World Cup Predictions
After reading the in depth analysis piece I wanted to add this article laying out predictions for the tournament finalists and such
Gretzky Division
Sweden
United States
British Columbia
World
Canada
Ontario
Predictions: This is the powerhouse more competative division by far. I think Sweden, United States and Ontario are locks for the quarter finals. On paper Canada should hold that final spot BUT World and British Columbia both have promising rosters as well and nobody is a real bottom feeder. If one of those two teams can get behind a hot goaltender like Price or Andersen i think they can play the underdog role and beat out that Canada squad of the two i think BC has the better chance, i just cant get over that World blue line and just like he did for the Oilers and Wild this offseason Dubnyk will choke late in the run. I think quarter finals in order are....
Quarter Finals
Sweden (1) vs British Columbia (4)
United States (2) vs Ontario (3)
Division Finals
Sweden (1) vs Ontario (3)..... with Sweden advancing to final
Tretiak Division
Czech
Quebec
Finland
Alberta
Russia
Maritimes
Predictions: This division had two noticably weaker teams on paper which make this quater finals a lot more cut and dry. I dont think there is even a close race i think Russia, Czech, Quebec and Finland breeze to quarters barring a major injury or two. Of the two teams i have on the outside i can see the Maritimers led by Allen and the Crosby line having the better chance at an upset. Allen will have to go on a hell of a run to carry that team. but lets get straight to the matchups
Quarters
Russia (1) vs Quebec (4)
Finland (2) vs Czech (3)
Division Final
Russia (1) vs Finland (2).... Russia advances to face Sweden in Final
THE CHAMPIONSHIP FINAL
Russia vs Sweden. Cmon meow you know i got Russia to win.