"The confidence just continues to grow within our group. Each game, I think we've taken steps in the right direction of where we want to grow our game going into the quarterfinals, and it's good to see."
"There are a lot of things he does really well. Even when he is not producing, there are things that people might not notice. Everyone is always focused on his goal scoring - and rightfully so, he is one of the best goal scorers in the world - but since we have been here, he has been such a leader for us with the way he plays the game. ... He plays the right way. He is always getting chances, winning face-offs, and tonight it is nice to see him get rewarded."
Team USA defeated Germany 5-1 in the final preliminary game, with Auston Matthews scoring two goals and adding an assist. The Americans dominated puck battles, controlled play throughout the game, and finished the preliminary round 3-0-0, securing the second seed behind Canada on goal differential. Confidence within the group continued to grow, and each outing produced incremental steps toward improving team play ahead of the quarterfinals. Zach Werenski emphasized Matthews' leadership, work in the face-off circle, consistent chance creation, and overall impact on and off the puck. Matthews' performance and leadership position him as the primary offensive force for Team USA entering the knockout rounds.
Read at Editor In Leaf
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