This is Austria’s first Winter Olympics hockey tournament since 2002, where they finished 12th. Needless to say, they’re just happy to be here. Surprisingly, the Eagles have at least notable and current NHL players. Thomas Vanek and Michael Grabner also play together for the New York Islanders.
Forwards
Vanek and Grabner are the only two forwards with NHL experience, as the rest play in leagues throughout Europe including Austria’s Erste Bank Eishockey Liga and the Swiss National League . Michael Raffl, a rookie with the Philadelphia Flyers, is earning praise from management and should add to what little depth Austria has.
Scoring will be limited especially since Team Austria’s best players will be lined up together.
Defense
Thomas Pock is the lone defenseman who played on the senior circuit, with most of his time coming with the Islanders, of course. His former Isles blueliners will look like all stars compared to what Team Austria hockey has.
Goaltending
All of the Eagles goaltending plays overseas and has no experience at the highest level. No matter who is in net, they will look out of place on the world stage.
Group B opponents
Canada, Finland, Norway
Projected group finish
T-3rd– 1 point
Final position
11th
Follow Jeff on Twitter @sckih_ffej for more sports and entertainment ramblings. Jeff also contributes fantasy advice for The Fantasy Fix.