The Pittsburgh Penguins will be represented well in the Olympics. Even through all of the injuries this team has played through, this team sits atop the Eastern Conference, which means the Penguins have a plethora of players attending Sochi next month.
Team Canada
Sidney Crosby was a lock from day one and should be Captain Canada as he leads the NHL in scoring and is by far the best player on the planet. This will be the second Olympics for Crosby, who scored the overtime goal in the gold-medal game in 2010.
Steve Yzerman called left winger Chris Kunitz a, “Tremendous player” who is tied with Crosby for the league lead in goals. Kunitz has been on fire this year as his chemistry with Crosby is undeniable. Furthermore, vaulting him towards his first selection to team Canada.
Team Russia
The resurgent Evgeni Malkin will play for Russia in his third Olympics. Malkin is one player who has been hit by the injury bug and a goal drought. Through all of it, Malkin has 44 points in 33 games this season.
Team Finland
Jussi Jokinen will be attending Sochi next month with Finland. Jokinen won a silver medal in 2006. He has 30 points in 44 games this season with the Penguins.
Olli Maatta, the 19-year-old rookie sensation will be making his Olympic debut. He has played every game this season for the penguins and has scored 13 points and one penalty shot goal.
Team USA
Penguins defensemen Paul Martin is still recovering from injury but should be good to go in Sochi. Brooks Orpik has returned from injury and will be ready to represent Team USA. These two players will be joined by head coach Dan Bylsma and assistant coach Tony Granato.
The hockey portion of the 2014 Winter Olympic Games will begin on Feb. 12 when group play opens up.
