SBNation.com - World Cup of Hockey 2016: Complete coverage of the roster announcements and jerseyshttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/46737/sbn-fave.png2016-03-03T14:00:03-05:00http://www.sbnation.com/rss/stream/109109672016-03-03T14:00:03-05:002016-03-03T14:00:03-05:00Totally-not-facetious World Cup of Hockey jersey ranking
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<p>100% serious, you guys.</p> <p>If there's one thing I know about hockey fandom, it's that we love to complain about almost everything that the NHL gives us. I'm certainly not above this. Just within the last month, <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/2016/2/11/10950018/the-nhl-website-redesign-sucks-and-everyone-hates-it" target="_blank">I criticized the redesigned NHL.com</a> and was close to setting fire to myself cause the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.secondcityhockey.com/">Blackhawks</a> were playing <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/2016/2/22/11084680/2016-nhl-scores-wild-blackhawks-stadium-series-sidney-crosby-ducks" target="_blank">in yet another outdoor game</a> and it sucked.</p>
<p>Then this morning, we put up an article saying <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/2016/3/3/11152196/morning-skate-world-cup-of-hockey-roster-snubs-nhl-pitchforks-torches" target="_blank">how we all should definitely be mad online</a> about the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/hockey-world-cup">World Cup of Hockey</a> preliminary roster snubs. It's seemingly in our blood that we as fans of hockey must react with snark every time the league so much as breathes. Like a snake eating its own tail, hockey fans create themselves out of their destruction of the NHL.</p>
<p>Announcements like yesterday's World Cup of Hockey rosters and jerseys are ripe for the picking for NHL fans. So, why should we be any different? We already settled the roster debate, so let's dig in on how completely awful or wonderfully innovative these jerseys really are. And as someone who's watched many seasons of Project Runway, I think I have just the credentials for the job.</p>
<p>These rankings are 100 percent absolutely serious and should be taken as such or you risk pain of fiery death from these scorching hot takes.</p>
<h3>8. Team Europe</h3>
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<p>I won't tell you how long it took me to realize that the logo houses an "E" in the negative space. Probably less time than it took for the NHL to decide on such a logo. I get it, it probably wasn't easy putting together a logo for a mishmash European team. But it shows, big time.</p>
<p>It's probably fitting that this Frankenstein of a team gets such a Frankenstein jersey. The white alternate is miles better than the solid blue and darker blue combination that looks more fit to ride out at your local Medieval Times than hit the ice in Toronto. And don't get me started on the half light blue piping on the collar with the jersey numbers on the home sweater.</p>
<p>I've probably given this jersey more words than it deserves but this is bad and you should absolutely feel bad for your poor design decisions, NHL. Don't @ me.</p>
<h3>7. Team Finland</h3>
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<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/GcdCxT0ePf3w-2B8NW8CaEAZMyU=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/6138811/team_finland.0.jpg">
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<p>I don't really mind these but they're just so boring. The Finland coat of arms -- which looks identical to the Czech Republic -- is way out of place on the home jersey as just a patch. The crest looks best displayed fully across the chest, like on the away white jersey, than tacked on as an aside to a very modern jersey. You have to commit to going full Regency England with the coat of arms, or don't do it at all.</p>
<p>These also get points knocked off for not being the absolutely brilliant styling of Finland's 2014 Olympic jerseys. You can't beat a jersey <a href="http://thepinkpuck.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/finland.jpg" target="_blank">that looks like your flag</a>, you just can't.</p>
<h3>6. Team Sweden</h3>
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<p>Sweden normally wears the predominantly yellow sweater as their designated first jerseys, but they decided to switch it up for this tournament. Still, it's a very lacking jersey all the same. Just the three crowns, the new Adidas stripes and a block of alternating color at the wrists. Simple, but not in the best form of the word.</p>
<p>We're not talking All-Star Game levels of meh, but it's definitely a been-there, done-that jersey style. I get it, it's classic, but come on, take some risks!</p>
<h3>5. Team USA</h3>
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<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/WpppVW4_0-4JxEqLDSBCqhtUx34=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/6139073/team_usa.0.jpg">
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<p>I love you Team USA, I do. I've rooted for you in every international tournament since I can remember. I cried when <span>Sidney Crosby</span> scored the golden goal and howled in rage when the women lost the 2014 Olympic gold medal game on bad officiating and a post. But you can do better than this.</p>
