that should be an instant classic after winning the USA's 2nd ever gold in the tournaments history.

Look for Final Tournament Standings and rankings soon.

Press Release from the USA Hockey website: www.usahockey.com

From Saskatoon, Saskatchewan: John Carlson scored twice including the game winner goal in overtime, as the U.S. Junior National Team defeated Canada, 6-5, to win gold at the 2010 IIHF World Junior Championship.

Following a pad save by Jack Campbell, Team USA skated up ice on a 3 on 1 rush odd man rush. Carlson glided in on the wing and fired a quick snap shot past goalie Martin Jones for the championship winning tally.

"We put the right team together for this tournament, filled with gritty, hard working players. Said Head Coach Dean Blais, head coach of the U.S. Junior National Team. "Our guys battled the whole tournament, and we're very happy to come away with the gold here in Saskatoon."

Canada took an 1-0 early lead on a backhanded goal by Luke Adam two minutes into the game. Team USA responded with back to back goals later in the period. However, Chris Kreider fired a wrist shot from the left circle over the glove of Canada starting goalie Jake Allen 14 minutes into the period. Then just 30 seconds later, Jordan Schroeder gave Team USA a lead with a wrist shot high to the short side.

After Canada tied the game to end the first period, Team USA regained the lead one minute into the 2nd period on the power play. Carlson let go a long slap shot from the point that beat Allen low the stick side. But Canada anwersed again once again, knotting the score, 3-3 after two periods.

Team USA took its third lead of the night four minutes into the final period. Captain Derek Stepan broke into the Canada Zone on a two on one break and fed Jerry D'Amigo who gave the U.S.A. a 4-3 edge. Stepan then extended his teams lead to 5-3, flicking a backhanded shot into the net after Allen failed to handle a long shot cleanly.

Canada scored twice in the period's final 3 minutes, including once on the power play, to send the game into OT. But Team USA emerged with the victory, the 2nd ever gold medal for the U.S. in the WJC Tournament History.

Campbell earned the win, turning aside 32 of 34 shots faced in just 40 minutes of play after relieving Mike Lee in the 2nd period. Meanwhile, Jones took the loss, making eight saves after replacing Allen in the 3rd period.

NOTES: Derek Stepan finished as the tournament leading point getter with 15 (5G 10A) was named Team USA's Player of the game. With 15 points, Stepan tied Mike Modano (1989) for the third most points ever scored by a U.S. Player at a World Junior Championships. Stepan's 10 assists tied Phil Kessel (2006) for 2nd most in U.S. Tournament history. Stepan and John Carlson were named to the Tournament's Media All Star Team. Team USA's other gold medal at a World Junior Championship came in 2004, when the U.S.A defeated Canada, 4-3, in Helsinki, Finland. The Gold Medal marks Team USA sixth overall medal at the tournament since 1977. Sweden defeated Switzerland earlier today, 11-4, to claim the Bronze Medal. For Full Tournament Stats, visit www.iihf.com For Full Coverage of the 2010 US National Junior Team, including photots, videos and features, click onto www.usahockey.com


Game Summary

U.S.A 6 Canada 5 (OT) (2-2, 1-1, 2-2, 1-0)

0-1 CAN Adam (Caron) 2:40 1st

1-1 USA Kreider (Palmieri, Jenks) 13:56 1st

2-1 USA Schroeder (Bourque, Donovan) 14:32 1st

2-2 CAN Nemisz (Kennedy, Hall) 16:03 1st

3-2 USA Carlson (Kristo, Mcrea) 1:03 2nd

3-3 CAN Hall (Adam) 3:56 2nd

4-3 USA D'Amigo (Stepan, Kristo) 4:12 3rd

5-3 USA Stepan (D'Amigo) 6:23 3rd

5-4 CAN Eberle (Pietrangelo, Hall) 17:11 3rd

5-5 CAN Eberle (Ellis, Kadri) 18:25 3rd

6-5 USA Carlson (Ramage) 4:31 OT


Shots on Goal:

U.S.A. 13-12-8-4 37
Canada 5-14-19-3 41

Goaltenders

USA, Lee 23:56 5-3, 2-1, NG, NG 7-4
USA, Campbell 40:35 NG, 12-12, 19-17, 3-3 34-32

CAN, Allen 46:23 13-11, 12-11, 3-1, NG 28-23
CAN, Jones 18:08 NG, NG, 5-5, 4-3 9-8

Power Play: USA 1/3, CAN 1/3

Penalty Min.: USA 3/6, CAN 4/16

Attendance: 15,171

Huge 3rd period sends USA To WJC Final against Canada

The Americans will get a chance at revenge and a gold medal after a huge 3rd period helped them pull away from a tough Sweden team and get to a date with Canada for a shot at ending Canada's 5 year Gold Medal Streak in the World Junior Championship. The game tomorrow night will start at 8:00 PM EST/7:00 PM CST on the NHL Network and on www.fasthockey.com.

As for the Bronze Medal Game, it will be Sweden playing this year's big surprise in Switzerland where after a slow start, have really come on with important wins over Slovakia and Latvia to get them into the QF's before pulling off arguably the biggest upset this year against Russia back on Saturday night.

Just like the first game back on New Years Eve, the Final should be even better and I'm making a call right now that it will be close and the USA will win the WJC and end Canada's WJC Gold Medal Streak. However, they need to work on the PP where a huge 5 minute power play early int he 3rd period went basically no where and could have been a big game changer early on in the 3rd.

Press Release from the USA Hockey. www.usahockey.com

Jerry D'Amigo scored twice including a 3rd period shorthanded goal, as the U.S. Junior National team beat Sweden 5-2, in the semifinals of the 2010 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship. The USA will face Canada for the Gold Medal game on January 5 at 7:00 PM CST (8:00 PM EST) at the Credit Union Center in Saskatoon.

"We've gotten better every game of the tournament," said Den Blais, head coach of the U.S.A. National Junior Team. "We worked really hard tonight, and we put ourselves right in the position we wanted to be.

Team USA scored the lone goal of the 1st period less then 2 minutes into the game. Kyle Palmieri fed Tyler Johnson in the slot, who sent a shot high past Sweden goalie Jacob Markstrom.

Sweden took a 2-1 lead in the 2nd period thanks to a pair of goals by Anton Lander. But D'Amigo tied the game with 5 minutes remaining in the frame by chipping the puck off the boards to himself in the neutral zone. racing towards the net and beating Markston between the pads 5 hole to tie it at 2-2.

Team USA regained the lead with 12 minutes into the 3rd period with John Carlson long slap shot trickled past Markstrom and over the goal line. Then, while killing a penalty, the U.S. and D'Amigo struck again. Team USA's player of the game took a pass from captain Derek Stepan on a two on one break and shot a wrister over Markstrom's shoulder.

AJ Jenks tallied a last minute empty net goal to put the game out of reach. Mike Lee earned his 4th victory of the tournament, stopping 27 saves in the win. Swedish Goalie Markstrom stopped 29 saves in the loss.

