Pittsburgh Penguins Olympics Report Card: Grading The Performances In Sochi
By Matt Gajtka
Brooks Orpik was a controversial selection to Team USA, but he turned in a workmanlike performance despite the team’s disappointing finish. (Credit: USA Today Sports)
Paul Martin: B+/Incomplete
In another instance of poor health luck for the Penguins, Martin sustained a hand injury in the USA’s quarterfinal win over the Czech Republic and had to sit out the subsequent losses to Canada and Finland. It’s reported that Martin could miss at least a month to the injury, hamstringing the Penguins for a while, but I’d argue the Americans suffered the more significant loss by not having him around for the end of the Olympics.
Martin, who played the third-most minutes among USA defensemen, was right at home on the international ice surface. His mobility and intelligence helped the Americans roll to four straight wins to start the tournament, as they outscored their opponents 20-6. It’s naive to think Martin would’ve made a big difference against the Canadian juggernaut, but considering how well goalie Jonathan Quick played to keep the game tight, maybe a subtle move from Martin could have turned things.
The 32-year-old Minnesotan will likely not get another Olympic opportunity, but he was a large part of Team USA’s success at even strength and on the penalty kill. Although Martin’s Sochi experience ended in disappointment, he proved he deserved to represent his country.
Brooks Oprik: C
Orpik’s place on the team, however, could and will continue to be debated. While I didn’t see him as the disaster many observers thought he’d be, you could argue that a more explosive defenseman like Keith Yandle or even Dustin Byfuglien would have given the United States a difference-maker against tougher opponents.
Still, while Orpik was partially responsible for a couple defensive breakdowns, his familiarity with defense partner Martin was a saving grace. Orpik may not have contributed in the offensive third of the ice, but he didn’t give up much in his own end, either.
Put it this way: Orpik wasn’t the Americans’ problem in their late failings against Canada and Finland. It’s tough to play good enough defense to win when your team scores exactly zero goals.
Keep it here on City of Champions as we look at Dan Bylsma‘s performance behind the Team USA bench later this week.