<p>The white diagonal USA jersey is far superior to a crest that looks oddly similar <a href="https://twitter.com/TravisSBN/status/705086740642603008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw" target="_blank">to the new US Soccer logo</a>. The blue jersey isn't atrocious, but again it's very bland. Just the solid red armbands and the Adidas stripes don't add anything to the new logo in the middle, which almost looks just a bit too small for the front.</p>
<p>Thankfully, it's better than <a href="http://www.sikids.com/sites/default/files/sikids/pages/images/cms/imce/users/dantec/2013/08/usa-hockey-2014-jerseys.jpg" target="_blank">the top-heavy design</a> from the 2014 Olympics. The perfect white jersey brings up USA's overall ranking, but hopefully this spells the end of odd crests. <a href="http://www.sullyeliteperformance.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/miracle-on-ie-olympic-hockey-usa-russia-1.jpg" target="_blank">That's not what USA Hockey is remembered for.</a></p>
<h3>4. Team Russia</h3>
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<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/V_s87NtCd45ck4jpA9TI14jZ1hQ=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/6139153/team_russia.0.jpg">
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<p>Maybe I just have an unexplained love for the Russian coat of arms, but I find the elegance of these quite beautiful. Honestly, the picture doesn't do it justice as to <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL/status/705148457078620160" target="_blank">how great it looks in motion</a> -- at least the white ones anyway. I feel like they maybe could have gone with just a darker shade of blue to line up more with Russia's flag, but that's really my only niggle.</p>
<p>Fine, the Russians <a href="http://img.bleacherreport.net/img/slides/photos/003/306/703/hi-res-97034521_crop_north.jpg?w=630&h=420&q=75" target="_blank">always wear this style of jersey</a> to international tournaments. And hey, I knocked Sweden for doing just that a few spots ago. But these are my rankings not yours. Go make your own post if you disagree with me.</p>
<h3>3. Team Canada</h3>
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<p>The maple leaf sleeves fascinate me, what can I say? Trustworthy Canadians say they look like the logo of <a href="https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/378800000806864975/c98053d4c910a5fb1380867aa1ea53b1_400x400.png" target="_blank">a Canadian gas station</a>, and I kind of agree. That aside, I appreciate the risk Team Canada took in designing this jersey. And that's probably the only time I'll ever say I appreciate Canada, because I am a good All-American Girl™.</p>
<p>The sleeves are negative space done right -- take that Team Europe! -- and the more I look at them, the more enthralled I become. That's probably the point of them, to mesmerize opponents so they don't realize it's <span>Jonathan Toews</span> coming down the center of the ice at them. Chalk it up to the jerseys if Canada lights up opponents on the regular, not their superstar roster.</p>
<p>I don't even mind the new maple leaf logo in the center. If they're complaining so much, clearly Canadians hate sharp, modern, and fun things. Just ask <span>P.K. Subban</span>.</p>
<h3>2. Team Czech Republic</h3>
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<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/5ofg9S7BwOIcHihofesipNaUPSs=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/6139359/team_czech.0.jpg">
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<p>This is red, white and blue done right, folks. It's not innovative like Canada's maple leaves, but look at those home reds and tell me you wouldn't want to wear that. Anyone would look good in that. Even the whites, while less stylish than their counterpart, just feel like a breath of crisp fresh air.</p>
<p>You know who would look the best in this jersey? Jaromir Jagr. Please come back to us, Jagr. We miss you.</p>
<h3>1. Team North America</h3>
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</p>
<p>Sign me up for this revolution. Time to rally in the streets, demand a better living and overthrow the gover... wait that's not what these jerseys are promoting? It certainly seems like that to me.</p>
<p>The under-23s look ready to raise hell, and by the reactions to the reveal of their jersey yesterday, many fans are ready to join them. They're jerseys fit for the NHL's misfit team, one that will give us a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see this much young talent playing for each other instead of against.</p>
<p>They're the dark horses, the villains, the spoilers, and they're ready to throw some chaos and fun into a tournament that's being bandied about as anything but.</p>
https://www.sbnation.com/nhl/2016/3/3/11152630/world-cup-of-hockey-jersey-rankings-so-serious-wowMary Clarke2016-03-02T23:18:17-05:002016-03-02T23:18:17-05:00World Cup of Hockey 2016: The initial USA roster