Team USA's gold Medal game against Canada can be seen live in the U.S. on the NHL Network and live streaming on www.fasthockey.com

NOTES: The U.S. is returning to the gold medal game of the World Junior Championships for the 3rd time. Team USA is 1-1 in previous gold medal games. The U.S. won it's only gold Medal in 2004 against Canada. Team USA is only the third team ever to emerge from the Quarterfinal Round to emerge in the World Junior Championship Gold Medal Game. Derek Stepan leads all skaters with 12 points including 9 assists. The 2010 IIHF World Junior Championship runs December 26-January 5 in Regina and Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. For Team USA full schedule results, click on www.usahockey.com/world_junior_championships_2010/default.aspx?NAV=AF_04&ID=263322 The NHL Network and www.fasthockey.com will air every USA game live from Saskatoon. Canada defeated Switzerland, 6-1, in the other semifinal game. For Complete Results and stats from the entire tournament, log on to www.iihf.com For Full Coverage of the 2010 U.S.A. Junior National Team, including photos, videos and features. log on to www.usahockey.com


Game Summary

USA 5 Sweden 2 (1-0, 1-2, 3-0)

1st Period: 1, USA, Johnson (Palmieri), 1:24

2nd Period: 2, SWE, Landler (Rodin, Andersson) 4:17; 3, SWE Landler (Rodin, Silfverberg), 12:17; 4, USA D'Amigo (Carlson, Gardiner) 15:06

3rd Period: 5, USA Carlson (Morin) 12:34; 6, USA D'Amigo (Stepan) 15:32 (SH); 7, USA, Jenks (Morin) 19:05 (EN)


Shots by Period

USA 11, 15, 8 34
SWE 8,11,10 29


Goaltenders

USA, Lee 8-8, 11-9, 10-10 29-27

SWE, Markstrom 11-10, 15-14, 7-5 33-29


Power Play: USA 0/5 SWE 0/3
Penalties: USA 4-8, SWE 6-35
Attendance: 12.137

WJC Quarterfinal Preview: USA VS. Finland & Russia VS. Switzerland

Here's a look at what to expect later on today for the WJC Quarterfinals as we begin the knockout round brackets today.

For the USA, they have had a tendency to let down after big loses, the last 2 years especially. In the 2008 tournament, after going unbeaten in group play, the USA had a huge loss to Canada in the semifinals where the team never looked the same as they struggled against Russia to claim the Bronze Medal Game. Team USA later lossed that game to finish 4th that year.

Then last year, it was a loss against Canada in the final Group Stage game where they entered the Quarterfinal where Slovakia pulled off one of the biggest upsets in recent WJC memory where the Slovaks went on to almost beat Sweden in the Semifinal. Today, they will play Finland where they coming off a 7-1 thrashing of Sweden where despite the loss, they were still able to finish 3rd in Group B ahead of the Czech Republic to avoid being in the relegation round for the 2nd straight year.

About Finland

The Finns have a strong team that will throw everything it can towards team USA Goalie Jack Campbell. The trouble for the Finns has been getting the puck in the net where they are tied for 2nd in the tournament with 185 shots, but is converting only at a 8.11 scoring precent which is just 15 goals.

This failure could have turned losses against Sweden and Russia to wins. Against Group Winner Sweden, Finland out shot their rivals 26-3 in the first period, but didn't score. In fact, the Swedes scored the only goal of the period which eventually lead to a 7-1 win.

Expect the Finnish Offense to throw every shot possible here in this game tonight.

About Russia VS. Switzerland

Switzerland will play in the afternoon game today at 4:00 PM before the USA VS. Finland Game. The winner will play Canada in tomorrow's Semifinal. Switzerland is the heavy underdog here, but they have played much better since the USA Game back on December 27.

A strong top line, a great goaltender and have all the ingredients to rock the boat. Can they have enough to upset the Russians, my pick is no. It will be Sweden VS. USA & Canada VS. Russia as the top 4 Junior Teams in the World will round out the tournament to play for the Medals on January 5.

Relegation Round

It just became final just a little while ago as Slovakia improved their chances of staying in the WJC for 2011 as the Slovaks beat Austria 3-2 to put them in front of the relegation Round Standings with 6 points while Austria despite it's best game of the tournament faces relegation as they have no points and a -7 GD in the relegation round in this game and in the game against the Czech Republic where they lost 7-1.

Tomorrow, it will be Czech Republic VS. Latvia at 12:00 Noon in Saskatoon as a Czech Win would send both Latvia and Austria down to the 2011 U20 Division 1 Tournament.

12/31: USA Gets Edged in SO

The USA ended the Group Stage of the WJC with a game against Cross Border Rival's Canada for the top spot in Group A and an automatic spot in the Semifinals. After going up 4-2 late in the 2nd period, the USA seemed to be in control until Canada goals by Eberle and Pietrangelo helped the Canadians tie the game before Kozun clinched it in the SO.

Press Release from the USA Hockey Website. www.usahockey.com

The U.S. Junior National Team scored two shorthanded goals but fell to Canada, 5-4, in a shootout in it's final prelim round game of the 2010 IIHF World Junior Championship. The US (3-0-1-0) will face Finland in the Quarterfinals on Saturday at 8:00 PM.

"Tonight was a great hockey game for these 2 countries," said Dean Blais, head coach of the U.S. National Junior Team. "It's tough to lose when a game goes to a shootout like tonight. But I thought both teams played great.

Team USA answered an early Canada goal with a power play goal 4 minutes into the opening frame. Phillip Macrea collected a rebound in front of the net and buried a quick wrist shot passed Canada goalie Jake Allen to tie the game 1-1.

The USA took a 2-1 2nd period lead while shorthanded. Tyler Johnson stripped a Canada Forward in the defensive zone and fed a streaking Jordan Schroeder at center ice. Schroeder fired a shot through Allen's pads for his 2nd goal of the tournament.

Following Canada's 2nd goal of the night, team USA regained the lead with 11 seconds left in the 2nd period. Shorthanded once again, Jerry D'Amigo broke in on a 2 on 1 rush and fired a shot on net. Johnson battled in the rebound to give the U.S. a 3-2 advantage.

Just one minute into the third period, Team USA took a 4-2 lead when Danny Kristo cut to the net, deked and beat Allen down low. But Canada tied the score with goals from Jordan Eberle and Alex Pietrangelo, sending the game into Overtime.

A scoreless extra frame sent both teams into a shootout. Despite goals by Team USA's Kristo and Jeremy Morin, Canada connected on all three shootout chances to come away with the victory. Canada, which received a bye into the semifinal, will await the winner of the Russia VS. Switzerland Quarterfinal game.

Team USA Goalie Jack Campbell turned aside 30 shots in the shootout defeat, while Allen made 24 saves in the victory. Team USA's Quarterfinal game will be against Finland can be seen in the USA on NHL Network and on www.FASTHockey.com

NOTES: Tyler Johnson was named Team USA's Player of the game. The 2010 IIHF World Junior Championships runs December 26 thru Jan. 5 in Saskatoon and Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada. The NHL Network and www.fasthockey.com will every U.S. Game live from Saskatoon. In other tournament action Sweden beat Finland 7-1, to win Group B. Switzerland beat Slovakia 4-1, to advance to the Quarterfinals; and Russia knocked off the Czech Republic 5-2 to secure 2nd place in Group B. For complete results and stats from the tournament, visit www.iihf.com


Game Summary

Canada 5 U.S.A. 4 (1-1, 1-2, 2-1, 0-0, 1-0)

1st Period: 1, CAN, Della-Rovere (Adam, Caron), 2:03; 2, USA, Macrae (D'Amigo), 3:40.

