Ready for some college hockey?
Quick hits
I’m considering investing in a cot that I can leave at Joe Louis Arena, because I’m starting to wonder if there’s any point to leaving the building this weekend. The Great Lakes Invitational kicks off tonight (read our preview here), which means two great days of college hockey at the Joe. Then, the Wings take on the Blues in their annual New Year’s Eve game. So I’m looking at three long-but-awesome days at Joe Louis Arena, and I hope you keep coming back to the site to see what you’ve missed.
Team USA will be skating with some new-found pressure for the rest of the preliminary round of the World Juniors, after losing to Finland 4-1 last night. The loss puts them at 1-1 for the tournament, which means they will need strong performances against the Czech Republic on Friday, and Canada on Saturday, if they wish to advance in the prestigious tournament. We’ll have more coverage of last night’s game shortly.
Highlight reel
It might not be the American team, but I thought this was a pretty cool commercial, no matter which team you’re cheering for this World Juniors season.
Outside the Mitten
Former U of M star Andrew Ebbett scored the game-winner for the Canucks last night, making him our Michi-gamer of the night.
Pittsburgh coach (and Michigan native) Dan Bylsma says that Sidney Crosby is still experiencing concussion-like symptoms.
Team Canada beat the Czechs 5-0 in their second game of the World Juniors last night.
Check it out
ESPN says that the Oilers’ Ryan Nugent-Hopkins is their NEXT NHL star.
Next up
We will have a live blog of all the GLI action tonight, and post-game coverage as well. Also keep an eye on our Twitter page for in-game reporting.