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ByNnpQokUYRmTcyMAhwcF_PFjsk=/0x0:4915x3277/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/48985011/GettyImages-474152401.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Lars Baron/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>A roster shake-up is in order.</p> <p>The United States unveiled their initial <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/hockey-world-cup" class="sbn-auto-link">World Cup of Hockey</a> 2016 roster on Wednesday, and what they lack in star power they make up for in grit.</p>
<p>USA hockey named 12 former Olympians to the team, though more than a few notable names from USA teams past didn't make the cut. Veterans like <a href="https://www.pensburgh.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Pittsburgh Penguins</a> forward <span>Phil Kessel</span>, <a href="https://www.stlouisgametime.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">St. Louis Blues</a> captain <span>David Backes</span> and <a href="https://www.rawcharge.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Tampa Bay Lightning</a> winger <span>Ryan Callahan</span> will stay at home.</p>
<p>Here's the full roster:</p>
<table class="sbn-data-table" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Justin Abdelkader</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.wingingitinmotown.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Detroit Red Wings</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Patrick Kane</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.secondcityhockey.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Chicago Blackhawks</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Ryan Kesler</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.anaheimcalling.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Anaheim Ducks</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>T.J. Oshie</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.japersrink.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Washington Capitals</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Max Pacioretty</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.habseyesontheprize.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Montreal Canadiens</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Zach Parise</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.hockeywilderness.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Minnesota Wild</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Joe Pavelski</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.fearthefin.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">San Jose Sharks</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Derek Stepan</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.blueshirtbanter.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">New York Rangers</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Blake Wheeler</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.arcticicehockey.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Winnipeg Jets</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>D</td>
<td><span>Dustin Byfuglien</span></td>
<td>Winnipeg Jets</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>D</td>
<td><span>John Carlson</span></td>
<td>Washington Capitals</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>D</td>
<td><span>Ryan McDonagh</span></td>
<td>New York Rangers</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>D</td>
<td><span>Ryan Suter</span></td>
<td>Minnesota Wild</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>G</td>
<td><span>Ben Bishop</span></td>
<td>Tampa Bay Lightning</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>G</td>
<td><span>Jonathan Quick</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.jewelsfromthecrown.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Los Angeles Kings</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>G</td>
<td><span>Cory Schneider</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.allaboutthejersey.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">New Jersey Devils</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p> </p>
<p>Perhaps it's unsurprising that the roster looks so different this time around. A shake-up was probably in order after the USA team failed to even medal at the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/winter-olympics" class="sbn-auto-link">2014 Winter Olympics</a> in Sochi, Russia.</p>
<p>That said, leaving top defensemen like <span>Kevin Shattenkirk</span> of the Blues and <span>Justin Faulk</span> of the <a href="https://www.canescountry.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Carolina Hurricanes</a> at home (not to mention Kessel's scoring prowess) seems curious.</p>
<p style="text-align: center; letter-spacing: 0.25em">* * *</p>
<h4 style="text-align: center;"><a target="_blank" href="http://s.sbnation.com/join/zh/nhl-signup">Get the biggest NHL news, rumors and analysis in your inbox every morning!</a></h4>
https://www.sbnation.com/nhl/2016/3/2/11149492/world-cup-of-hockey-2016-here-is-the-team-usa-rosterPatrick Iversen2016-03-02T19:43:09-05:002016-03-02T19:43:09-05:00World Cup of Hockey 2016: Initial Canada roster