2nd Period: 3, USA, Schroeder (Johnson), 7:08 (SH); 4, CAN, Eberle (Schenn, Scandella), 11:15, 5, Johnson (D'Amigo), 19:49 (SH)

3rd Period: 6, Kristo (Stepan), 1:01; 7, CAN, Eberle (Schenn, Mcmillan) 10:03; 8,CAN Pietrangelo (Unassisted), 15:45 (SH)

OT: No Scoring

SO: CAN, Eberle (Goal), USA, Kristo (Goal), CAN, Kadri (Goal), USA Morin (Goal), CAN Kozun (Goal), USA Schroeder (No Goal)

Shots on Goal

CAN: 10-9-9-6-1 35
USA: 9-11-7-1-0 28

Goaltenders

CAN, Allen 9-8, 11-9, 7-6, 1-1, 0-0 28-24
USA, Campbell 10-9, 9-8, 9-7, 6-6, 1-0 35-30

Power Play: CAN 0/6, USA 1/4
Penalties: CAN 4-8, USA 6-12
Att: 15,171

2010 World Junior Championship Knockout and Releguation Rounds

As we appoarch the End of the Group Stage. We are starting to set the stage for the Knockout Rounds as we march towards the 2010 World Junior Championship and who half to survive to keep their spot for the WJC 2011 in Buffalo, N.Y. next year. So far, we know that USA, Canada and Sweden have officaly clinched spots at least in the Quarterfinals and have a shot getting the automatic semifinals spots which will gurantee them a spot in the Medal Round on the final day of the WJC on January 5.

In the QF's, the 2nd and 3rd place teams will cross over and will play a single elinmation game where winners will play the group winners in the Semifinals. After that, the QF Losers will head to the 5th Place Game which is used for World Ranking and Seeding Purproses for next year's event in New York State.

Then the SF Losers will play each other for the Bronze Medal while the Winners will play for the Gold Medal next Saturday. Canada has won the Gold Medal at this level 5 straight years while their biggest rivals (Esp. the USA & Sweden) will look to knock them off. The USA was the last team to win the WJC Gold back in 2004 when the event was held in Finland.

For the Releguation Round, the 4th and 5th place teams will battle to survive to keep their spots for next year. Each team will play the 2 teams from the other group while the Game between the 2 releguated round teams will transfer over from the Group Stage. The 1st and 2nd place teams will finish 7th and 8th overall and will stay in this tournament for next season.

While the 3rd and 4th place teams will finish 9th and 10th overall and will be sent down to the 2011 WJC Division 1 Tournament for next year. So far, Latvia and Austria have been guranteed Relegation Round Spots while the loser of Switzerland VS. Slovakia game tomorrow and the 4th place team between Czech Republic and Finland will be battaling to keep their spot.

Relegation Round

1/2: Slovakia 3 Austria 2 (2-0, 0-2, 1-0)

1/3: Czech Republic 10 Latvia 2 (5-0, 2-2, 3-0)

1/4: Czech Republic VS. Slovakia 12:00 PM

1/4: Austria VS. Latvia 4:00 PM

Relegation Round Standings

1. Czech Republic 2-0-0-0 6 PTS 17-3

2. Slovakia 2-0-0-0 6 PTS 11-5

3. Austria 0-0-0-2 0 PTS 3-11

4. Austria 0-0-0-1 0 PTS 1-7

Czech Republic & Slovakia have kept their spot for the 2011 WJC in Buffalo

Austria & Latvia have been relegated to the 2011 U20 Division 1 Tournament

Quarterfinals

1/2: Russia 2 Switzerland 3 (OT) (0-0, 2-1, 0-1, 0-1)

1/2: U.S.A. 6 Finland 2 (2-0, 1-1, 3-1)

If Canada plays in the Quarterfinals, They will play at 4:00 PM.

If Canada reaches the Semifinals, Then the 2B VS. 3A Game will be changed to 4:00 PM will allow for Equal Rest for the teams before the Semifinals.

Semifinals

1/3: Canada 6 Switzerland 1 (1-0, 2-1, 3-0)

1/3: Sweden 2 U.S.A. 5 (0-1, 2-1, 0-3)


5th Place Game

1/4: Russia VS. Finland 8:00 PM


Bronze Medal Game

1/5: Switzerland VS. Sweden 3:00 PM


Gold Medal Game

1/5: Canada VS. U.S.A. 7:00 PM

USA VS. Switzerland, 12/27

After a 7-3 comeback win over the Slovakia, the USA kept the good start to Group A going with a 3-0 shutout win over Switzerland in their tournament opener as the Americans look stay unbeaten in anticipation with the New Year's Eve Matchup against Canada in the final game of the Group Stage.

Press Release from USA Hockey

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan: Jack Campbell stopped all 22 shots faced, as the U.S. National Junior Team shut out Switzerland, 3-0, in it's 2nd game of the IIHF World Junior Championship Game. The U.S. improved to 2-0-0-0, with two games remaining in the tournament's preliminary round.

"I thought we stuck to our game plan and eventually wore them down," said Dean Blais, head coach of the the USA National Junior Team. "Both goaltenders played extremely well. I thought Jack really made some key saves in the first period to keep the game scoreless.

Campbell started strong between the pipes, turning aside a pair of Swiss breakaway attempts and helping Team USA kill a two man advantage in the opening frame.

The U.S. grabbed a 1-0 lead six minutes into the 2nd period on it's first power play of the game. Chris Kreider redirected a Cam Fowler slap shot under the Swiss goalie Benjamin Conz for his first tally of the tournament.

Team USA sealed its victory with a pair of third period goals. Matt Donovan scored his 2nd goal of the tournament with seven and a half minutes remaining after collecting a pass from Ryan Bourque and beating Conz low to the stick side. A.J. Jenks tally four minutes later to complete the scoring.

Next action for Team USA comes Tuesday (Dec. 29) at 3 PM CST against Latvia. The game can be seen live in the U.S. on the NHL Network. It will also be streamed live in the U.S. on fasthockey.com

NOTES: Chris Kreider was named Team USA's player of the Game. Nine Players have combined to score USA's 10 goals to date in the tournament. The 2010 IIHF World Junior Championships run Dec. 26 thru Jan 5. in Regina and Saskatoon, Sask, for Team USA's Full Schedule, click here. The NHL Network (U.S.) and fasthockey.com will air every U.S. game live from Saskatoon. In other Tournament Action, Sweden defeated Austria, 7-3, while the Czech Republic will take on Finland and Slovakia will take on Latvia later in the day. For Complete Results and stats from the tournament, visit www.iihf.com for full coverage of the 2010 U.S. National Junior Team, including photos, videos and features click here.


Game Summary

Switzerland 0 U.S.A. 3 (0-0, 0-1, 0-2)

1st Period: No Scoring

2nd Period: 4, USA Kreider (Fowler, Stepan), 5:57 (PP)

3rd Period: 2, USA, Donovan (Bourque, Palmieri), 12:35; 3, Jenks (Warsofsky, Morin)


Shots By Period

Switzerland 14-5-3 22
U.S.A. 11-23-15 49


Goaltenders (SH, SV)

Switzerland, Conz 11-11 23-22 15-13 49-46
U.S.A., Campbell 14-14 5-5 3-3 22-22


Power Play: SUI 0/3 USA 1/5
Penalties: SUI 5 PEN/10 PIM USA 3 PEN/6 PIM
Attendance: 12,853

USA VS. Slovakia 12/26

Despite a bad start, the Americans came back to prove that they want to end a 2 year Medal Drought in the WJC with a 7-3 win over the Slovaks who are looking prove that last year's 4th place finish was no fluke.

