More Canadian Fodder

Well, the IIHF world Junior championships started up this past boxing day and those crazy canucks set a new record in shutout hockey lasting over 14 periods worth dating back to last years tourney. And its also great to see the boys in red and white off to a nice start by defeating the hometown swedes 2-0 and then taking it to their american cousins this afternoon 6-3. For you NCAA followers there was lots to see whether you were on the winning or losing team today and Mr. Toews was the most impressive of the bunch, when that kid is on the ice , shit happens. Like that Kyle Okposo kid as well and not just because he carries the same shade as my kid, he is a pretty dynamic hockey player in his own right. The red white and blue had better pick up their socks as they are off to an 0-2 start and only have one point to show after two efforts (that for the overtime loss to the Germans).

A little surprised by the selection of Daniel Bertram to the Canadian squad this year as I was pencilling in Devon Setogouchi. Dan has not been tearing it up in the college ranks for Boston College this year and does not seem to have the same offensive sparkle that he was famous for when he plied his trade in the Alberta Junior Hockey League.In any event us armchair critics can always speculate about who should be in and who should not be. I guess the american team had their own controversy when the number 2 nhl draft choice and last season team member was not selected to join the yanks in Sweden this year. If the americans win, it will be thought to be a decision of gifted hockey genius. If they dont make the cut, then the coaching staff and management of the american team will have to start anwering some serious questions. Ryan would have surely helped that squad on the powerplay and right now that american team is struggling in that department. Stay tuned as this story continues to unfold.