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/LGHfPSi8ckSJwEYY_zBYyO9D6Eo=/0x189:3450x2489/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/48983719/usa-today-7765999.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The heavyweights are unveiled. </p> <p>Team Canada <a target="_blank" href="http://www.hockeycanada.ca/en-ca/Team-Canada/Men/World-Cup/2016/Schedule-Results/Schedule">dropped their 16-man preliminary roster </a>for the 2016 <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/hockey-world-cup" class="sbn-auto-link">World Cup of Hockey</a> on Wednesday, and as expected, it is stacked.</p>
<p>The squad features 12 players who have won Olympic gold in the past, including Team Canada mainstays like <span>Sidney Crosby</span>, <span>Ryan Getzlaf</span>, <span>Duncan Keith</span> and <span>Jonathan Toews</span>. The preliminary roster also features a handful of new players in <a href="https://www.defendingbigd.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Dallas Stars</a> center <span>Tyler Seguin</span>, <a href="https://www.secondcityhockey.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Chicago Blackhawks</a> goalie <span>Corey Crawford</span> and <a href="https://www.japersrink.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Washington Capitals</a> goalie <span>Braden Holtby</span>.</p>
<p>One notable omission? <span>P.K. Subban</span>.</p>
<p>Here's the full roster:</p>
<table class="sbn-data-table" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Jamie Benn</span></td>
<td>Dallas Stars</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Patrice Bergeron</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.stanleycupofchowder.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Boston Bruins</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Jeff Carter</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.jewelsfromthecrown.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Los Angeles Kings</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>F</td>
<td>Sidney Crosby</td>
<td><a href="https://www.pensburgh.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Pittsburgh Penguins</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td>Ryan Getzlaf</td>
<td><a href="https://www.anaheimcalling.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Anaheim Ducks</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>F</td>
<td>Tyler Seguin</td>
<td>Dallas Stars</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Steven Stamkos</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.rawcharge.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Tampa Bay Lightning</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>John Tavares</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.lighthousehockey.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">New York Islanders</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td>Jonathan Toews</td>
<td>Chicago Blackhawks</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>D</td>
<td><span>Marc-Edouard Vlasic</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.fearthefin.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">San Jose Sharks</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>D</td>
<td><span>Shea Weber</span></td>
<td><a href="https://www.ontheforecheck.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Nashville Predators</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>D</td>
<td><span>Drew Doughty</span></td>
<td>Los Angeles Kings</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>D</td>
<td>Duncan Keith</td>
<td>Chicago Blackhawks</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>G</td>
<td>Corey Crawford</td>
<td>Chicago Blackhawks</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>G</td>
<td>Braden Holtby</td>
<td>Washington Capitals</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>G</td>
<td><span>Carey Price</span></td>
<td>
<a href="https://www.habseyesontheprize.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Montreal Canadiens</a><br>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p> </p>
<p>The roster will obviously undergo some changes here and there depending on injuries (some may still be recovering from offseason surgery by the time camp starts in September). No matter which way it shakes out, though, Canada will certainly remain the frontrunners when the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/fifa-womens-world-cup" class="sbn-auto-link">World Cup</a> begins on Sept. 17.</p>
https://www.sbnation.com/nhl/2016/3/2/11149626/world-cup-of-hockey-2016-here-is-the-initial-team-canada-rosterPatrick Iversen2016-03-02T13:50:14-05:002016-03-02T13:50:14-05:00World Cup of Hockey 2016: Team Sweden roster
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/CuSPE4p7YTp_zNSO65qC-f4tlTs=/53x0:3499x2297/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/48981059/usa-today-7759208.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Swedes are packing some big names in this tournament. </p> <p>It's probably fair to say Team Sweden will have the best defensive core in the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/hockey-world-cup">World Cup of Hockey</a>. Out of the rosters released so far on Wednesday, the Swedes have the most defensemen announced during the unveiling of the first 16 roster spots.</p>
