Fly High, Free Bird: Keys to Team USA’s Statement Win Over Canada, Plus Grades, Lingering Questions

Fly High, Free Bird: Keys to Team USA’s Statement Win Over Canada, Plus Grades, Lingering Questions

In a game that will be remembered for its intensity and drama, the United States emerged victorious over Canada with a 3-1 win in the 4 Nations Face-Off. This thrilling encounter, which began with three fights in nine seconds, showcased some of the finest hockey seen in recent memory. The victory not only secured Team USA a spot in the championship game this Thursday but also ended Canada’s impressive 17-game “best-on-best” tournament winning streak, according to ESPN Research.

With six points in the bag, Team USA is now set to face an opponent yet to be determined, as the other teams each have two points. Monday’s matchups will decide who the Americans will meet in the title game. Let’s dive into the grades for the U.S. and Canada, our biggest takeaways, key players to watch in the next game, and the lingering questions that remain.

Grading the Teams

United States: A

Team USA’s opening win over Finland on Thursday was a crucial confidence booster before facing their archrivals, Canada. This victory was not just about the scoreline; it was a testament to the team’s depth and adaptability. The Americans established two scoring lines, led by Auston Matthews and Jack Eichel. It was a demonstration of how star players from the NHL could transition into role players on the national team, with Dylan Larkin scoring a pivotal goal against Canada.

The Americans showed poise and control, especially in a hostile environment like Montreal’s Bell Centre. Connor Hellebuyck delivered a strong performance in goal, further solidifying the team’s confidence. Despite the absence of Quinn Hughes due to injury, the Americans celebrated an epic win, securing their place in the championship game in Boston.

Canada: B-

Canada’s performance was marked by a critical mistake in the second period. Matt Boldy intercepted a Sidney Crosby cross-ice pass, leading to a line change and an odd-skater rush. This resulted in Larkin’s winning goal. Despite creating numerous high-danger scoring chances, Canada couldn’t overcome the error, especially against a formidable goaltender like Hellebuyck.

Canada missed the presence of Cale Makar, who was absent due to illness. His absence was felt not only in terms of ice time but also in special teams’ performance. Canada will need Makar back for their crucial game against Finland.

What We Learned

Hellebuyck Answers the Critics

Connor Hellebuyck, considered the best goaltender in the world, faced criticism for his playoff performances. However, his solid showing against Canada, with 20 saves, silenced many doubters. Hellebuyck’s performance is crucial for his confidence and his position as the starter for the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Canada Found Countermeasures but Still Missed Makar

Canada struggled to replace Makar’s contributions, especially on special teams. Josh Morrissey stepped in for Makar on the power play, but Canada finished 0-for-2. Makar’s return is essential for Canada’s success against Finland.

Historic, Chaotic Start

The game began with three fights in the first nine seconds, setting the tone for a fierce rivalry. The Tkachuk brothers, along with J.T. Miller, engaged in fights that turned the game into a cultural moment. This rivalry has only intensified, with a potential rematch on the horizon.

• Where were the individual displays for Canada when it needed goals?
• Canada’s stars struggled to find openings against the U.S.’s tight structure. Despite creating 12 high-danger chances, they couldn’t capitalize, highlighting the need for adjustments against Finland.

Players to Watch

Jake Guentzel
F, United States

Guentzel has been a standout performer, with a goal and an assist against Finland and two goals against Canada. His reputation as a playoff performer is shining through, making him a leader for tournament MVP.

Sam Reinhart
F, Canada

Reinhart, known for his scoring prowess, has struggled in this tournament. With zero goals against the U.S. and Sweden, Canada will need him to step up against Finland.

Big Questions for the Next Game

How do they approach a (potentially) meaningless game?

With a spot in the championship game secured, Team USA faces decisions about resting players and trying new lineups. The outcome of Canada’s game against Finland will determine the significance of the U.S.-Sweden matchup.

Can the space that eluded Canada against the U.S. be found against Finland?

Canada will need to adjust its strategy to find space against Finland, who will likely employ a similar defensive approach to the U.S. The outcome will determine if Canada gets a rematch with the U.S. or faces an early exit.