Press Release from USA Hockey!

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan: Team USA overcame an early two goal deficit and defeated Slovakia by a count of 7-3 here tonight in its first game at the 2010 International Ice Hockey Federation World Junior Championship.

"I was happy with our resiliency after falling behind early," said Dean Blais, head coach of the U.S. National Junior Team. "We created a lot of scoring chances, and showed a lot of poise after those two quick goals.

Slovakia est. a 2-0 lead just more then 5 minutes into the contest with a pair of power play goals.

Team USA Cut the Slovakia lead in half midway through the period when John Carlson fired a slap shot through the traffic and past goalie Marek Ciliak. Then just, two minutes into the 2nd period, Jeremy Morin knotted the score at 2-2 when he drove to the net, collected his own rebound and fired a shot over Ciliak's glove.

U.S. captain Derek Stepan gave Team USA the lead when he fired a shot from the slot past Ciliak five minutes into the middle frame. The U.S. took a 4-2 lead when Matt Donovan shot from the high slot found the back of the net.

Following a Slovakia power play goal, Danny Kristo restored Team USA's two goal lead heading into the 3rd period when he buried a post to post pass from Stepan.

Jordan Schroeder extended Team USA's advantage to 6-3, chipping a centering pass from Kyle Palmieri over Ciliak blocker less then a minute into the 3rd period. Jerry D'Amigo who was named Team USA's player of the game, completed the night's scoring on a give and go play with Kristo.

Team USA's goalie Mike Lee turned aside 17 shots in the win, while Ciliak stopped 39 saves in the losing effort.

Next action for Team USA comes tomorrow (Dec. 27) at 3 PM CST against Switzerland. The game can be seen live in the U.S.A. on the NHL Network. It will also be streamed live in the U.S. on the website www.fasthockey.com

NOTES: Team USA won it's first game of the World Junior Championship for the third straight year and the sixth time in 7 years. The 2010 IIHF World Junior Championships runs Dec. 26 thru Jan. 5 in Regina and Saskatoon, Sask. For Team USA's full schedule, click Here. The NHL Network and fasthockey.com will air every U.S.A. Game live from Saskatoon. For Complete Results and stats from the World Juniors, visit www.iihf.com For Full coverage of the 2010 U.S. National Junior Team, including photos, video and features, click here.


Game Summary

Score by Period

U.S.A. 7 Slovakia 3 (1-2, 4-1, 2-0)

1st Period: Scoring: 1, SVK Gasparovic (Illo) 2:15 (PP); 2, SVK Bakos (Illo, Marincin), 5:33 (PP); 3, USA, Carlson (Stepan), 9:34

2nd Period: Scoring: 4, USA, Morin (Unassisted), 2:50; 5, D'Amigo (Carlson, Stefan), 5:39, 6, USA, Donovan (Kreider, Fowler), 6:36 (PP); 7, SVK, Panik (Siska, Viedensky), 13:14 (PP), 8 USA, Kristo (Stepan, D'Amigo), 13:54

3rd Period: Scoring: 9, USA, Schroeder (Palmieri), 0:58; 10, USA, D'Amigo (Kristo), 6:34


Shots on Goal

USA 11-16-19 46
Slovakia 9-7-4 20


Goalies

USA, Lee 9-7, 7-6, 4-4 20-17
SVK, Ciliak 11-10, 16-12, 19-17 46-39

World Junior Championship Update

We are 2 days into the World Junior Championships in Saskatchewan and the Americans have won both games so far into the tournament where the USA came back from a bad start against Slovakia to come back to win big 7-3 over the Slovaks, then yesterday, the USA had their way against Switzerland with a 3-0 shutout win that got the team to 2-0 overall.

Elsewhere, the first day was a full for blowouts the opening day saw 2 double digit as the tournament favorites Canada took out Latvia 16-0 while Sweden beat the Czechs 10-1, in addition, last year's Bronze Medalist Russia took down Austria 6-2 in their opening game.

Today we will reach the midway point of the group stage with 2 games. Tournament Host Canada will take on Switzerland whose looking to come back after a loss yesterday while the Fins have some things to figure out, where after a 3-0 lead in the 2nd period, the Fins allowed the Czech Republic got a late goal in the 2nd period. Then the Czech Republic scored 3 times in the 3rd including Sami Vatanen for plays for JYP Jyvaskyla in Finland's SM Liiga and is also a recent draft pick of the Anaheim Ducks helped the Czechs comeback to beat the Fins.

The Czechs are dealing with major injury problems this year and with having the smallest roster in terms of number of players this year, that win could be huge towards attempting to get them through to the Knockout rounds of the tournament after New Years.

If the Czechs want to prove that the comeback was no fluke, they need to control an Austrian team that is just looking to avoid being relegated this season after scoring just 5 goals so far in their first two games.

Look for a Standings update after today's games between Canada VS. Switzerland then later today it's Finland VS. Russia.

Tomorrow is the Final Day of the Group Stage which will lead up to the Final game of the day where the USA VS. Canada will determine the Automatic Semifinal Spot in Group A. But first, a critcal game between Switzerland and Slovakia will determine the 3rd and final QF Spot out of Group A.

While in Group B, we have the Scandevindal Rivals Sweden and Finland where a Sweden Win will clinch Group B and the Automatic Semifinal Spot, for Finland, they need this to improve their chances of a Quarterfinal Spot while any slip up, even in OT will open the door for the Czech Republic to sneak in and force Finland to the Relguation Round for the 2nd straight year.

In a tournament where they have been few upsets and everything for the most part has gone to plan, this is where the WJC usually kicks into high gear as we get ready for the knockout rounds and the relegutation where it will determine who will keep their spots for the 2010-2011 season and who will be sent down to Division 1 next year. As for the 2 promoted teams, it will be Germany and Norway that will be bumped up for next season.

Tournament Standings

Group A

1. Canada 3-1-0-0 11 PTS 35-6

2. U.S.A. 3-0-1-0 10 PTS 26-9

3. Switzerland 2-0-0-2 6 PTS 17-11

4. Slovakia 1-0-0-3 3 PTS 8-18

5. Latvia 0-0-0-4 0 PTS 9-43

Group B

1. Sweden 4-0-0-0 12 PTS 28-6

2. Russia 3-0-0-1 9 PTS 14-8

3. Finland 1-0-0-3 3 PTS 15-13

4. Czech Rep. 1-0-0-3 3 PTS 13-20

5. Austria 0-0-0-4 0 PTS 7-30

Sweden & Canada have advanced to the Semifinals

The Quarterfinals will be USA VS. Finland & Russia VS. Switzerland

Slovakia, Latvia, Czech Republic & Austria will play in the Releguation Round

Slovakia and Czech Republic will enter the Releguation Round with 3 points while Austria and Latvia will have 0 points.

Here's the scores from the first 2 days of the Tournament.