<p>Six spots have been given to blue liners on Sweden's initial 16 spots, and looking down the list of names -- featuring one Norris Trophy favorite, <span>Erik Karlsson</span> -- it's hard not to see why they went with a defense-heavy preliminary cut.</p>
<table class="sbn-data-table" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td><span><span>Nicklas Backstrom</span></span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.japersrink.com/">Washington Capitals</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Loui Eriksson</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.stanleycupofchowder.com/">Boston Bruins</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Filip Forsberg</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ontheforecheck.com/">Nashville Predators</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Gabriel Landeskog</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.milehighhockey.com/">Colorado Avalanche</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Daniel Sedin</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.nucksmisconduct.com/">Vancouver Canucks</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Henrik Sedin</span></td>
<td>Vancouver Canucks</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Alexander Steen</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.stlouisgametime.com/">St. Louis Blues</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Henrik Zetterberg</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.wingingitinmotown.com/">Detroit Red Wings</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>D</td>
<td><span>Oliver Ekman-Larsson</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.fiveforhowling.com/">Arizona Coyotes</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>D</td>
<td><span>Victor Hedman</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.rawcharge.com/">Tampa Bay Lightning</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>D</td>
<td><span>Niklas Hjalmarsson</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.secondcityhockey.com/">Chicago Blackhawks</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>D</td>
<td><span>Erik Karlsson</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.silversevensens.com/">Ottawa Senators</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>D</td>
<td><span>Niklas Kronwall</span></td>
<td>Detroit Red Wings</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>D</td>
<td>
<span>Anton Stralman</span><span></span>
</td>
<td>Tampa Bay Lightning</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>G</td>
<td><span>Henrik Lundqvist</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.blueshirtbanter.com/">New York Rangers</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>G</td>
<td><span>Jacob Markstrom</span></td>
<td>Vancouver Canucks</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>If that defensive lineup doesn't strike fear into the hearts of opposing forwards, I'm not sure what will.</p>
<p>Sweden isn't lacking for offensive firepower, either. The roster boasts both Sedin twins, Boston's third-highest scorer in Eriksson and Forsberg of the Predators, who notched <a href="http://www.ontheforecheck.com/2016/2/27/11127230/watch-filip-forsberg-scores-second-natural-hat-trick-in-three-games?_ga=1.9598640.403170181.1404350342" target="_blank">two hat tricks within the span of three games</a> just last week. It's certainly the most complete roster for the tournament we've seen released thus far.</p>
<p>And that's not even looking at the goalies. With Lundqvist holding down the fort in net for Team Sweden, they just might be the team to beat in six months.</p>
https://www.sbnation.com/nhl/2016/3/2/11147018/world-cup-of-hockey-2016-initial-team-sweden-rosterMary Clarke2016-03-02T13:16:15-05:002016-03-02T13:16:15-05:00Here are your new World Cup of Hockey team logos!
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/xtBtM2vWRULpnsAmqRmGLJHPV4Q=/0x63:600x463/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/48980625/Ccj2MAqUUAID1L9.0.0.jpg" />
</figure>
<p>Get ready to critique and complain for the next six months!</p> <p>With all the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/hockey-world-cup" class="sbn-auto-link">World Cup of Hockey</a> news coming down the pipe today, the logos and jerseys of all eight teams in the tournament are probably the biggest prize of the day. How will the league design logos for two new teams? What modern spins will there be on the classics? Will Adidas ruin the sanctity of the hockey jersey?</p>
<p>That last question will have to wait until around 4 p.m. ET when Sportsnet reveals the jerseys live in an exclusive -- or you can take a look at some of the <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/TravisSBN/status/705085079601680384">leaked jerseys</a> that were <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/TravisSBN/status/705085143887831041">floating around</a> on Twitter earlier today.</p>
<p>However, Sportsnet did give us a teaser of all eight logos for the tournament, styled nicely on a hockey puck.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sneak peek at the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/fifa-womens-world-cup" class="sbn-auto-link">World Cup</a> of Hockey team logos. Watch Sportsnet at 4pmET for the unveiling of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WCH2016?src=hash">#WCH2016</a> jerseys <a href="https://t.co/kximzrIUm8">pic.twitter.com/kximzrIUm8</a></p>
