Team USA forward Jack Hughes (86) plays the puck against Team Finland forward Joel Armia (40) in the first period during a 4 Nations Face-Off ice hockey game at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images
But make no mistake, the U.S. is definitely the front-runner at this event.
Sure, Canada has its plethora of offensive stars at forward, capped with a couple of power-play units that would give goaltenders nightmares. Plus, with NHL referees officiating, as opposed to the … how do we say this? … dubious refereeing you see when the IIHF gets their fingers into the pie, the Canadians do not need to worry about the usual absurd penalty calls that seemingly always tarnish international hockey.
That said, the U.S. has no shortage of offensive talent in all areas, even without sublime defenseman Quinn Hughes due to injury. The Americans also boast a more physical lineup, especially with Matthew and Brady Tkachuk capable of beating anybody on the ice and in the alley, as poor Team Finland found out firsthand.
Basically, the U.S. has the ability to win any style of game that develops, be it a run-and-gun clash in which teams are trading chances or a take-them-to-the-mattresses match.
And then we get to the biggest difference between the nations on the ice: goaltending. While the U.S. boasts the game’s best netminder in Connor Hellebuyck and there are no debates about which horse is the one to ride all the way to the final, the Canadians are already in a quandary. Coach Jon Cooper would not divulge on Friday who will be in goal: Binnington or Adin Hill.
Binnington’s play when it counted most against Sweden was admirable, but he did little to disprove the doubters. Nobody would question turning to Hill, who, like Binnington, has backstopped a team to the Stanley Cup. Yet it would also be understandable if Cooper gives Binnington the start. Either way, the scrutiny on the goaltender tapped will be intense.
Canada’s best chance of beating the Americans will require special teams success, which is possible if the Tkachuk brothers go over the line with their enthusiasm and provide ample opportunity for the Canadian power play to weave its magic.
Enjoy the meeting, especially since it’s highly likely that Saturday’s battle will be the first of a two-part series with a championship final affair down the road, barring an upset.