12/26

Czech Republic 1 Sweden 10 (0-4, 1-2, 0-4)

Latvia 0 Canada 16 (0-5, 0-6, 0-5)

Russia 6 Austria 2 (4-1, 1-1, 1-0)

Slovakia 3 U.S.A. 7 (2-1, 1-4, 0-2)


12/27

Austria 3 Sweden 7 (0-2, 3-2, 0-3)

U.S.A. 3 Switzerland 0 (0-0, 1-0, 2-0)

Czech Republic 3 Finland 4 (2-0, 1-1, 0-3)

Slovakia 8 Latvia 3 (5-0, 2-2, 1-1)


Here's the schedule for the rest of the Group Stage!

12/28

Canada 6 Switzerland 0 (2-0, 3-0, 1-0)

Finland 0 Russia 2 (0-1, 0-1, 0-0)

12/29

Austria 1 Czech Republic 7 (1-1, 0-3, 0-3)

Latvia 1 U.S.A. 12 (0-6, 1-1, 0-5)

Sweden 4 Russia 1 (2-0, 1-1, 1-0)

Canada 8 Slovakia 2 (3-0, 4-1, 1-1)


12/30

Finland 10 Austria 1 (5-0, 3-1, 2-0)

Switzerland 7 Latvia 5 (2-3, 1-1, 4-1)


12/31

Sweden 7 Finland 1 (1-0, 3-0, 3-1)

Switzerland 4 Slovakia 1 (0-0, 1-0, 3-1)

Russia 5 Czech Republic 2 (1-0, 1-1, 3-1)

U.S.A. 4 Canada 5 (SO) (1-1, 2-1, 1-2, 0-0, 0-1)

Trying something new with the scores

After a couple of months of putting the weekly schedules and putting the updates scores from the Professional Ranks (NHL, AHL, CHL), the Major Juniors (WHL, OHL, QMJHL), the NCAA and the top 2 US Junior Leagues (USHL & NAHL). Starting next week, i'm going to post the scores on a daily basis ever morning so, they can get more exposure and put some links like game summary's and stories from different websites.

I'm doing this so our readers can more informed and know what's going on better and on a more critical basis. This should make it easier to cover, especially when we get to international events like the WJC and Olympic Tournaments coming up. And All Star Games which will get to during the mid point of the season.

Here's an example from last night's action.

I will still post the weekly schedule, but it will just provide as a schedule and nothing else now.

December 8

Professional Scores

National Hockey League

NY Islanders 2 Philadelphia Flyers 6 (0-2, 2-3, 0-1)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009020438

Montreal Canadiens 4 Ottawa Senators 1 (1-0, 1-1, 2-0)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009020439

Vancouver Canucks 2 Nashville Predators 4 (0-1, 1-1, 1-2)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009020440

Dallas Stars 3 Anaheim Ducks 4 (OT) (2-0, 1-1, 0-2, 0-1)
www.nhl.com/ice/gamecenter.htm?id=2009020441


Central Hockey League

Corpus Christi Icerayz 3 Laredo Bucks 4 (SO) (2-1, 0-2, 1-0, 0-0, 0-1)
www.pointstreak.com/stats/pro/boxscore.html?gameid=1067576

Rapid City Rush 9 Missouri Mavericks 2 (2-1, 3-1, 4-0)
www.pointstreak.com/stats/pro/boxscore.html?gameid=1067577


Major Junior

Western Hockey League

Kelowna Rockets 3 Swift Current Broncos 2 (2-0, 0-1, 1-1)
http://whl.ca/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1006486

Prince George Cougars 0 Spokane Chiefs 3 (0-2, 0-0, 0-1)
http://whl.ca/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1006485

Portland Winterhawks 4 Everett Silvertips 3 (OT) (0-1, 3-2, 0-0, 1-0)
http://whl.ca/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1006484


Ontario Hockey League

Guelph Storm 2 Kitchener Rangers 5 (1-2, 1-3, 0-0)
www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=16287


Quebec Major Junior Hockey League

Moncton Wildcats 3 P.E.I. Rockets 0 (2-0, 1-0, 0-0)
www.lhjmq.qc.ca/lang_en/index.php?page=342374&id_partie=20516

Acadie-Bathurst Titans 5 Rouyn-Nornda Huskies 4 (3-1, 2-2, 0-1)
www.lhjmq.qc.ca/lang_en/index.php?page=342374&id_partie=20517


NCAA

Non Conference

American Int. 2 Brown 5 (2-4, 0-0, 0-1)
www.uscho.com/box/?date=20091208&vis=aic&home=bn&gender=m


U.S.A. Juniors

North American Hockey League

Alaska Avalanche 5 Kenai River Brown Bears 2 (0-0, 1-1, 4-1)
www.pointstreak.com/stats/pro/boxscore.html?gameid=1068308

Latvia and Switzerland WJC Rosters

Here's a look at the prelim rosters for the Latvia and Switzerland teams for the upcoming World Junior Hockey Championships.

Latvia

Latvia barearly escaped relegation last year with a winless first round last year. A big turnaround in the relegation round with 7-1 wins over Germany and Kazakhstan helped them stay up in the Top Division while sending Germany and Kazakhstan down to this year's U20 Division 1 Tournament. Several strong players that play outside of Latvia make up the team include 2 USA Based goalies in Ermics Raimonds and Vasilijevs Dainis who both play in the US Junior Leagues.

Elsewhere on the forwards, a group of players that play for Dinamo Junior's include Roberts Bukarts that play for Latvia's top team in Dinamo Riga that play in the KHL and numerous players that play for the Dinamo Junior Team which is in the Belarus League, other national repsertented include a player for Switzerland in Kennis Rolands, Leitans Edijs who plays for the Sudbury Wolves of the OHL. In all, 30 players will be looking to make the roster and a good crop of them that plays for Dinamo Junior's which is in the top Belarus league.

For Latvia, the passion of the national team is huge, but with the size of the nation. Their goal is to simply avoid relegation. It's always a tough task and it's even going to be harder with them playing Canada in the opening game.

Latvia Roster

Goalies

Vasiljvs Dainis, USA

Ermics Raimonds, USA

Kalnins Janis, Liepajas Metalurgs

Gudlevskis Kristers, Ozolnieki-Juniors


Defensemen

Alberts LLisko, Sweden

Janis Smits, Sweden

Janis Bullitis, Dinamo Juniors (LAT, BLR Extraliga)

Ralfs Freibergs, Dinamo Juniors (LAT, BLR Extraliga)

Karlis Kalvitis, USA

Rolands Gritans

Martins Jakovlevs, Dinamo Juniors (LAT, BLR Extraliga)

Eriks Sevcenko, Dinamo Juniors (LAT, BLR Extraliga)

Kauss Gvido, Dinamo Juniors (LAT, BLR Extraliga)

Martins Porejs, Dinamo Juniors (LAT, BLR Extraliga)


Forwards

Roberts Bukarts, Dinamo Riga (LAT, KHL)

Rolands Vignrs, France

Raimonds Vilkoits, Dinamo Juniors (LAT, BLR Extraliga)

Gunars Skvorcovs, Liepajas Metalurgs (LAT)

Arturs Mickvics, Liepajas Metalurgs (LAT)

Juris Upitis, Dinamo Juniors (LAT, BLR Extraliga)

Mikus Indrasis, Dinamo Juniors (LAT, BLR Extraliga)

Elvis Veldeze, Ozolnieki Juniors (LAT)

Maris Bicevskis, Dinamo Juniors (LAT, BLR Extraliga)

Kennis Rolands, Switzerland

Vladimirs Borovkovs, Dinamo Juniors (LAT, BLR Extraliga)

Rolands Cinks, Dinamo Riga (LAT, KHL)

Edgars Ulescenko, Kladno Praga

Leitans Edijs, Sudbury Wolves (OHL)

Elvijs Biezais, Dinamo Juniors (LAT, BLR Extraliga)


Switzerland

For Switzerland, they back up in the top level after winning promotion in the U20 Division 1 Tournament by winning all 5 games against Belarus, France, Slovenia, Poland and Estonia by scoring 31 goals in the 5 games and are looking to get the Swiss Junior Teams like the Senior teams where they have been a regular in the major events for about a decade now. After being relegated in 2008 when the tournament was in Czech Republic, the Swiss went winless in the 1st round, a lone win against Denmark wasen't enough to keep them from droping down the Division 1.