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/705084028307808257">March 2, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script charset="utf-8" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"></script>
The logos of a few of them are probably familiar. The Russian coat of arms with the double-headed eagle, the triple crowns of Sweden, the crowned lion of the Czech Republic and the lesser known Finnish coat of arms with a crowned lion and swords.</p>
<p>Team USA and Canada's typical shield and leaf do get a bit of a makeover here. The U.S. logo in particular has a similar look to the newly announced <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/2016/3/1/11139732/u-s-soccers-crest-looks-exactly-like-a-youth-baseball-leagues-logo" target="_blank">USA Soccer shield</a>, while Team Canada gets a sharper and thinner maple leaf than years past.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Just me, or does the USA Hockey World Cup logo feel *a lot* like the new US Soccer crest? <a href="https://t.co/2QS8fPCILh">pic.twitter.com/2QS8fPCILh</a></p>
— Travis Hughes (@TravisSBN) <a href="https://twitter.com/TravisSBN/status/705086740642603008">March 2, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
The biggest reveals are the Pan-European team and the North Americans -- or the under-23 team. The European team is a bit harder to define, looking half like a hockey stick and half like the black and white stripes of an Adidas logo. There's probably a letter "E" in there somewhere for "Europe" too, for all we know.</p>
<p>The strange double triangle is the symbol for the North American team and bucks almost every trend of the classic logos hockey fans are accustomed to. From the strange interlocking letters and the unusual overall shape, it stands out among the logos that have adorned hockey sweaters for years. Quite right for a team with a lot to prove against the rest of the world.</p>
<p>Sadly, the logo inside the center of the puck almost certainly means the return of the <a target="_blank" href="http://cache2.asset-cache.net/gc/50829106-the-world-cup-of-hockey-trophy-is-displayed-gettyimages.jpg?v=1&c=IWSAsset&k=2&d=OCUJ5gVf7YdJQI2Xhkc2QMw2dBeW7tcgwKmKrsGA4UI6pl5ZprAhsecwS7uY90rrhDSzcwSIhloBjYP4V1IBAA%3D%3D">World Cup of Hockey trophy from 2004</a>, which looked more like a modern flower vase than sports trophy. Oh well, they can't all be winners.</p>
https://www.sbnation.com/nhl/2016/3/2/11147096/world-cup-of-hockey-logos-team-usa-canada-russia-north-americaMary Clarke2016-03-02T11:55:05-05:002016-03-02T11:55:05-05:00World Cup of Hockey 2016: Initial Team Czech roster
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/y-_ZAsKkzrPFhePWhxNGHsuLOkA=/7x0:2996x1993/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/48979985/GettyImages-472574636.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Martin Rose/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>One big name has been left off this list: Jaromir Jagr.</p> <p>You probably think 44-year-old <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.litterboxcats.com/">Florida Panthers</a> forward <span>Jaromir Jagr</span> is immortal. It's a fair case to make -- especially since he's still playing hockey at the age he is -- but even heroes have their weaknesses.</p>
<p>Jagr was left off the Team Czech Republic World Cup of Hockey roster. Not because he's bad in his old age or that the league is snubbing one of the most likable players in the NHL. Actually, Jagr retired from international play after the 2014 IIHF World Championship -- then played in the 2015 tournament before retiring again -- leaving the Czech Republic in the hands of a new, younger generation to fill his shoes.</p>
<table class="sbn-data-table" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Michael Frolik</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.matchsticksandgasoline.com/">Calgary Flames</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Martin Hanzal</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.fiveforhowling.com/">Arizona Coyotes</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Tomas Hertl</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.fearthefin.com/">San Jose Sharks</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>David Krejci</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.stanleycupofchowder.com/">Boston Bruins</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Ondrej Palat</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.rawcharge.com/">Tampa Bay Lightning</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>David Pastrnak</span></td>
<td>Boston Bruins</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Tomas Plekanec</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.habseyesontheprize.com/">Montreal Canadiens</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Vladimir Sobotka</span></td>
<td>Avangard Omsk (KHL)</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Jakub Voracek</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.broadstreethockey.com/">Philadelphia Flyers</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>D</td>
<td><span>Radko Gudas</span></td>
