Russia 8 – Latvia 2
Alexander Ovechkin scored twice and goaltender Evgeni Nabokov made 18 saves leading Russia to an easy 8-2 victory over Latvia in preliminary round action.
Pittsburgh’s Evgeni Malkin had a goal and an assist for Russia. Malkin got better as the game progressed, scoring a power play goal late in the second period and setting up linemate Iyla Kovalchuk for a third period tally.
Russia’s roster consists of a number of NHL and KHL players and they got production from both ends Tuesday night.
KHL forward Danis Zaripov scored twice and Alexander Radulov added a goal for Russia.
Former Penguin Alexei Morozov also scored for Russia.
Penguins defenseman Sergei Gonchar was pointless.
The Russians return to action Thursday afternoon.
