Elimination Time in Vancouver

Video Highlights from Last Game

Well, it's been just under a week since I last posted and you can blame the Olympics. Every two years, I find myself in a fog...unable to focus on anything else but the Olympic games. Between the Winter games and Summer games, Winter is my favorite for obvious reasons. The level of hockey has simply been amazing. Not only has the play been great to watch, but the Olympics has given me the opportunity to pay attention to players who I never get to really see on a consistent basis. Pool play allowed me to see the Eastern young guns such as Crosby, Malkin, and my personal favorite...Ovechkin. There is just so much talent in the NHL and the Olympics do a great job of showcasing it. Unfortunately, like all good things, the Olympics will eventually come to an end. Thomas Greiss of Team Germany was the first San Jose Shark to finish his run at the gold medal, but after tonight, he will have some company.

Just a few moments ago, Team USA and Joe Pavelski, defeated Team Switzerland by a score of 2 - 0. In a very close game, the Americans barely skated by the Swiss team as they continue to march towards the Gold Medal game. Later tonight, Team Sweden and Douglas Murray faceoff against Slovakia...a solid team, but one that the Swedes should be able to defeat. And that leaves us with the game between Team Russia and Team Canada.

After putting a hurting on Team Germany, the Canadians are looking to defeat the my predicted gold medal winner. More specifically, Marleau, Thornton, Heatley, and Boyle are preparing to face their friend and NHL goaltender, Evgeni Nabokov...at least I assume that Number 20 will be in net. With this unfortunately early matchup between hockey powers, it guarantees that at least one more Shark will end their pursuit of gold by the end of the day. Whatever happens, let's hope that whoever loses tonight will channel that disappointment and frustration into solid NHL play upon their return.

At any rate, it will be a great game to watch.

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