The Czech Republic loses to Switzerland, the Americans skate to a tie with Latvia, the Russians lose to the Slovaks then thrub the Swedes -- what the heck is going on in the Olympic hockey tournament?!?!?!

Less than two full days into group play, the Olympic hockey tournament is shaping up to be a doozy.  Olympic hockey has historically had one storyline -- is it going to be Canada, the US or Russia?  But in the 1990's things got interesting with the Swedes taking gold in '94 and the Czechs winning in '98.  The way this year's tournament is shaping up it could be anyone's game.  So far the Slovaks look strong with two wins under their belts.  The Canadians are just getting under way with Germany and should have no problem dispensing them.  Although the struggled early against Italy, so who knows what could happen.

Some key injuries could further impact the way the tournament shakes out.  Czech Slinky Dominik Hasek left yesterday's game with a hamstring pull.  Peter Forsberg is in Turin but has yet to skate for Sweden due to a groin strain and may not play at all.  Much to the chagrin of NHL executives back home, more injuries are sure to occur as play goes on.

So far this tournament has more drama than anything NBC has tried to shove down viewers throats.  While the games are being broadcast during the day on MSNBC, it's sad that primetime viewers aren't at least being treated to highlight reels.  After all, if we're being subjected to roller derby on ice, couldn't we at least get 10 minutes of highlights of a sport most viewers know and possibly care about?