I think this tournament may be the most interesting U20 in years. I don't think it's necessarily the most talented group of players like I've seen some others state, but I think there's a lot that's up in the air.
Canada may be missing a whole bunch of serious talent, but that's the norm for them. They have the depth to be the favorite every year. That's what they are again, no question.
Sweden certainly has thier most talented team in years and all the buzz around here certainly reflects that. However, as a follower of US teams over the years, I know talent and pre-tournament buzz doesn't always equal success. That said, Sweden is coming off two very successful tournaments with consecutive silvers. If anyone can upset Canada, I feel it's them. Keep in mind that this group of players came in fourth at the U18s a few years back.
Russia's roster doesn't impress me. The fact that they are missing a good number of thier top players for a number of reasons compounds that. However, Russia always seems to play well at this tournament. I wouldn't be surprised at all if a bunch of guys who received no hype before the tournament end up playing very strong and lead Russia to a medal.
This is the weakest US group in years. They have a good number of quality players but they just don't compare, talent wise, to recent US teams. My expectations are low but that means they're more likely to be exceeded. If they get a good showing from thier defense and goaltending (the latter being a serious weakness in the recent past), they may surprise and end up with a medal.
Finland, like Sweden, may have thier most talented roster in years. However, I think there's too much expected of younger players. Guys like Granlund, Rajala and Vatanen may be tournament stand outs but I don't think they can lead the Finns to the medals on thier own. If the older guys can surprise, things may go thier way.
The Czechs may not have any future NHL stars, but I think they've got good depth compared to the Finns. Thier best players are all '90s which I feel gives them an advantage. I don't expect the relegtion round to be a concern for them.
Slovakia is very interesting this year. I don't think they'll be competing for a medal, but after last years showing, it will be interesting to see if they can surprise again. The biggest question to me will be thier goaltending. If they do have a successful tournament, does anyone think that will be vindication for the HK Orange 20 team? I think so - though I don't think a poor showing should necessarily reflect poorly on it. Finally, I wouldn't be surprised to see Tatar lead the tourney in scoring. It might just come at the expense of the weaker teams in the relegation round.
The other three teams won't be a serious factor, as usual.
I expect Canada to win. After that, I expect Sweden, Russia or the US to compete for the consolation prizes. After that, I expect the Czechs, Finns and Slovaks in that order.
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