from Luke Fox of Sportsnet,

The 2015 IIHF World Championship has been such a blast, even from six time zones west, so let’s say it: this is the best one ever. At least through these North American, NHL-trained eyes. Seriously.

Can you recall a previous edition of the Worlds — such a poor man’s Stanley Cup Playoffs that the spring tourney has been relegated to punch-line status, alongside golf jokes — being so rich with stories and rewindable plays and intrigue heading into the medal round?

Saturday offers two hand-plucked semifinals -- USA versus Russia, Canada versus Czech Republic -- that will lead to a fantastic, star-studded gold medal matchup Sunday no matter how it shakes out.

Would you like Canada-USA and watch Sidney Crosby face Jack Eichel? How about Late addition Alex Ovechkin's attempt to avenge the Capitals' elimination and snuff out Crosby's bid to join the Triple Gold Club?

read on

Both semi-final games will be streamed in the US on NBCSports Live Extra.

All times are ET..

Canada vs. Czech Republic 9am
USA vs. Russia 1pm

God medal game is at 2:30pm ET on Sunday and is on NBCSN.