Esche to start vs. Russia

[octopi]

You have to take into account what's at stake here : nothing.

.

Isn't seeding at stake for the Russians? (I don't think the USA can move up or down...)

 

[arrbez]

I am still wondering what Grahame did to make the team in the first place. That's even if Ryan Miller wasn't healthy enough to play.

As of right now DiPietro gives the US the best chance of pulling the upset in the QF.

Who is this "Ryan Miller" character I keep hearing about?

 

[wholeshow*]

the americans not taking miller is like canada not taking staal and crosby.

 

[MOGiLNY]

Isn't seeding at stake for the Russians? (I don't think the USA can move up or down...)

yeah, depending on how this game goes and how Swedes and Slovaks play, Russia could move up or down in the standings..

 

[Nova88]

I think Russia is better off facing anyone but Canada in the Q’s.

 

[btn]

the americans not taking miller is like canada not taking staal and crosby.

How many goals would Miller have scored vs. Sweden or Slovakia? Goaltending has been one of the US strengths in their last couple of games.

 

[Jaysus]

usatoday.com/sports/hockey/nhl/2006-02-20-esche-russia_x.htm

 

[Brooklyndevil]

Tough position for Esche. But I have no problem with him getting a start. Let's hope we bury a few for him. Go USA!

 

[Sotnos]

I'm a bit surprised that if they're doing this just to rest DiPietro that they didn't go back to Grahme.

You and me both. What a total joke.

 

[sabresrat]

You and me both. What a total joke.

a 3.00 GAA and 88% save percentage against one of the worst teams in the Olympics is good enough for you?

 

[BringBackHakstol]

You and me both. What a total joke.

While i am surprised, a total joke is a bit harsh. Grahame wasnt exactly stellar in his chance, so in a game that doesn't mean anything for the US they might as well give the third guy a shot. Who knows, maybe he will stand on his head and create a controversy going into the QF - im not expecting that though.

 

[Dig Out Your Soul]

You and me both. What a total joke.

A total joke to a Tampa Bay fan.

Grahame was given his chance, he lost it. There are two better goaltenders than him waiting right behind him for their chance too. It's not like Grahame was so much better and deserved to be the undisputed number one. I think it was up for grabs, it's just that someone HAD to start the tournament.

 

[Hockeyfan02]

I am still wondering what Grahame did to make the team in the first place. That's even if Ryan Miller wasn't healthy enough to play.

Please. He's been better than both Esche and Dipietro this year. If anyone shouldn't be on the team to give Miller a spot, it's Esche who's been the worst of the goalies that were in the mix. Why he gets a start for being a total baby throughout the process is a joke. First he criticizes potential teammates, then almost didn't go because he started out as the 3rd goaltender. Not like this game matters so it doesn't matter who's out there. If Grahame would have gotten the start, good for him...if not, oh well. Dipietro is the best chance this team has next round anyway, not like Esche or Grahame starting in the game was going to change that