The last Swede to win Olympic gold in men's platform diving was Erik Adlerz back in 1912. Based on his performance in the world junior championship loss last night against Canada, Swedish goalie Jacob Markstrom may be his nation's next great diving hope.
Check out Jefflred's hilarious "The Mighty Ducks"/Benny Hill-inspired remix of Markstrom's dives from last night's game:
A more straight-forward, chronological video of his dives is here.
The first embellishment was just repulsive, especially the camera angle from inside the net that showed Markstrom -- a Florida Panthers draftee -- flopping backwards like he had just heard the gun to start a backstroke race. The second one, after a collision with Atlanta Thrashers prospect Angelo Esposito, resulted in an unfortunate confrontation as Markstrom feigned injury. The third time he hit the ice was perhaps the most hilarious one, as Washington Capitals draftee Stefan Della Rovere collided with him on a delayed call; he and Markstrom ended up getting coincidental minors.
Meanwhile, there's another video controversy for Sweden on the morning after: Did Detroit Red Wings draftee Joakim Andersson bite Los Angeles Kings prospect Thomas Hickey during a scrum in front of the crease? The alleged video evidence:
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Another slow-motion angle can be seen here. Said one poster on the HF Boards: "I think it's pretty damning considering that when Hickey yanks his hand away the glove stays in Andersson's mouth."
A scan of the wires this morning didn't turn up any comments from Hickey or Team Canada about an alleged chomping from what must be Sweden's answer to Derian Hatcher. It's pretty inconclusive otherwise.
