SN'S MEMORIAL CUP PREVIEW

MISSISSAUGA, Ont. – The 2011 MasterCard Memorial Cup kicks off this evening as the host Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors take on Quebec Major Junior Hockey League representatives the Saint John Sea Dogs at 8:00 pm at the Hershey Centre.

The other teams participating in the event are the Ontario Hockey League champion Owen Sound Attack and Western Hockey League winners Kootenay Ice.

Most “exports” claim that this year’s tournament is as wide open as it has ever been. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see either of the teams walking away with junior hockey’s Holy Grail next week.

Rather than restating stuff that has already been said, here are a bunch of links to some excellent previews of the tournament:

Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors preview from Buzzing The Net and Bruins 2011 Draft Watch.

Owen Sound Attack preview from Buzzing The Net, Open Ice Hockey, and Bruins 2011 Draft Watch.

Kootenay Ice preview from Buzzing The Net, Open Ice Hockey, and Bruins 2011 Draft Watch.

Saint John Sea Dogs preview from Buzzing The Net, Open Ice Hockey, and Bruins 2011 Draft Watch.

Metro Montreal has a preview and analysis.

The Brandon Wheat Kings website had a solid rundown of all four teams.

The Toronto Star’s preview off all four teams.

RDS says that, with a CHL best record, the Sea Dogs are the favourites to win.

The Hockey News panel with their thoughts.

Postmedia News with a look at all four teams.