In the matchup for the gold medal of the 2010 Winter Olympics, the Canadian hockey team redeemed themselves in their home country.   Canada was the number one ranked team at the start of the Olympics, but after a stunning 5-3 loss to the United States on February 21st, they had lost their intimidation.

Ryan Miller of the United States has been the most consistent goalie in the NHL so far this season, and his dominance continued through the Olympics.  Miller won MVP of the tournament after saving 95 percent of the shots put his way.

In the gold medal game, the Canadians jumped out to a 2-0 lead midway through the second period.  The U.S. knew time was running out, and scored a goal off of a deflection to cut the deficit in half.

With 30 seconds left in the game, Zach Parise on the United States scored off of a rebound to push the game into overtime. 

In the 4-on-4 sudden death period, Canada took over.  After failing to split a double team, Sydney Crosby regained possession of the puck and executed a give and go with teammate Eric Staal.  The NHL star received the pass and shot one through Ryan Miller’s five hole for the gold medal and an eternal place in the Canadian record book.

After the three week layoff from the regular season, NHL play has now restarted.  And players and coaches are hopeful the Olympic story will help the NHL gain popularity.