Thoughts so far?
I haven’t seen every minute of every game, but I like what I have seen.
Even in Sweden game, Russia showed more depth and talent. It was just a matter of Sweden playing a very effective defensive style that closed space, which ultimately won them the game.
Its not just the forwards either imo, there are talented Ds in this generation.
Askarov has made some mistakes, but I believe he is the youngest player on the team.
In my opinion, Russia is the best team that I have seen in this tournament. I hope that holds up against the USA. They have been dominant in every game they have played. Their effort against the USA on Wednesday was a masterpiece. As far as I can see, they have the best talent and depth. Four lines that can pour the pressure on and just swarm the opposing goal. Also, they have been somewhat dominant on defense, which is a rarity, although things broke down in the 3rd period against Sweden.
Against Sweden, they dominated periods 1 and 2, but couldn't put anything in. Then in the 3rd, the Swedes started to exert some pressure, feeling new momentum based no doubt on Russia's frustration in not putting anything in. Either the Russian coach is really good, or he is just surrounded by excellent talent. What hurt them against Sweden, IMO, was lack of a team game. There is a lot of individual play on the part of the Russians, and there were too many guys trying to stickhandle through the team and put on a show, rather than advancing the puck and getting into scoring position. It worked for Podkolzin, but it doesn't consistently work.
Sweden did very little with the puck, but they did use their typical strategy against the Russians on defense. They used their superior size and strength to plug up the middle of the ice and force Russia to the perimeter, out of the danger zone. Russia had almost total puck control, but they didn't have a way to get the puck into dangerous scoring territory. Thus, no goals until Podkolzin's classic with 2 minutes left. They just had to kill the remaining 1:49 on the clock to go to OT, but they gave up a turnover in their own zone, and the goalie made a weak effort (he had a great game) to give up the winner.
Sweden's greatest strength, defense, is also the USA's biggest weakness. That plays into Russia's hands, so I am picking Russia to win Bronze!
