No WJC thread?

[DrJones]

Quote: Originally Posted by Qb

I've seen many "Canada's dominance is ruining the WJC/host the event elsewhere so it's not a sure thing" stories in the past few weeks.

So have I. Usually from the ESPN/SI types who know nothing.

Since 1990, Canada's hosted 7 times and won 4 golds (57%).
Since 1990, Europe or the US has hosted 14 times and Canada's won 8 golds (57%).

The problem is that whenever the WJC is held in Europe, attendance/interest level stinks, whereas in Canada it's a license to print money.

Quote: Originally Posted by Qb

Anywho, just trying to celebrate a little, not saying it's Miracle on Ice: Part Deux. Now if USA wins the Olympics...

Despite what Brian Burke would have us think, the US winning Olympic gold wouldn't be a huge upset, either. The Swiss beat Canada in round-robin play in 2006; Belarus eliminated Sweden in 2002. Both of those are way bigger upsets than any potential US victory in 2010. I'd seed Team USA 4th behind Canada, Russia, and Sweden.

[youvalss]

Quote: Originally Posted by youvalss

Do you mean like a sports bar? I'm not really a bar guy, and I don't drink anyway...And hockey isn't my sport...maybe, just maybe if MJ was young again I might go ot and watch. But I don't know many people here, so...

I have a feeling I was way way out...you probably meant someting else?

[Scottdau]

Quote: Originally Posted by DrJones

Not to take anything away from the Americans, who were very deserving winners, but I don't consider this a big upset in terms of talent (though of course it's always difficult to overcome a hostile crowd). Going into the tourney, this was considered to be the weakest Canadian team since 2006, with Canada's top six under-20 forwards and top two under-20 defencemen either playing in the NHL or injured. If this year's tournament were held at a neutral site, Sweden would've been the favourite, with Canada and the US a roughly equal second bet. Worst Russian team I've seen in eons.

I agree it would have been an upset if Canada won!

[DrJones]

Quote: Originally Posted by Scottdau

I agree it would have been an upset if Canada won!

Not every game between two teams results in an upset. Switzerland beating Russia, THAT is an upset.

[Scottdau]

Quote: Originally Posted by DrJones

Not every game between two teams results in an upset. Switzerland beating Russia, THAT is an upset.

Maybe!

[Qb]

Damn you, DrJones, and your facts! You're spot on that the best thing for the IIHF is to play it in Canada for the revenue it generates. I guess all I was saying was that based on pre-tournament perception, it was a "big upset". Based on hindsight, I'd still say it was an upset, but you could take out the big.

It will be interesting to see how it goes in Buffalo next year. I may actually try to get to a game or two, as we'll be spending the holidays at the in-laws in Edinboro, PA which is easily driveable... assuming there isn't 17 feet of snow. Which isn't exactly a safe assumption...

Quote: Originally Posted by DrJones

Despite what Brian Burke would have us think, the US winning Olympic gold wouldn't be a huge upset, either.

No doubt the ol' windbag is underselling a tad to protect his image if they tank, but my comment you quoted was made tongue-in-cheek. I thought Scottdau has taught us all that you can say anything you want, as long as you put after it.

[TheJoker12]

Never posted in these forums but I love the world juniors, its by far my favourite hockey of the year (playoffs a close 2nd).

Gotta give props to Jordan Eberle. I'd put him on the Olympic team and only put him out there when Canada needed a goal.

He'd probably score too.

[Money99]

While Canada lost, I really enjoyed that final game.
I heard Bill Clement say that he wished every NHL game could look like that.
Most of the goals were of highlight variety and it was nice to see a game decided by offensive skill rather than goalies for a change.

Anyway, congrats to the USA on a fine tournament and a deserved Gold medal.

The kids on Canada have nothing to be ashamed of. I thought they played great and should keep their heads high.