WJC: End of first period, Tied at 0

Line of the day, from Gord Miller: "We'd like to wish a speedy recovery to the thousands of Canadians who called in sick to work today"...the pace of the first period has been hectic and crazy. These kids are really, really busting it right now...too many scoring chances to count and both goalies have been outstanding...Steve Mason for Canada weathered a quick start by the US with both Kyle Okposo and Rhett Rakshani making quite an impression...my four year old niece is actually watching and she never sits still for anything!

More to come if I can. Great game so far.

DiPietro & Martinek Updates; Okposo signed!

Greg Logan is reporting that the results of Rick's MRI showed that there was "no significant structural damage" to his left knee. We'll see if he plays tomorrow night vs. the Devils.

Also, Shawn Bates' season is over after two games. Bates had hip surgery before Christmas and is out for the year. First I had heard of the surgery, too. The Isles take the line Bill Belichick does with the Pats and don't offer much regarding injuries.

Radek Martinek is also listed as day-to-day (but aren't we all) and is rocking a walking cast on his right leg. I guess this means more lessons from Professor Witt for young master Bruno Gervais.

The big news today is that Kyle Okposo signed his entry-level contract and will be with the Isles at the end of the World Junior Championships. Okposo has, from all accounts, been playing well for the US team, with a goal and two assists. American teammate (and Islander prospect) Rhett Rakshani scored in the US opener and is playing on a line with Okposo.

Robin Figren of Sweden has 3 goals and an assist for four points. Sweden faces tournament overlord Canada tomorrow at 1:30 eastern time. Check out his freakish goal below.