The U.S. may be better equipped than ever to, for the first time, top the medal standings at a Winter Olympics held outside North America.
Three primary reasons. First, that the Winter Games are being held far away from traditional European powers Germany and Norway. Second, that rival Russia is dealing with a doping scandal that could limit (or eliminate) the participation of some of its stars in PyeongChang. Third, a continued American stronghold on new freestyle events on the Olympic program.
If the U.S. is to win the most medals in PyeongChang, these 18 are among the likeliest athletes to contribute:
Mikaela Shiffrin, Alpine Skiing: Became the youngest Olympic slalom champion in Sochi.