Before this tournament began I went on a few shows and now correctly picked the final between Team USA and Team Canada and now I will have to live with my pick of Canada winning the gold. Does Team USA have a chance? Absolutely they do but when push comes to shove I believe two players will make the difference for Canada, Taylor Hall (expected #1 pick in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft) and Jordan Eberle (Edmonton).

The U.S. team has guaranteed themselves a silver and that’s terrific. The last time they gained a medal on Canadian ice was in 1986 when they got a bronze in Hamilton. That’s progress. But when I look at the rosters, and trust me stats don’t mean a hill of beans in a one-game contest, I think Eberle’s clutch goals which have continued and Hall’s blazing speed and scoring touch as of late will be too much for the Red, White and Blue.

I would think Team USA will go with Mike Lee (St. Cloud State/Phoenix) who beat a tremendous goalie in Sweden’s Jacob Markstrom (Florida). Jake Allen (Blues) has been solid for Canada and I would give them the edge between the pipes as well.

The American’s original six line of Derek Stepan (Rangers), Danny Kristo (Habs, l, photo by Feldman) and Jerry D’Amingo (Leafs) has been stellar and Stepan and D’Amingo have really shined in the last few games. John Carlson’s (Washington) power play prowess and Chris Kreider’s (Rangers) ability with the extra attacker on the ice is America’s hope if they are going to prevent Canada from winning six-straight gold medals.

X-factor guys – If I had to pick a few guys to watch I would keep an eye on Jordan Schroeder (Vancouver) for Team USA and Gabriel Bourque (Nashville) for Canada because they have had some great games as well.

On a side note I have been extremely impressed with Team USA defenseman Cam Fowler's booming shot and terrific hockey sense. He is a top-five pick for certain in the upcoming NHL Draft.

Even if you’re not a big hockey fan if you have a patriotic bone in your body then watch this game. If Team USA can pull out a win it won’t be as big as 1980 but you will feel that same sense of pride and you can’t put a price on that. The gold medal game will take place on Tuesday, at 7PM ET on the NHL Network.

You can read more from Russ Cohen on www.sportsology.com
or be sure to pick up Russ's book 100 Rangers Greats (click here)

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