It looks like the United States isn’t planning on splitting its goaltending duties.
The team went with Los Angeles Kings goaltender Jonathan Quick against Slovakia and after he led them to a 7-1 victory, America will stay with him versus Russia on Saturday, according to the Canadian Press’ Stephen Whyno.
Russia has a scary offense, but Quick is certainly worthy of this opportunity. Over the past few years he’s excelled with the Kings and has elevated his game in high pressure situations like the playoffs. He has won the Stanley Cup and Conn Smythe Trophy.
At the same time, it is interesting that the United States has been using him as its number one goaltender when it was Ryan Miller that took the 2010 Olympic underdogs all the way to the gold medal game with his superb play. Miller had a 1.35 GAA and .946 save percentage in that tournament and at the age of 33, he remains one of the best netminders in the sport.
After its contest against Russia, the United States will conclude its preliminary round schedule with a match against Slovenia on Sunday.
Ryan Miller says he’s trying not to take being Quick’s backup as a slight. “I’m on this team for a reason.” #CPSochi
— Stephen Whyno (@SWhyno) February 14, 2014