World Cup of Hockey: Brent Burns blast gives Canada 2-0 lead (Video)

Brent Burns has given Team Canada a 2-0 lead over Czech Republic in their opening game of the World Cup of Hockey. 

San Jose Sharks defenseman Brent Burns has become one of the most popular players in the NHL. Many love him for his awesome tattoos, bushy beard, and trademark gap-tooth grin. But he’s a pretty excellent hockey player as well. He’s a dynamic offensive force with a deadly shot and that was put on display against Czech Republic to give Canada an early 2-0 lead.

The goal is currently being credited to Burns, though Brad Marchand might have gotten a deflection on it. Regardless of who got the goal, Burns’ shot was a rocket. Even if Marchand deflected it, Czech Republic goalie Michal Neuvirth likely doesn’t stand a chance of stopping it. Very few can stop one of Burns’ patented one-timers.

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Canada has shown off their depth during the World Cup. Their depth is borderline unfair when you look at how many great forwards and defensemen they have. They also have the best goaltender in the world (Carey Price) and one of the best coaches in the world (Mike Babcock). Combined, their team might be the closest thing to unbeatable that hockey has seen in the past 25 years.

Burns is coming off an extremely impressive season. It got overshadowed by Erik Karlsson’s season, but Burns still led the NHL in goals among defensemen. Burns also led all defensemen in points during the playoffs as he helped the Sharks make it to the Stanley Cup Finals for the first time in franchise history.

Canada won the World Cup back in 2004 and they’re hoping to repeat as champions. With an incredible offense, a strong defense, and the best goalie in the world, Canada is the favorite to win the preseason tournament. Burns is a huge reason why.