<td>Philadelphia Flyers</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>D</td>
<td>Michal Kempny</td>
<td>Avangard Omsk (KHL)</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>D</td>
<td><span>Roman Polak</span></td>
<td>San Jose Sharks</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>D</td>
<td><span>Andrej Sustr</span></td>
<td>Tampa Bay Lightning</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>G</td>
<td>
<span>Petr Mrazek</span><span></span>
</td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.wingingitinmotown.com/">Detroit Red Wings</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>G</td>
<td><span>Michal Neuvirth</span></td>
<td>Philadelphia Flyers</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>G</td>
<td><span>Ondrej Pavelec</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.arcticicehockey.com/">Winnipeg Jets</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Team Czech Republic features the first two non-NHLers to grace a World Cup of Hockey roster. Sobotka has played 381 games at the NHL level, but decided to play in the KHL this past season with teammate Kempny, who also makes the roster as a first timer.</p>
<p>Three Flyers are on the Czech roster, including one of last year's top five scorers in Voracek and standout backup netminder Neuvirth. Second year forward Pastrnak also gets a nod from the Bruins, signaling the new beginnings of a Czech Republic team, one without long standing stalwart Jagr -- for now.</p>
https://www.sbnation.com/nhl/2016/3/2/11146538/world-cup-of-hockey-2016-initial-team-czech-republic-rosterMary Clarke2016-03-02T11:23:43-05:002016-03-02T11:23:43-05:00World Cup of Hockey 2016: Initial Team Finland roster
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/SiZNjVVNrH5N1jM2XFwqx4jg654=/0x33:2711x1840/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/48979619/usa-today-7752995.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Scott Rovak-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Goaltenders Tuukka Rask and Pekka Rinne make up the backbone of the Finns. </p> <p>Though not as flashy as <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/2016/3/2/11145994/world-cup-of-hockey-2016-initial-team-russia-roster" target="_blank">Team Russia</a>, the Finns are often competitors right alongside their European neighbors. Team Finland won the last two Olympic bronze medals in the 2010 Vancouver games and 2014 Sochi games, besting Team USA two years ago to leave the Americans without a prize to take home.</p>
<p>They have the potential to do the same later this year in the World Cup of Hockey with the roster they ice. Sixteen of the final 23 have been announced, and there are more than a few standout names.</p>
<table class="sbn-data-table" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Mikko Koivu</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.hockeywilderness.com/">Minnesota Wild</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Jori Lehtera</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.stlouisgametime.com/">St. Louis Blues</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Aleksander Barkov</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.litterboxcats.com/">Florida Panthers</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Mikael Granlund</span></td>
<td>Minnesota Wild</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Jussi Jokinen</span></td>
<td>Florida Panthers</td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Valtteri Filppula</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.rawcharge.com/">Tampa Bay Lightning</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Leo Komarov</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.pensionplanpuppets.com/">Toronto Maple Leafs</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>F</td>
<td>Joonas Donskoi</td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.fearthefin.com/">San Jose Sharks</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Lauri Korpikoski</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.coppernblue.com/">Edmonton Oilers</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Teuvo Teravainen</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.secondcityhockey.com/">Chicago Blackhawks</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>D</td>
<td><span>Olli Maatta</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.pensburgh.com/">Pittsburgh Penguins</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>D</td>
<td><span>Rasmus Ristolainen</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.diebytheblade.com/">Buffalo Sabres</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>D</td>
<td><span>Sami Vatanen</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.anaheimcalling.com/">Anaheim Ducks</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>D</td>
<td>
<span>Esa Lindell</span><span> </span>
</td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.defendingbigd.com/">Dallas Stars</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-even">
<td>G</td>
<td><span>Tuukka Rask</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.stanleycupofchowder.com/">Boston Bruins</a></td>
</tr>
<tr class="ui-state-odd">
<td>G</td>
