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08:24 AM ET 12.25 | Yet again, Canada and Russia find themselves among the favorites to win IIHF World Junior Championship gold. The old rivals have captured eight out of the last 11 titles between them, and all the signs are there that normal service will be resumed after last year's shock win by Sweden. The Swedes are depleted by injuries to several key players, while full-strength Russia is led by NHL No. 1 draft pick Nail Yakupov and Canada by center Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, two of the world's top emerging talents. ... Yakupov is ready for anything come December 31. "I understand that I will have to keep a cool head and ignore provocations. Especially against the Canadians. These guys play dirty. We got used to that."

R-Sport

Nail Yakupov, Icon Sports

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December 25, 2012 08:32 AM ET

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MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL

Canuck eh?

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December 25, 2012 10:39 AM ET

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Jenner was suspended three games for this hit but he'll be back for the game against the Russians and quite possibly will "hit the Nail on the head."

Canuck eh?

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December 25, 2012 12:12 PM ET

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Wonder if this will bring Hankela to watch it now ?? He wanted hate..it may not be hate just yet..but its right on the bubble of hate.

bostongm

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December 25, 2012 03:19 PM ET

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Yakupov on Team Canada: 'These guys play dirty'

Get used to it Yak! We (US and our Canuck neighbors) play for keeps over here. You might want to change your name to something other than "Nail" before turning pro in North America

roamer

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December 25, 2012 03:21 PM ET

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Yakupov on Team Canada: 'These guys play dirty'

BTW, Yak, you may want to change your name to something other than "Nail" before you become a pro in the NHL. Too many guys will be happy to oblige you.