So it's the Olympic open thread but today there's not a lot to be open for.  Just two events today, the 50k mass start and then the hockey.  The 50k almost breaks your heart to think about.  They bring along a guy to become the first ever person to compete in both the Olympics and Paralympics and then pull out the rug.  I've been cheering that cross-country men's team for these Olympics and although there might be four guys better, if Brain McKeever is a part of your team how is it that one of the four guys who have raced a bunch already won't step aside?  Pretty disheartening.

That aside, Canada has had a wonderful Games overall on the strength of a monster second week.  Three golds yesterday probably wasn't how it was drawn up, but wow what a day.  The men's speed skaters with further redemption.  Jasey-Jay Anderson overwhelmed with emotion at finally getting his medal.  And Kevin Martin.  The man finally did it and that coy smile on his face at the end said it all.  A hearty congratulations!  You too John Morris, Marc Kennedy and Ben Hebert!  All four were great this whole time, and frankly, even beyond that. 

And now, unbelievably, Canada has tied the record for most gold medals in a Winter Olympics and will be trying to break the record today.  I'd say it puts more pressure on the hockey team but I doubt that's true.  At some point, the pressure is what it is and it's not going to get more stressful unless you're putting a guy's life on the line or something.  The record probably just adds a "cool" factor and might even make them feel a bit more like they're a part of the overall team since it would truly be a "whole team" accomplishment.

The Americans have been really good in the tournament but didn't deserve to win the only time they played one of the best.  They have nice depth at forward, not as good as the Canadians, but no one that should be overwhelmed and a really physical club.  There will be no soft minutes - by any definition - today.  Ryan Miller has of course been very good this season and in these Olympics.  The Canadians are probably 60/40 to win at this point, which is pretty much the best case scenario. 

So let's go Canada!  Come on now!  One more game to win it all!

Schedule:

Canada v. United States 1:15 p.m. MST