Ilya Bryzgalov to Become a Dual Goaltender Threat for Team Russia

December 25th, 2009 by Derek Pivko Leave a reply »
It came to no surprise when Ilya Bryzgalov's name was announced to Team Russia Olympic roster.

Bryzgalov, who leads the NHL with five shutouts and is tied for third place in wins (21), is expected to backup San Jose Sharks goalie Evgeni Nabokov in net when the Olympics begin in February.

Despite the Phoenix Coyotes defeating twice Nabokov (a finalist for last year’s Vezina trophy) this season, it appears as though Nabokov will be named as the top goaltender for Team Russia.

Bryzgalov was the only member of the Coyotes to be named to the 23-man roster of Team Russia which includes sharpshooters Alex Ovechkin, Evgeni Malkin, and Ilya Kovalchuk.

This will be Bryzgalov’s second trip to the Olympic Games. In 2002 Bryzgalov earned a Bronze medal for Team Russia.

Team Russia and Team Canada are the favorites heading into the Winter Olympics.

Team Canada is looking for revenge after Bryzgalov helped Team Russia defeat Team Canada during the 2009 Men’s World Hockey Championship game.

The only goal Bryzgalov gave up during the game came from his Coyote teammate Shane Doan.

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