Just like most teams, the roster will have around 30 players to eventullay cut down to normal roster of 20-23 players before leaving for Saskatchewan, Canada for the World Juniors which start's up on December 27 where Switzerland will open up the tournament on December 27 against the U.S.A.

For a majority of the players, the Swiss roster is coming from the top 2 leagues in Switzerland. The NLA which is the top league in the country and the NLB which is the 2nd division.


Switzerland Roster

Goalies

Benjamin Conz, HC Geneve-Servette (SUI, NLA)

Matthias Mischler, SC Bern Futures (SUI, NLA)

Remo Trub, GCK Lions (SUI, NLB)

Sandro Zurkirchen, EV Zug (SUI, NLA)


Defensemen

Luca Camperchioli, GCK Lions (SUI, NLB)

Giacomo Casserini, Ambri-Piotta (SUI, NLA)

Kevin Fey, HC Ajoie (SUI)

Jannik Fischer, EV Zug (SUI, NLA)

Patrick Geering, ZSC Lions (SUI, NLA)

Roman Josi, SC Bern (SUI, NLA)

Luca Sbisa, Lethbridge Hurricanes (WHL)

Dominik Schlumpf, Shawinigan Cataractes (QMJHL)

Lukas Stoop, HC Davos (SUI, NLA)

Ramon Untersander, HC Davos (SUI, NLA)


Forwards

Benjamin Antonietti, HC Geneve-Servette (SUI, NLA)

Chris Baltisberger, GCK Lions (SUI, NLB)

Oliver Baur, HC La Chaux-de-Fonds (SUI, NLB)

Alain Berger, Oshawa Generals (OHL)

Nils Berger, Innisfil Lakers (GMHL)

Jeffrey Fuglister, Kloten Flyers (SUI, NLA)

Nicolas Gay, EHC Basel (SUI, NLB)

Gaetan Haas, EHC Beil (SUI, NLA)

Mauro Jorg, HC Lugano (SUI, NLA)

Michael Loichat, EV Zug (SUI, NLA)

Pascal Marolf, EHC Basel (SUI, NLB)

Ryan Mc Gregor, GCK Lions (SUI, NLB)

Nino Niederreiter, Portland Winterhawks (WHL)

Inti Pestoni, HC Ambri-Piotta (SUI, NLA)

Sven Ryser, GCK Lions (SUI, NLB)

Reto Schappi, GCK Lions (SUI, NLB)

Tristan Scherwey, SC Bern (SUI, NLA)

Tim Weber, MODO Hockey (SWE, Elite League)

Chris Brown and Matt Donovan: Quest for the 2010 WJC

Here's a look at how Chris Brown and Matt Donovan did over the weekend as both players look to represent the Southwest at the World Junior Championships just after Christmas.



Chris Brown


The Michigan Wolverines split the weekend against Ohio State with a 5-3 loss back on Friday and then a 2-1 win back on Saturday. Brown looked very good in both games as a goal and an assist on Friday night as the Wolverines were able to keep up to keep up with the rival Ohio State Buckeyes as the 2nd period ended 2-2 with Chris Brown scoring to tie the game on a 4 on 4 goal with 5 minutes left in the 2nd period.



Then later in the 3rd, he assisted on Michigan's lone goal of the 3rd period on a 2 man advantage with 3 minutes left in the game to close the gap to 4-3. Unfortunately, the Buckeyes scored an Empty Netter goal in the final minute gave Ohio State a 5-3 win.



The next night, Brown assisted on both goals as the Wolverines scored both goals on the PP as Michigan beat Ohio State 2-1 as Michigan scored midway through the 1st period, then to make it 2-0 with a goal by Matt Rust in the opening minute of the 3rd period.



Overall, on a team that has been struggling all year long, Brown will need to play big time for Michigan as a majority of the attention as opponents will focus on him.



He also was named CCHA Offensive player of the week as he a goal and 3 assists over the weekend. Honors like this should get the attention of USA Hockey as the USA Hockey will look for standout players and performances as we get closer to December 26 and the pre Tournament Training Camp that will be in North Dakota from December 17-19.


On a team that going to be on the bottom end of the CCHA, Chris Brown is going to have to take his game even higher to have a shot at making the World Junior Team.



Friday



Boxscore: www.uscho.com/box/?date=20091204&vis=um&home=osu&gender=m



Game Recap: www.uscho.com/recaps/20092010/m/12/04/um-osu.php





Saturday



Boxscore: www.uscho.com/box/?date=20091205&vis=um&home=osu&gender=m



Game Recap: www.uscho.com/recaps/20092010/m/12/05/um-osu.php



Player of the Week: www.mgoblue.com/sports/m-hockey/spec-rel/120709aaa.html





Matt Donovan

The Pioneers of Denver has a win and a tie against in state rivals Colorado College as they won a defensive battle 2-1 back on Friday night as Denver were able to keep their lead in the WCHA over the weekend. Even though Donovan was kept scoreless he played a physical role in the 3rd period, to help protect Denver's lead in the 3rd period after Colorado College forward Nate Prosser scored to make it 2-1 early in the 3rd period. Most notability was the 6 on 4 in the final minute and a half to help protect the lead and the 2-1 win.

Then on Saturday, Matt Donovan had an assist on the first Rhett Rakhshani goal was scored the PP at the 12:52 mark of the 3rd period to help put up put Denver up 3-2 just after the midway point of the game. Being a defensemen, he's going to have to play very physical and will need to find a way to increase his scoring ability as he to compete with players like John Moore of the Kitchener Rangers, Cam Fowler of the Windsor Spitfires and Justin Faulk of the USNTDP.

With the lack of scoring threat from Donovan, he's going to need to have a strong physical presence and move the puck well to the forwards. Also, he's going to need to have the ability to block shots and steel some passes and maybe improve their play on the Special Teams as he point totals will be low, so improving his play in these areas is going to help him out with his chances.

Friday

Boxscore: www.uscho.com/box/?date=20091204&vis=du&home=cc&gender=m

Recap: www.uscho.com/recaps/20092010/m/12/04/du-cc.php

Saturday

Boxscore: www.uscho.com/box/?date=20091205&vis=cc&home=du&gender=m

Recap: www.uscho.com/recaps/20092010/m/12/05/cc-du.php

Sweden World Junior Prelim Roster

For Sweden, the last 2 years have been really close as they have lost to Canada in the Gold Medal Game at the World Juniors. The only time Sweden has ever won the U20 was back in 1981 when the tournament when they beat arch rival Finland when the tournament was held in West Germany.

