Kari looks great, then falters

Kari looked outstanding against Kovy and the Russians, sparking a 2-1 upset on 29 saves, but looked dismal in the gold medal game, giving up 4 goals on 18 shots.

When I first learned of the great game against the Russians, I wondered if Kari is one of those European players who gets more motivated in international competitions than the stanley cup playoffs. After looking miserable against Canada, I wonder if its more about EUROPEAN competition. That when he faces Russia, Slovakia, Sweden, etc. he is much more prepared and ready and focused. Of course he always wants to win, but he seems to be only 'IN THE ZONE' against international competition. Kari did bring home the IIHF best goalie award and was voted to the media's All-Star Team.

Kovy's Russian Squad won the bronze medal game over Sweden, 3-1.

Statistics for Thrashers players:
Ilya Kovalchuk (Russia)- 2G 5A 7P +4
Marian Hossa (Slovakia)- 2G 4A 6P +1
Kari Lehtonen (Finland)- 12GA 138SOG 91.3SV% 4-2

Prospects
Ilya Nikulin (Russia)- 2G 0A 2P +6
Tobias Enstrom (Sweden)- 0G 2A 2P 0