Personally, you have to love the idea of the IIHF to hose their annual championship bout of ice hockey in non-traditional hockey lands, such as Germany. They’ve produced players such as Christian Ehrhoff of the Vancouver Canucks, Marco Sturm of the Boston Bruins, Alex Sulzer of the Nashville Predators, and many more. But that’s a very small percentage of the NHL. Now, we’re trying to boost the ratings by an outdoor game to start it off. Where have I heard of that before?
There are 4 players that will compete in the World Champs. There possibly could be 5 if the rumors of Canada adding Brian Elliott as their third goalie are true, but for now, let’s stick with the status quo.
Peter Regin: Obviously the best blue chip prospect to play his rookie season sicne Jason Spezza, Regin will be counted on to lead his native land to victory in nearby Germany. Correct me if I’m wrong, but Regin is the assistanct captain team and will play a huge role in the team’s offense. However, don’t looks for them to go far, unless it’s 2002.
Stat Forecast: 3 points (2,1)
Kaspars Daugavins: The Binghamton standout has likely had the perfect year this time around. He gets to compete in the Olympics, he plays his first NHL game at Madison Square Garden, and now heads to Germany for a chance to make some noise. Their group is easy outside of Canada, and they have the leverage for the upset. Daugavins will have to do something this time, unlike the Olympics.
Stat Forecast: 2 points (0,2)
Erik Karlsson: An up and down rookie year for Erik comes in full circle as he continues his spectacular play at the end of the season into Germany, where he will try to lead Sweden to a gold medal. They are a contender, but they still lack some leadership and experience on the back front. It will be interesting to see how they end up, though and how much Karlsson has in it.
Stat Forecast: 4 points (0,4)
Nick Foligno: A disappointing season for Foligno will try to be reversed as the former Wolve will try to make some magic happen in Germany. Foligno’s expected to be an important forward for them, and had his chances earlier today in the US loss to Germany in OT. Despite that, expect Furby to get some on the board and lead the Americans to a respetable position.
Stat Forecast: 5 points (2,3)