Also unlike most of the teams that have a huge prelim roster that will include some cuts. Sweden is basically naming their team already so they can get to know each other and have more time to prepare for the tournament. In goal for Sweden is Jacob Markstrom was named last year's best goalie in the World Juniors in Ottawa, Ontario last season.

Currently not on the roster Erik Karlsson could be named later as the Ottawa Senators will get him released for the Championship as he was the best defender last season and has been getting bumped between the Ottawa Senators and their AHL Affiliate in Binghamton, N.Y.

So it could be a part of who he's with come tournament time on whatever or not he will join Sweden in Saskatchewan Canada later this month. Another defensemen that won't be with the team is Victor Hedman who was the #2 overall draft pick and is playing on a regular basis with the Tampa Bay Lighting. The Tampa Bay Head Coach has announced that he will not relase the young defensemen reguardless of who's on the roster.

Other surprises came when the Swedes decided not to bring up 3 of it's best players currently playing the Major Junior Leagues in Canada. These players were Robin Lehner (Sault St. Marie Greyhounds, OHL), Defensemen Alexander Urbom (Brandon Wheat Kings, WHL), and Forward Gabriel Landeskog (Kitchener Rangers, OHL).

A majority of the team will come from the Swedish Elite League

Goaltenders

Anders Nilsson, HF Lulea (SWE, Elite League)

Jacob Markstrom, Brynas Gavle (SWE, Elite League)


Defensemen

Luksa Kilstrom, SK Sodertalje (SWE, Elite League)

Olivier Ekman Larsson, IK Leksands (SWE, Elite League)

Adam Larsson, AIK Skelleftea (SWE, Elite League)

David Rundblad, AIK Skelleftea (SWE, Elite League)

Tim Erixon, AIK Skelleftea (SWE, Elite League)

Mattias Ekholm, IK Mora (SWE, Elite League)


Not Nominated Yet

Erik Karlsson, Ottawa Senators (NHL)

Simon Bertilsson, Brynas (SWE, Elite League)


Forwards

Mattias Tedenby, HV 71 Jonkoping (SWE, Elite League)

Jacob Josefsin, Djurgarden Stockholm (SWE, Elite League)

Marcus Johansson, Farjestad Karlstad (SWE, Elite League)

Dennis Rasmussen, VIK Vasteras (SWE, Elite League)

Jakob Silfverberg, Brynas Gavle (SWE, Elite League)

Anton Lander, IK Timra (SWE, Elite League)

Carl Klingberg, Frolunda Gothenburg (SWE, Elite League)

Anton Rodin, Brynas Gavle (SWE, Elite League)

Andre Petersson, HV 71 Jonkoping (SWE, Elite League)

Magnus Paajarvia Svensson, IK Timra (SWE, Elite League)

Marcus Kruger, Djurgarden Stockholm (SWE, Elite League)

Daniel Brodin, Djrugarden Stockholm (SWE, Elite League)

Martin Lundberg, AIK Skelleftea (SWE, Elite League)

Russia and Slovakia WJC Prelim Rosters

Russia

As we get closer to the tournament, look for the rosters of the European Teams as we get ready for the start of the World Juniors which begin on December 26.

In addidition to the USA and Canada, Russia and Slovakia have both reveled their prelim rosters for the WJC. For Russia, the last 2 years have finished in 3rd place as the Russians will take 33 players to a camp that will eventully be cut to 28 players for the final camp in the Moscow suburb of Novogorsk. Before the tournament starts, they have set up 2 pre tournament games against Switzerland and Latvia where 5 North America Based players will join them as well.

A majority of the team plays in Russia, but several notable North America Players will have a shot at the team as weel, this includes Dimitri Kulikov who was the Florida Panthers first round draft pick last year. Also Vyacheslav Voinov of the Manchester Monarchs in the American Hockey League and Dmitri Kugryshev of the Quebec City Ramparts (QMJHL).

Another notable Nikita Filatov who started the year with the Columbus Blue Jackets, but was recently decided to go back home to play for Russian Power house CSKA Moscow.

Russian Pre Tournament Roster

Goaltenders

Igor Bobkov, Metallurg Magnitogorsk (RUS, KHL)

Alexander Zalivin, Dynamo Moscow (RUS, KHL)

Ramis Sadikov, Erie Otters (OHL)

Alexei Trifonov, Lada Togliatti (RUS, KHL)


Defensemen

Anton Klementiev, Bridgeport Sound Tigers (AHL)

Dmitri Orlov, Metallurg Novokuznetsk (RUS, KHL)

Maxim Chudinov, Severstal Cherepovets (RUS, KHL)

Dmitri Kostromitin, Rouyn-Nornda Huskies (QMJHL)

Nikita Zaitsev, Sibir Novosibirsk (RUS, KHL)

Nikita Pivtsakin, Avangard Omsk (RUS, KHL)

Konstantin Plaksin, Traktor Chelyabinsk (RUS, KHL)

Alexander Tarasov, MVD Balashikha (RUS, KHL)

IIldar Isangulov, Salavat Yulayev Ufa (RUS, KHL)

Kirill Yuriev, Lada Togliatti (RUS, KHL)

Vyacheslav Voinov, Manchester Monarchs (AHL)

Dmitri Kulikov, CSKA Moscow (RUS, KHL)


Forwards

Nikita Filatov, CSKA Moscow (RUS, KHL)

Alexander Burmostrov, Barrie Colts (OHL)

Vladimir Tarasenko, Sibir Novosibirsk (RUS, KHL)

Pavel Dedunov, Amur Khabarovsk (RUS, KHL)

Ivan Telegin, Saginaw Spirit (OHL)

Maxim Kitsyn, Metallurg Novokuznetsk (RUS, KHL)

Maxim Trunev, Severstal Cherepovets (RUS, KHL)

Sergei Plotnikov, Amur Khabarovsk (RUS, KHL)

Evgeni Kuznetsov, Traktor Chelyabinsk (RUS, KHL)

Evgeni Timkin, Avangard Omsk (RUS, KHL)

Vyacheslav Kulemin, CSKA Moscow (RUS, KHL)

Egor Dugin, Traktor Chelyabinsk (RUS, KHL)

Kirill Petrov, AK Bars Kazan (RUS, KHL)

Magomed Gimbatov, SKA St. Petersburg (RUS, KHL)

Petr Khokhryakov, Neftekhimik Nizhnekamsk (RUS, KHL)

Dmitri Kugryshev, Quebec City Ramparts (QMJHL)

Evgeni Grachev, Hartford Wolfpack (AHL)


Slovakia

After a great tournament where they finished 4th which was one of the best junior performances ever. The Slovaks are wanting to prove that last year was no fluke. This was just 2 years after where they got a miracle to stay in the top level with a 9-0 bashing of Belarus where it was enough to put Germany and Belarus down to the Division 1 level. This year, Slovakia is hoping that they recent NHL Draft picks Tomas Tatar and Richard Panik will lead them on offense as they hope to have another strong tournament this season.

