VANCOUVER - The panic that has extended across the country over the play of the Canadian men's Olympic hockey team in Vancouver has not invaded the inner sanctum of Sidney Crosby and the rest of the Canadian players. Less than 24 hours after their disappointing 5-3 loss the rival United States, the Canadian players emerged from an afternoon practice a confident bunch.

VANCOUVER - When Canada and the United States clash on Sunday, there will be plenty of teammates like Chicago Blackhawks' Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane facing off against each another. But how about the predicament Sidney Crosby and Mike Richards find themselves in? The bitter rivals are playing on the same line for Canada, as least to start the final game of the preliminary round for both teams.

VANCOUVER - The fencing between NHL commissioner Gary Bettman and IIHF president Rene Fasel over the participation of NHL players at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia, continued in Vancouver on Thursday. Fasel went as far as to grovel in front of Bettman for the next Winter Games.

VANCOUVER - Jennifer Botterill made a salient point about the state of women's hockey. She remarked that the women's game continues to grow around the world, and countries outside Canada and the United States continue to progress. But the fact is, the Canadian women also have advanced their game and their depth.

Steve Yzerman made no bones about it that Sidney Crosby will be Canada's go-to player at the Vancouver Olympics.

The 22-year-old Crosby is second in the league with 41 goals and third in points at 76. He has scored seven times in his past five games.