To defend Armia a little, he's had quite the year, especially the last 6 months with 2 concussions and military service, which I think ended this month. So I don't think he's ruined just yet, but he needs a fresh start for next season that's for sure.
Curious as to why you think this? He has all the tools to be a 1st line player, I dont see him becoming much worse than a 20 goal scorer in the league.
I hope he becomes a first line player but statisticly he hasnt really improved offensively and he's so one dimensional.
I hope he becomes a first line player but statisticly he hasnt really improved offensively and he's so one dimensional.
First, I think you're exaggerating a bit to fit your argument. I haven't read he's a defensive liability, even if he's not yet a strong defensive forward...at 19 years old (a point that can't be underscored enough when talking about what a player definitely will or won't be at this stage of development). Second, if he's going to be one-dimensional, scoring goals is a pretty good one dimension to have; Thomas Vanek has made it pretty far with his one dimension. And Armia may have what Vanek allegedly never had: a "true" number-1 center.
Can we just say that Armia has great offensive ability but he needs to work on his consistency a bit? Or is that too measured for those in the business of labeling players stars or busts based on limited viewings of their play as teenagers?
Armia definitely has trouble finding that consistency. I watched last nights game and he would try so many high risk plays, it's very frustrating to watch. That said, he's 19 and I believe in the kid, I'm sure he'll figure it out.
I guess I am the only one who thinks Arima is a much better player than last year.
I haven't watched him extensively, from what I've seen in the WJC this year, he did everything right in the Canada game, simple plays without trying to get overly fancy, then for some reason he started regressing back to the low percentage plays for some reason and playing with less intensity.
Two goals in two games is quite disappointing for Team USA. Especially considering Canada gave up 3 goals to Slovakia and ****ing Germany. They just don't make any play offensively.
I haven't watched him extensively, from what I've seen in the WJC this year, he did everything right in the Canada game, simple plays without trying to get overly fancy, then for some reason he started regressing back to the low percentage plays for some reason and playing with less intensity.
Could you elaborate on how he is a better player?
I know the question wasn't directed at me but I have a similar feeling. 3 years ago when he was 'on' he was one of the better players. Now, as he was in the Canada game, he can completely control the play. His body is developing and he's starting to use it more to make plays happen. However he still has his Hand grenade nights and that's something that will need to be fixed before he can be a reliable NHLer. My only concern is that Buffalo isn't exactly known for being able to coax consistency from it's players. Will we be able to win if both our top goal scorers (Armia, Vanek) disappear for weeks at a time during the season? I think Hodgson and Grigorenko will be the deciding factors. In a league driven by center play having 2 excellent playmakers at the pivot might just cover up for their deficiencies.
Armia takes offensive-zone penalty--insert Vanek joke here--and Sweden puts the nail in the coffin on ensuing PP. Didn't love the call, but it was consistent with ticky-tack nature of reffing in this tourney.
For what it's worth to anyone, in this Canada-Russia game, a Russian player (don't really know their names too well... sorry, I think it was Nichushkin) got 5-and-a-game for a hit from behind, and they had Grigs serve the penalty. I don't think he's had a second of PK time in this game, so I guess they liked him on a potential breakaway out of the box.
Also, Makarov has been pretty good. Really hard to fault him on the 3 goals he's let in so far - two of them were during the aforementioned 5 minute powerplay.
Surprised Makarov didn't get player of the game for Russia. The Russians get a break with Switzerland in the quarters. They're a more consistent club, but Finland would be a scary opponent if they brought their A-game. Also, it appears there's a lot of "Drouin over MacKinnon" talk right now. I <3 small sample sizes.
Semis
CZE/USA winner vs CAN
RUS/SUI winner vs SWE
I'm excited to see Faksa and Hertl, both of whom were talked about a lot around these parts leading up to the 2012 Draft.
Russia has been very unimpressive. They got outplayed extensively by both USA and Canada.
As frustrating as the games against Russia and Canada were, I'm still very optimistic. The US out-shot Canada while sustaining 25 more penalty minutes. They can play with anybody, and if they can just find some chemistry on offense they're still a threat to win gold IMO.
Easily the best team since the Gold medal winning one.
