Canada wins hockey gold as Shea Weber named an Olympic All-Star

In a game that will have hockey fans talking for years to come, Sidney Crosby scored in overtime to lift Canada to a gold medal over a gritty, determined American squad that tied the game in the final minutes and threatened to repeat the US Olympic championships of 1960 and 1980.

Blueshirt Banter has a fine recap of the action, but what Nashville's hockey fans can take to heart is the incredible job that their top two defenseman, Shea Weber and Ryan Suter, did over the last two weeks:

Shea Weber

#6 / Defenseman / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-4

Weight: 230

Born: Aug 14, 1985

His world-class slapshot was a primary weapon for Team Canada, and his steady defensive work had him 2nd on his team in ice time. His goal against Germany which literally blew through the net, is sure to become part of Canadian hockey legend. He was named by the media to the All-Star Team from the Olympic tournament.

Ryan Suter

#20 / Defenseman / Nashville Predators

Height: 6-1

Weight: 194

Born: Jan 21, 1985

Suter, whose calm, steady game sometimes leaves him too-often overlooked when discussing the game's top defenders, was the foundation on the American blueline. He soaked up massive ice time in all situations, and consistently helped the USA break out when under pressure. Today, for example, he played 31:31, by far the most by any player on either team.

No rest for Nashville's medal-winners

The Nashville Predators resume their home schedule after the Olympic break Tuesday, March 2nd vs. Edmonton, and have 10 home games in the month of March. For discounted tickets to any Nashville Predators home game, follow this link and use the special offer code "PREDS".