Friday, January 1, 2010

Incredible Night of Hockey Followed by the Winter Classic

Last night's World Junior match up between Team USA and Canada was one for the ages. The final outcome of Canada wining 5-4 in a shoot out is the biggest news across Canada, but folks should step back and look at what should really be the main story line.

The passion and enthusiasm exhibited the the two groups of youngsters is unparalleled in the world of hockey. Even though it was a not even a medal round game, nothing was left on the ice as both teams gave their all for 65 minutes leading up to the final shoot out.

It is rare that you will find another game that will be played with the level of intensity exhibited in Saskatchewan on New Years Eve.

Last night's game between the Predators and Blue Jackets was also a passionate affair. There were few stoppages and there was intense back and forth action with plenty of hitting. The frustration of the Blue Jackets was best personified by Jakub Voracek smashing his stick over the goal cage as David Legwand's shot entered the net to give the Preds the victory.

Preds-Jackets Stories...


Preds-Jackets Highlights from NHL.com

Here is our wrap up from last night's game. The Preds finished 2009 and the first half of the season in sixth place in the Western Conference with 51 points.

John Glennon has the game story, notes, and postgame ponderings.

Around Pred Blog Nation reports come from Section 303, The View from 111, Forechecker, Paul McCann, and Preds 101 who analyzes behind the net turnovers from last night's game.

The Jacket's web site has post game quotes from both teams.

The other side of the story comes from The Columbus Dispatch,

In Pred Nation...

Pred Prospect Goalie Jeremy Smith was named ot he ECHL All-Star team.

Dirk the Forechecker takes a look at combined 2009 standings to come up with a calender year list.

Mark has his weekly View at the View from 111.

Admiral's Short Shifts salutes Andreas Thuresson's first NHL goal.

Big Tex at OnGoalAnalysis gives props to the Preds with a song dedication saluting the team.

Winter Classic...


Tim Rosenthal and Jake Duhaime have a bunch of reports and videos from the ice at Boston at the Boston based Inside Hockey. Jake Duhaime's piece at was picked up by Fox Sports on their Winter Classic coverage. I like this interview with James Murphy on the ice in the snow at Fenway.

Here is a brief "history" video of the Winter Classic.

As you prepare to watch the Winter Classic today, you may need to consult Matt Reitz's viewing guide.

Around the NHL...

Mirtle has a good summary of candidates for Team USA which will be announced today in Boston at the Winter Classic.

Illegal Curve ceased to exist as a daily web site as of yesterday. The weekly radio show will continue. IC was a great site and perfect for catching up on all the hockey news in a quick read. Best wishes to all involved and good luck in future endeavors. Y'all will be missed!

More Later...

Buddy Oakes for PredsOnTheGlass

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