<td><span>Pekka Rinne</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ontheforecheck.com/">Nashville Predators</a></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Team Finland has a good balance of veterans and youngsters, including the new $5.9 million dollar man in 20-year-old Barkov. Though the Finns don't have the firepower of the Russians, they make up for it with solid goaltending -- yes even Rinne is still capable of that -- and defense.</p>
<p>The roster is very similar to the one Team Finland iced for the latest Olympics, though of course missing the greats in <span>Teemu Selanne</span> and Kimmo Timonen. This team is one that's had success in the past and with additions of key players in Teravainen and Filppula on offense, the Finns could have more of an offensive spark than before.</p>
https://www.sbnation.com/nhl/2016/3/2/11145918/world-cup-of-hockey-2016-initial-team-finland-rosterMary Clarke2016-03-02T10:45:58-05:002016-03-02T10:45:58-05:00World Cup of Hockey 2016: Initial Team Russia roster
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/pesjzdweRGecnmvLGvQxHtGoUcw=/0x105:3000x2105/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/48978893/GettyImages-473645526.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Martin Rose/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Alex Ovechkin highlights the high-scoring Russian World Cup roster.</p> <p>We're just over six months away from the World Cup of Hockey, and it's time to get a glimpse of each of the eight teams slated to play in the tournament. Wednesday, March 2 marks the day where we'll get our first look not only at the new Adidas jerseys the teams will be wearing, but who makes the initial cut for the rosters.</p>
<p>With <a href="http://www.pensionplanpuppets.com/2016/3/1/11143734/world-cup-of-hockey-roster-announcement-times-and-broadcast-schedule" target="_blank">a rolling announcement list,</a> Team Russia's initial rosters were made final at the bright and sunny hour of 3 a.m. ET. The first 16 spots will be set for every team by the end of the day, with the last five coming before the finalized rosters on June 1.</p>
<table border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Artem Anisimov</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.secondcityhockey.com/">Chicago Blackhawks</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Pavel Datsyuk</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.wingingitinmotown.com/">Detroit Red Wings</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Nikita Kucherov</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.rawcharge.com/">Tampa Bay Lightning</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Nikolay Kulemin</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.lighthousehockey.com/">New York Islanders</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Evgeny Kuznetsov</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.japersrink.com/">Washington Capitals</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Evgeni Malkin</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.pensburgh.com/">Pittsburgh Penguins</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Vladislav Namestnikov</span></td>
<td>Tampa Bay Lightning</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Alex Ovechkin</span></td>
<td>Washington Capitals</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Artemi Panarin</span></td>
<td>Chicago Blackhawks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>F</td>
<td><span>Vladimir Tarasenko</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.stlouisgametime.com/">St. Louis Blues</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>D</td>
<td><span>Dmitry Kulikov</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.litterboxcats.com/">Florida Panthers</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>D</td>
<td><span>Andrei Markov</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.habseyesontheprize.com/">Montreal Canadiens</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>D</td>
<td><span>Dmitry Orlov</span></td>
<td>Washington Capitals</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>G</td>
<td><span>Sergei Bobrovsky</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.jacketscannon.com/">Columbus Blue Jackets</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>G</td>
<td><span>Semyon Varlamov</span></td>
<td><a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.milehighhockey.com/">Colorado Avalanche</a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>G</td>
<td><span>Andrei Vasilevskiy</span></td>
<td>Tampa Bay Lightning</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>With names like Ovechkin and Malkin, the Russian contingent will be one of the more potent offensive teams in the tournament. Three Capitals are in the mix, along with two Blackhawks, including leading rookie scorer Panarin -- who was ineligible for the under-23 roster as he is 24.</p>
<p>The biggest hole for Russia is definitely its defense and the trio of Bobrovsky, Varlamov and Vasilevskiy will have their work cut out for them in net helping to hide the glaring weakness of their team. Still, with Team Russia's high octane offense, it might not matter if it can outscore its opponent every night.</p>
https://www.sbnation.com/nhl/2016/3/2/11145994/world-cup-of-hockey-2016-initial-team-russia-rosterMary Clarke