With pre-tournament games over and the World Cup of Hockey officially set to start tomorrow, Sean McIndoe breaks down each team’s chances at taking home the top prize.
Unsurprisingly, he thinks the tournament is Canada’s to lose.
Realistic best case: They run the table, going undefeated in front of the hometown crowd and winning yet another international title.
Realistic worst case: Pretty much anything short of that would be considered a disaster.
Most likely outcome: There are no sure things in international hockey, where every game can be crucial and one hot goaltender can singlehandedly stop a powerhouse. But it will be a surprise if Canada doesn’t win it all.
And here’s what he had to say about what we can expect from Team North America.
Most likely outcome: They’re fun to watch, and everyone is secretly rooting for them because they make for a great story. They pull off a feel-good upset against one of the three real countries, but it’s not enough for a playoff spot
There’s more from McIndoe at the link. [VICE]
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Sean Shapiro breaks down the storylines to keep an eye on at the Traverse City Prospects Tournament. [Wrong Side of the Red Line]
And as a reminder:
Yes, the Red Wings official site will be streaming the NHL Prospect Tournament games. https://t.co/JmKdgoXwfV
— Mark Stepneski (@StarsInsideEdge) September 16, 2016
Players like Alex Ovechkin and Jonathan Toews are holding their ground when it comes to playing in both the World Cup and the Olympics. [The Hockey News]
TSN’s Travis Yost takes a look at how defenseman affect save percentage. [TSN]
At the World Cup’s media day, TJ Oshie talked Mighty Ducks.
“If Gordon Bombay said it, it has to be real.” –@TJOshie77 on the effectiveness of the triple deke #WCH2016 pic.twitter.com/VOjZKRfDDd
— NHL (@NHL) September 15, 2016
According to Todd McLellan, Connor McDavid should try being a little selfish during the World Cup. [TSN]
The World Cup is giving players like Rasmus Ristolainen a chance to prove their worth before the season starts. [Sportsnet]t
Despite Matt Murray’s success last season, Marc-Andre Fleury wants to stay with the Penguins. [NHL]
It’s time for a little #fbf, starting Steven Stamkos, Jordan Eberle, and Martin Jones.
16 years ago: Stamkos picks Eberle’s pocket, goes end to end, gets robbed by Jones 😂😂 pic.twitter.com/UIWMVf6YdW
— Gino Hard (@Ginohard_) September 12, 2016
Oilers defenseman Andrew Ference is considering retirement. [NHL]
NHLers talk about the P.K. Subban and Shea Weber trade. [Puck Daddy]
And finally, Jason Spezza talks about his recent hockey clinic (there’s more from Spezza here).
It’s all about the smiles.
Jason Spezza and @TxLandCattle are helping kids to keep playing the game they love. pic.twitter.com/hX0wvMYUH2
— Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) September 15, 2016