Before Alex came Peter - Olympic Underdog pick

As many people know, the sun rises and sets around the great number 8 here in DC. Alex Ovechkin has taken the NHL by storm. Watching the rivalry of Crosby vs Ovechkin is what makes hockey so exciting for many of us these days. Washington Capitals hockey has inspired a nation that was dying for hockey to make a comeback. But before #8 came Peter the Great. The NHL was once ruled by a man named Peter Forsberg, much like Ovie, Peter is most known for his passing, physical play, and incredible hands. His 19-year professional career includes 13 years in the NHL, where he won two Stanley Cups and the Hart Memorial Trophy in 2003. He is an international icon now on the Swedish national team, winning two World Championships and two Olympic hockey gold medals. As of the end of the 2008–09 NHL season, he is the fourth-highest all-time Swedish point scorer in the NHL regular season.In each of his 12 NHL seasons, Forsberg has never had a negative plus-minus rating, totaling an overall career rating of plus 242. The only problem with a player this great is that he took too many licks to get there...and he can't stay healthy. Between injury (he has had many foot problems as well) and salary caps, Peter has left the states and went back to where his god status was recognized and will be appreciated until he leaves the game old, gray and with a permanent limp. I think Sweden even has Peter Forsberg money printed they love him so much. With all that being said, Sweden not only has Forsberg, but a supporting cast that could help drive home the gold. Peter now has Alexander Ovechkins right hand man, Nicklas Backstrom, the Sedin twins - wow. Put Henrik Lundqvist behind them and wrap it all up with one of the biggest hitters in the league...Niklas Kronwall (have you ever seen a man get Kronwalled? If not, check out youtube and watch this guy hit)and you have a serious metal contender. If they can keep everyone healthy, it is possible for this underdog to snuff out the home team hopeful's, the long shot Americans, and the Russian powerhouse.