Predicting The 2014 USA Olympic Hockey Team: Who Makes The Cut?

Mar. 30, 2012; Columbus, OH, USA; An American flag is projected onto the ice during the signing of the national anthem prior to the game between the Florida Panthers and Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

With the 2014 Winter Olympics only one year away it’s already prediction time. The defending Olympic silver medalists from Vancouver will boast another impressive squad next year in Russia. Here are my projections for who will make the final cut for Team USA:

Forwards

The forward group showcases a plethora of speed, size, and skill. Team USA’s size and strength up front will cause plenty of headaches for opposing defenders. Their depth at forward is no doubt the strength of this club.

Zach Parise

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David Backes

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Patrick Kane

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Jason Pominville

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Joe Pavelski

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Phil Kessel

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Max Pacioretty

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Ryan Kesler

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Bobby Ryan

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James van Riemsdyk

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T.J. Oshie

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Dustin Brown

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Forwards On The Bubble

Paul Stastny

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Brandon Dubinsky

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Defense

USA’s blueline will be as competitive as any in the tournament. Like their forwards, these are physically imposing d-men who can skate. Moving the puck quickly and efficiently to their forwards will pose no problems for this backend.

Ryan Suter

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Dustin Byfuglien

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Keith Yandle

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Kevin Shattenkirk

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Ryan McDonagh

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Jack Johnson

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Defensemen On The Bubble

Justin Faulk

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Brooks Orpik

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Goalies

The biggest question surrounding the United States will be their goaltending. Can Jonathan Quick regain his Stanley Cup form from last season? Will Ryan Miller be able to find his game that made him the best goalie in the 2010 Olympic tournament? Team USA’s goaltending could be the difference between being on or off the podium come Sochi 2014.

Jonathan Quick