Paul Bissonnette, a former NHL enforcer turned media personality, recently shared his insights on the upcoming Winter Olympics hockey tournament. As a host of Barstool Sports’ “Spittin’ Chiclets” podcast, Bissonnette expressed strong support for Team Canada, which is regarded as a favorite to clinch gold at the Olympics.
Olympic Hockey Gold Prediction
Team Canada has odds of +115 at DraftKings, while Team USA follows with +175. In a light-hearted remark, Bissonnette declared, “Go Canada, b–ch,” emphasizing his desire for Canada to achieve a decisive victory over the USA. He hopes for a scoreline reflecting Canada’s dominance in hockey history, envisioning a 7-1 rout in the final.
Key Factors for Team Canada
- Goaltending: Bissonnette highlighted the importance of solid goaltending from the outset to avoid pressure on the team.
- Line Combinations: The team needs to establish effective line configurations, balancing the talents of their centers and wingers.
Bissonnette pointed out that while Canada boasts a wealth of talent, the challenge lies in finding the right positions for top players who typically play center, suggesting that adaptability will be crucial as the tournament progresses.
Team USA’s Competitive Edge
Looking at Team USA, Bissonnette described their current roster as possibly the strongest in their history. He noted the dilemma they face with choosing the right players for their power play, specifically comparing Quinn Hughes and Zach Werenski for quarterbacking roles.
- Key Players: The inclusion of gritty players like JT Miller and Vincent Trocheck adds depth to the lineup.
Bissonnette emphasized that these players will play a significant role in challenging Canadian forwards during matches.
Potential Dark Horses
When discussing underdog teams, Bissonnette mentioned Slovakia, which recently upset Finland, creating an unpredictable dynamic in Group B. He also pointed to Germany as a team to watch, particularly due to the prowess of Leon Draisaitl.
As Team Canada fortifies its status as tournament favorites, the high stakes of Olympic hockey promise thrilling matchups ahead, with Bissonnette’s insights spotlighting the key elements that could shape the tournament’s outcome.
