World Cup Hockey Preview
By Matthew Ross
Ok, now that the World Cup of Hockey is underway, Caffimage thought we should break down the rosters and give you our picks for this year's edition. It's been eight long years since this tourney took place, so expect all of these teams to be hungry.
Team USA
Coached by savvy veteran Ron Wilson, this rag tag bunch are technically the defending champs of the cup. Their current edition will be competitive. Lead by aging vets Brett Hull and Chris Chelios, the Americans are physical and skilled. However, they seem to be lacking some of the speed required to dominate their European opponents. While Robert Esche and Ty Conklin are capable netminders, they may not be able to match the clutch performances by some of the other superstar netminders.
Prediction: They will not reach the semi-finals
Team Sweden
You can never count the Swedes out of any tournament. They have a mix of skill and grit. Their one question mark area? Tommy Salo has been with the national team for a while, but Sweden has yet to thank him for a job well done. Therefore, the yellow and blue will have to outscore their opponents. Special teams will be key for Sweden as well. If opponents can shut down Mats Sundin, they stand a good chance.
Prediction: They will not reach the semi-finals
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