T.J. Oshie's American Message

Last night, I ended up not making it out to the bars or anything like meaning I could definitely start the morning fresh. Before I went to bed, I decided to wake up at 6:30 to watch United States and Russia. I made some coffee and began my morning. This might have been my best decision of 2014 as the U.S. played a classic with Russia winning 3-2 in an overtime shootout with T.J. Oshie becoming an American hero with the United States putting everyone on notice.

For casual fans of hockey, Oshie was an unknown heading into this game. I knew the name, but truth be told, I had no real idea about Oshie's game. I did not know Oshie had the stick skills he showed during the overtime period. He showed so much composure just taking his time and doing his thing. If Oshie missed a shot, he bounced right back and went for it again. After making the game-winner in the bottom of the eighth, Oshie is a household name all over the United States this morning.  It is hard not be taken aback by Oshie and want to rally behind him for the rest of the year. Whenever a U.S. team is involved and winning, they need something to rally behind and we have it now. Oshie makes people want to believe this team could have gold in their future. Let's look at the reactions when he scored the winner.

From Virginia


From Marquette (Fans should be WELL lubricated for Xavier today)


Parts unknown, props to the video guy starting the USA chant.


Columbus, Ohio


Parts unknown.



United States does not usually beat a team like Russia thus the significance of this game is more important than a usual round robin game. Before the Olympics, Russia and Canada were likely the favorites with United States likely being a supporting cast member that would need a couple breaks here or there to get involved with the medal process.  Now, United States seems to be more of a favorite than they were when this tournament started. Other than a couple players, James Van Riemsdyk, Jonathan Quick, Oshie, U.S. did not really play their cleanest game and they still found a way to win. They could lock up a bye to the semifinals and likely avoid a showdown with Russia or Canada in the semifinal round if they could beat Slovenia tomorrow morning.
 
Slovenia is not a team of slouches either led by Anze Kopitar, one of best players in the NHL. United States cannot come in hungover for this one. They will be the quarterfinal round already, but they could earn a much-needed bye if they were to beat Slovenia. But for now, people will remembered the greatness that is T.J. Oshie as he etched his name in American hockey yore. Good way to start a Saturday.

Charlie.