Brooks Orpik, Team USA defenseman, is gaining position in the defensive zone as a Canadian forward is flying down the boards. Typically, Orpik would close ground between himself and the forward, then separate the puck with ruthless efficiency.
This case is a little different: the Canadian forward is Sidney Crosby, Orpik's teammate and captain of the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Does Orpik play for national glory and dislodge the puck from his captain, or does he concentrate on his NHL goals and try not to hurt him?
This scenario was played out on Sunday in the USA vs. Canada game. Both players acted as I thought they would: Orpik laid two devastating checks on Crosby in one shift, while Crosby took a high-sticking penalty against his teammate.
These types of scenarios happen many times during the Olympic Games. Teammates and friends are typically placed in one another's path to national glory: a gold medal.
Teammates form strong bonds out of necessity i ...
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Article written by Corry Fatigante