SOCHI, Russia – Back when Canada was squeaking past Finland in overtime, Mike Babcock was telling us to relax, that the scores in the Olympic tournament would be close, that everything was unfolding according to plan.
Let’s be honest: the lack of goals was worrying. It’s one thing to be going to extra time with the Finns; they’re an established hockey nation. But when you pelt a Latvian goaltender, who dropped out of the East Coast Hockey League, with 55 shots and emerge with only two goals, it suggests a flaw in your offensive plan; something systemic.
Well, tip your hat everyone. Canada’s strategy of taking the game to the middle of the ice—limiting opposition chances in their own end while creating havoc around the crease at the other end—has been vindicated.
We can’t delve too deeply, here: a very big, very Olympic issue of the magazine awaits. But there’s a case to be made that this wonderful medal is a greater coaching masterpiece than the gold Canada won in Vancouver. That one was all about psychology, keeping players level amid a cauldron of nationalistic fervour.
This was about hockey, and not just any hockey. It was about hockey as played nine or 12 time zones away, by players and coaches who “get” game on an intellectual level. That applies nowhere more so than in Sweden. They might not be as maniacally attached to it as Canadians, but they do love it. And they do love winning.
For now, though, let’s enjoy the two-fer: Two straight shutouts. Two straight golds for Canada, marking the first time that’s been done since the Soviets owned Olympic hockey. Two for the great Sidney Crosby, who as ever, came through when it counted most.
Pure gold, people. Pure gold.