Heading into Saturday night’s crucial game against Canada at the Bell Centre in the second pool play of the 4 Nations Face-Off, Team USA knew that a win would secure a spot in Thursday night’s Championship Game at the TD Garden. They delivered with a strong all-around performance, defeating Canada 3-1.
Several factors contributed to Team USA’s dominant showing in Montreal. Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck was stellar, particularly after allowing a first-period goal from Connor McDavid. From that point on, Hellebuyck shut Canada down.
While Canada had its chances, Team USA’s defense did an excellent job of forcing plays to the outside, allowing Hellebuyck to see nearly every shot. A key reason for the solid defensive effort was Boston Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy. The assistant captain for both the Bruins and Team USA, McAvoy led the defensive corps with five hits, including a massive one on McDavid.
Charlie McAvoy
McDavid opened the scoring with a brilliant play, using his speed to split the Team USA defense and beat Hellebuyck with a top-shelf goal. However, McAvoy responded just moments later. As McDavid entered the offensive zone again, McAvoy was ready, delivering a crushing check that sent the Edmonton Oilers star to the ice.
That hit shifted momentum in Team USA’s favor, and they eventually evened the score with Jake Guentzel’s first of two goals. In the second period, Dylan Larkin of the Detroit Red Wings netted the game-winner, and Guentzel capped off the victory with an empty-net goal in the third.
The tournament now moves to Boston on Monday, with Finland and Canada playing at 1 p.m. and Team USA facing Sweden at 8. If Canada wins in regulation, a rematch with Team USA will take place Thursday night for the championship.
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