Canada versus USA postgame: Seven thoughts

The Canadian men are one win away from winning gold in Sochi, but these jerseys are still awful.

Thoughts on the USA versus Canada semifinal game

1) Many pundits predicted that Team USA's biggest problem would be scoring goals. Until this game, that criticism looked completely unfounded. Canadian goaltender Carey Price stopped 31 shots for the shutout, but never looked especially challenged. In one game Team USA's decision to not include scorers Bobby Ryan and Keith Yandle changes from looking like a stroke of genius to a gigantic mistake. 

2) This was a devastating two days for American hockey.  Both the US men's and women's team lost to Canada, failing to avenge their respective losses in Vancouver. It will be interesting to see what the longterm fallout of this will be. These games had the potential to be a powerful recruitment tool for US hockey, it will be a shame if these losses had the opposite effect.

3) Crosby did not get a point this game, but he played his best game of the tournament. Crosby created offence all night, and every time he was on the ice, his line dictated the play, and at times killed American momentum.

4) Canada did an excellent job of negating the Americans' speed and controlling the play. Jeff Carter and Drew Doughty had especially strong games, each manufacturing good scoring chances. If Canada wins gold, Doughty should be tournament MVP. If Sweden wins, the MVP should be Erik Karlsson.

5) It is funny how hindsight changes perceptions. While going into this game, the story was Canada's inability to score goals, it has now become how good Canada has been all tournament at playing defence and out-chancing its opponents.

6) Price has been the ideal starter for Canada. Price's assignment has not been easy; most goalies find it difficult to play consistently after going a longtime between shots. Price has been incredible, and his confidence has had a calming effect on his team. American goalie Jonathan Quick also played excellent, and had no chance of stopping the Jamie Benn goal.

7) Going into the final game Canada has reasserted its position as gold medal favourites. That being said, Canada looked very comfortable playing a North American team that plays a similar style to its own. The Swedish game is more skill based, and their mobile defence featuring Karlsson and Oliver Ekman-Larsson will present a new challenge for Canada. The Swedish team is still more comfortable than Canada on international ice, and it will be interesting to see if this causes Canada problems.