Buffalo, Calgary & Chicago 2010 Olympics Previews

Buffalo Sabres - Die By The Blade

Pack Your Bags

Ryan Miller

I'm not breaking any news by announcing that Ryan Miller will be selected to play for the USA at the Olympics. Miller will not only make the team but he is a near lock to start for the USA. Tim Thomas will also get a look for the United States but any fool can see what Miller has done this season. Millsie, as his teammates call him, is off to the best start of his entire career and although the season is only half over, has been mentioned as a Vezina candidate in some circles.

Jochen Hecht

There is no way to confuse the season MIller is having with the season Jochen Hecht is having but both are a lock to play in the Olympics. Hecht is a sure bet to represent Germany at the Olympics because they are still growing the sport of hockey in Germany. There are plenty of good players that hail from Germany, including German Coach and ex-Sabres defenseman Uwe Krupp, but they don't have enough depth to consider leaving a player like Hecht off the squad.

Calgary Flames - Matchsticks & Gasoline

Jay Bouwmeester - "Pack your bags"

There are lots of great defenders to choose from for Team Canada, but it's hard to argue against Jay Bouwmeester's inclusion: not only is he capable at both ends of the ice, he's regularly been a league leader in terms of ice time for the last several seasons. He's frequently played against the best in the business during his career and only recently turned 26 years old.

Jarome Iginla - "Pack Your Bags"

Iginla is not only a sure thing to make team Canada, but most expect him to be it's captain. Recently named as one of the best players of the last decade by Puck Daddy, Jarome's 12 goal month has re-solidified his claim to a place on the club. As such, Vancouverites will get to the experience the unfamiliar feeling of cheering for an effectual captain for once this winter.

Carolina Hurricanes - Canes Country

Pack Your Bags:

Joni Pitkanen

The defenseman has been injured a lot this season for the Canes, but if he is healthy he should be a no-brainer addition for Team Finland.

Tuomo Ruutu

Ruutu put up career best numbers last season, has started out this season with a bang, and is another easy selection for Team Finland.

Jussi Jokinen

The skilled winger was supposedly a borderline case during the summer, but his solid start to this season should push him over the bubble and into the lineup for Team Finland.