SOCHI, Russia - Los Angeles Kings goaltender Jonathan Quick, owner of a Stanley Cup ring and a Conn Smythe trophy, has been selected to start in goal for the U.S. men's Olympic team Thursday in its opener against Slovakia.
Coach Dan Bylsma chose Quick over Ryan Miller, who was the Americans' best player in the their 2010 silver medal performance at the Vancouver Olympics. Quick was the No. 3 goalie in Vancouver, dressing for one game and never playing.
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"You just feel fortunate for the opportunity and you hope you can make the most of it," Quick said.
Quick is an ultra-aggressive goalie who boldly moves out of his net to take on shooters. That will force him to make some changes to his style on a wider European ice where the shooting angles are different.
"There are certain situations where you play the same and certain situations where I will have to adjust a little bit," Quick said.
Bylsma made the announcement after the USA's Wednesday morning practice. He gave no indication of what his long-term plan is for his goaltenders.
"I'm happy for (Quick)," said Kings teammate Dustin Brown. "Over the past four years, he's probably been the best goalie in the league. It's great to see him get an opportunity after learning the ropes four years ago."
Quick missed a big chunk of this season with a groin muscle injury but has been back in the Kings' lineup since the beginning of January.
