by Brett Jamieson

Created on: January 28, 2010

Each year, players and fans alike look forward to the Stanley Cup Playoffs in the NHL, and consider it the pinnacle of competition, with some of the toughest, most spirited games in history coming in the Stanley Cup Finals. However, every four years, nationalism is thrown into this mix, to create probably the most emotionally charged tournament in hockey. This year's tournament should not disappoint anyone, when it comes to emotion, but also boast most likely the highest level of parity among the nations that anyone (certainly I) can remember. There are probably two "favourites" in Canada and Russia, but not far behind at all, and on very even turf, are Finland, Sweden, USA, Czech Republic and Slovakia, who have all been genuine medal contenders (and winners) in the past, but not always at the same time. 

I will provide a preview and short analysis for each contender to get you ready for the tournament.

Canada

Playing host this year, the government of Canada funded a program called "Own the Podium" in the years leading up to the Olympics with hopes of, for the first time, garnering more medals than any other nation. This just adds to the permanent and lasting pressure for Steve Yzerman and Co. to capture gold, with the country that constantly chants "hockey is Canada's game" wreathing for a victory after the disappointing showing in Turin.

Forwards

 Without a doubt, Yzerman was looking for diversity and players to play to their strengths in choosing the offensive group he put together. This is quite evident in his choice of players like Brendan Morrow and Patrice Bergeron. But there is no denying the depth of skill and firepower on this roster. With world class players like Sidney Crosby, Ryan Getzlaf and Eric Staal, part of the new-age NHL, lining up with Olympic veterans Jerome Iginla, Rick Nash, Dany Heatley and Joe Thornton, Team Canada should not have too much trouble finding the back of the net. The mix of players also brings the complementary skills like the physicality of Morrow, Iginla and Getzlaf with the defensive prowess of Mike Richards and Bergeron to create a well rounded squad of forwards.

Other forwards on the Canadian roster include Patrick Marleau, Jonathan Toews, and Corey Perry.

Defense

 Looking at the members of the Canadian defensive corps, it is hard to argue that Team Canada will have the strongest defense in the tournament. With possibly the best defensive pairing in the NHL, in Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook, lining

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