Two teams headed in opposite directions. The key factor is how the US coaching staff prepare their team for this game. If they remind the boys that if they win this game, then they lock up first place, then I expect a good close game with the US clinging on for dear life. If not, I see the improving Czechs taking it to a US defence and goaltending lacking in confidence. The Czechs looked good yesterday against the Swiss, and Olesz clearly has better games in him than he showed yesterday. Swartz also was looking a lot better than the goalie for which his current WHL stats represent.
Another note, there is lots of well deserved hype over the incredible play of Phil Kessel, but young 16 year old Michael Frolik looks like he is going to be a good one as well. Great exposure for two young future stars of the game.
5-3 Czech over US.