USA yesterday pulled off easily the most exciting win of the tournament so far in its 3-2 shootout win over Russia thanks to knew American cult hero T.J. Oshie and his four shootout goals on six attempts. The Americans were outplayed for much of the game but got lucky thanks to a disallowed goal in the third period.
Now the US faces Slovenia, a team that shocked the hockey world by registering its first ever Olympic win over perennial contender Slovakia yesterday. The Slovaks, like the Finns and Swedes, have been hit hard by injury, but the win is impressive nonetheless. Slovenia has only one NHLer on its roster, but he’s a good one. Anze Kopitar has quietly established himself as one of the top 10 centres in the National Hockey League, and scored a great goal in yesterday’s win. Either way, the Americans have to be considered heavy favourites going into this game. Here’s how the US lined up in its win over the Russians. No word yet on who will start in goal or whether there will be any changes.
United States
Parise – Kesler – Kane
van Riemsdyk – Pavelski – Kessel
Pacioretty – Stastny – Oshie
Brown – Backes – Callahan
McDonagh – Suter
Orpik – Martin
Fowler – Shattenkirk
Faulk – Carlson