At every World Junior Championship, there are always surprises.
The biggest surprise so far was Latvia’s victory against Canada in the first match of the preliminary round.
It shocked many people, me first and foremost.
When you have a team as well endowed as that with so many first round picks, it seems impossible to lose to the Latvians.
Effort and intensity made the difference in this match, but it was especially goalkeeper Linards Feldbergs who was more than incredible.
In short, the whole team played very well and it paid off.
On the other hand, the players and staff members were not simply rewarded by this victory.
Indeed, Elvis Merzlikins joined the management of Latvia to tell them that he was inviting them all to eat at a steakhouse in Ottawa.
A very nice gesture from the Columbus Blue Jackets goalie.
Merzlikins called the team by Zoom while she took advantage of the goalie’s milking to congratulate them.
Bruce Garrioch of theOttawa Sun has also confirmed that they ate at Giovanni’s, a chic restaurant.
For those who know the restaurant, it’s really not that bad of a restaurant choice.
This must have motivated even more the young Latvians, who must be overflowing with confidence at the moment.
When’s my invitation, Elvis?
In burst
– Finally a return to the game for the Quebecer.
– A first in the NHL.
– It’s official: One of the best prospects in the next draft is leaving Russia to join the USHL.
– That makes them interested teams.
– Klay Thompson responded beautifully.
