US beats Russia in final WJC tune-up

Team USA skated to a convincing 5-1 win over Russia in its final exhibition game for the World Junior Championships last night in Kingston, Ontario. Michigan's Aaron Palushaj scored a natural hattrick and Terrier sophomore Colin Wilson (#33) added a goal and an assist. Wilson rang a wrister off the pipe, which James VanRiemsdyk converted. Later, he drilled a slapshot from the high slot past the Russian goalie. Video highlights on All-Access Pass. The tournament's preliminary round begins on Friday in Ottawa with Team USA playing Germany. Canada, which is in the same bracket as USA, meets the Czech Republic.

A future Terrier, 2010 recruit Yasin Cissé, has an international tournament on his schedule, as well. Cissé, a forward on the USHL Des Moines Bucs and formerly with the Lac St. Louis Lions in the Quebec AAA Midget League, is on Quebec's roster for the World U17 Challenge in Port Alberni, B.C., which begins on Sunday with an exhibition game.

As part of Hockey East's 25th anniversary celebration, BU will honor 61 former Terriers who achieved special recognition for their play in the conference. The event will take place during the February 28 home game against UMass, which is part of the University's Annual Winterfest Weekend. Those who will be recognized earned Hockey East awards such as Player of the Year, Tournament MVP, Rookie of the Year, Conference All-Star, All-Rookie and Coach of the Year.

Former Terrier Ryan Whitney returned to the Pittsburgh Penguins lineup last night following offseason foot surgery.