For the first time in NHL history, the league hosted a prestigious competition for its top players to represent their home countries against their own usual teammates. The United States, Canada, Finland and Sweden produce more National Hockey League players than anywhere else, thus creating a rivalry between which country produces the best. This tournament replaced the NHL’s typical All-Star Game, giving the best a chance to fight for more than just glory: national pride.
The United States has a star-packed team to lead the way to victory. The team is led by captain Auston Matthews, a forward for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Other forwards include the Tkachuk brothers, Brady and Matthew, who are usually separated by playing for the Panthers and Senators. But the Tkachuks aren’t the only brothers on Team USA: the two oldest Hughes, Quinn and Jack, are also competing for the stars and stripes. Other all-stars include Jack Eichel, Charlie McAvoy and Brock Nelson, all alternate captains for the United States.
Canada also has some heavy hitters on their roster. Long-time forward MVP Sidney Crosby is leading the team as captain. Crosby is the oldest all-star in this tournament at 37 years old, with the longest career of anyone else competing. Brad Marchand and Connor McDavid are his alternates. The team’s goal is protected by Jordan Binnington.
Finland has strength in their numbers as well. Led by Aleksander Barkov from the Florida Panthers, the team is determined to show their power. Barkov is accompanied by Mikael Granlund with the Dallas Stars and Sebastian Aho and Mikko Rantanen with the Hurricanes.
Sweden rounds out our four teams, with their captain Victor Hedman from Tampa, assisted by William Nylander, Erik Karlsson and Mattias Ekholm. Sweden also has the youngest all-star competing: Lucas Raymond with the Detroit Red Wings, only 22 years old.
All the games have been played either in Bell Centre, Montreal or TD Garden, Boston. The U.S. beat Finland and Canada but lost to Sweden. Meanwhile, Canada dominated over Finland and Sweden. Finland took one win against Sweden, 4-3 in overtime.
At the time of writing, all teams have completed their round robin games, but the final two teams–Canada and the United States–have yet to face off. Who will come out on top?