A couple of other forwards to look for is winger Jakub Gasparovic has scored 32 points (13G 19A) for the U20 Team which plays in the Slovak Extraliga. Also from the U18 squad is Libor Hudacek featured on the U18 Team after a strong tournament last year is looking ahead with him as he has 15 points which ranks 2nd on the U20 Team.

On defense is Martin Stajnoch has emerged as a defenseve leader with a +10 rating and is the featured defense on the team and should be a lock to make the squad. Earlier this season, Slovakia played in the Euro Ice Hockey Challenge where they went a perfect 3-0-0 in the event against Norway, Switzerland and Germany.

They were most impressed with the win against Switzerland since they will play them in the Group Stage. It's a tough start in front of them as they will play the USA on the opening day on December 26.

Slovakia Pre Tournament Roster

Goalies

Mark Ciliak, Kometa Brno (Extraliga, CZE)

Tomas Halasz, HC Kosice (Extralia, SVK)

Tomas Pek, Slovan Bratislava (Extraliga, SVK)


Defensemen

Peter Hrasko, HKm Zvolen (Extraliga, SVK)

Henrich Jabornik, HK 36 Skalica (Extraliga, SVK)

Ivan Jankovic, HK 36 Skalica (Extraliga, SVK)

Adam Janosik, Gatineau Olympiques (QMJHL)

Martin Marincin, HC Kosice (Extraliga, SVK)

Matus Rais, HK Nitra (Extraliga, SVK)

Michal Siska, HKm Zvolen (Extraliga, SVK)

Peter Slimak, HC Kosice (Extraliga, SVK)

Martin Stajnoch, Slovan Bratislava (Extraliga, SVK)


Forwards

Martin Bakos, Slovan Bratislava (Extraliga, SVK)

Lukas Cingel, MsHK Zilina (Extraliga, SVK)

Jakub Gasparovic, Dukla Trencin (Extraliga, SVK)

Frantisek Gerhet, HC Litvinov (Extraliga, CZE)

Maros Grosaft, HK Nitra (Extraliga, SVK)

Libor Hudacek, Slovan Bratislava (Extraliga, SVK)

Radoslav IIIo, Tri-City Storm (USHL)

Andrej Kudrna, Red Deer Rebels (WHL)

Adam Lapsansky, HK Popard (Extraliga, SVK)

Samuel Mlynarovic, HK Proprad (Extraliga, SVK)

Richard Panik, Windsor Spitfires (OHL)

Andrej Stastny, Dukla Trencin (Extraliga, SVK)

Jan Sykora, HC Banska Bystrica (Extraliga, SVK)

Tomas Tatar, Grand Rapids Griffins (AHL)

Martin Uhnak, HK Nitra (Extraliga, SVK)

Michael Vandas, HK Popard (Extraliga, SVK)

Marek Viedensky, Prince George Cougars (WHL)

2010 World Junior Championship Schedule

As we are now under a month to go till the upcoming World Junior Hockey Championship which will be taking place in Saskatoon and Regina in Saskatchewan Canada. I will start posting info such as the schedule, news from the Team USA Camps and the rosters of the different teams as they start coming out in the run up of the tournament.

Canada has dominated the tournament as they have won gold the last 5 seasons dating back to the 2004-2005 season. The USA is the last time a team other then Canada has won gold back in 2004. For the recent WJC Medal for the Americans, you have to look at the 2007 event when they won Bronze when the tournament was hosted in Sweden. Sweden has finished with the Silver while Russia has had the Bronze the last 2 seasons.

Perhaps the most interesting note for the early portion of the tournament, is that they will play Slovakia who knocked them out in the Quarterfinals last year will be their Tournament opener this year.

Tournament Format: 10 teams are divided into 2 groups of 5 in the group stage. After the Round Robin, the top 3 will advance to the knockout stages. The Group Winners will get a QF Round Bye while the 2nd and 3rd place teams will move on the Quarterfinals. The Knockout stages become a single elimination till we reach the Gold Medal where they crown the champions.

For the 4th and 5th Place Teams, they will head into the Relegation Round where they will battle to survive to keep their spot for next season. The 1st and 2nd place teams will finish 7th and 8th overall and keep their spots, while the 3rd and 4th place teams will finish 9th and 10th overall and will lose their spots, they are replaced by the 1st and 2nd place teams from this years Division 1 Tournament.

Tournament Groups

Group A in Saskatoon: Canada, Slovakia, U.S.A., Latvia, Switzerland

Group B in Regina: Sweden, Russia, Czech Republic, Finland, Austria


All Group A Games will be at the Credit Union Center in Saskatoon

All Group B Games will be at the Brandt Center in Regina

Here's the Tournament Schedule so you can get familiar with it now as we get closer to the start of the WJC. I will show the Group A Games first which include the USA and Canada then the Group B Games. Saskatchewan is in the Central Time Zone, so they will be no time zone changes during the Tournament which will make it easy to follow.

To find more info, here's some more websites to follow as we get closer to the start of the championship.

IIHF: www.iihf.com

USA Hockey: www.usahockey.com

Hockey Canada: www.hockeycanada.ca

Austria: www.eishockey.at

Czech Republic: www.hokej.cz

Finland: www.finhockey.fi

Latvia: www.lhf.lv

Russia: www.fhr.ru/content/23

Slovakia: www.szlh.sk/uvod

Sweden: www.swehockey.se

Switzerland: www.swiss-icehockey.ch/SIH/de/index.php

Tournament Schedule (Group Stage)

12/26

A: Latvia VS. Canada 3:00 PM

A: Slovakia VS. U.S.A. 7:00 PM

B: Czech Republic VS. Sweden 1:00 PM

B: Russia VS. Austria 5:00 PM


12/27

A: U.S.A. VS. Switzerland 3:00 PM

A: Slovakia VS. Latvia 7:00 PM

B: Austria VS. Sweden 1:00 PM

B: Czech Republic VS. Finland 5:00 PM


12/28

A: Canada VS. Switzerland 3:00 PM

B: Finland VS. Russia 5:00 PM


12/29

A: Latvia VS. U.S.A. 3:00 PM

A: Canada VS. Slovakia 7:00 PM

B: Austria VS. Czech Republic 1:00 PM

B: Sweden VS. Russia 5:00 PM


12/30

A: Switzerland VS. Latvia 3:00 PM

B: Finland VS. Austria 1:00 PM


12/31

A: Switzerland VS. Slovakia 3:00 PM

A: U.S.A. VS. Canada 7:00 PM

B: Sweden VS. Finland 1:00 PM

B: Russia VS. Czech Republic 5:00 PM


1/1: Tournament Off Day

Tournament Schedule (Knockout and Relegation)

When we get to the playoffs and Relegation, the Relegation Round Games will all be at the Brandt Center in Regina while the Knockout Round will be at the Credit Union Center in Saskatoon.

1/2

Rele: A4 VS. B5 12:00 PM

QFS: A2 VS. B3 4:00 PM

QFS: B2 VS. A3 8:00 PM


1/3

Rele: B4 VS. A5 12:00 PM

SFS: A1 VS. QF2W 4:00 PM

SFS: B1 VS. QF1W 8:00 PM


1/4

Rele: A4 VS. A4 12:00 PM

Rele: B4 VS. B5 4:00 PM

5th: QF1L VS. QF2L 8:00 PM


1/5

Bronze: SF1L VS. SF2L 3:00 PM

Gold: SF1W VS. SF2W 6:00 PM