"The contest was not without some drama, as the first period included two successful coach's challenges from Latvia that wiped U.S. goals off the board. After that, however, the ice seemed to tilt the Americans' way, and goals from Tage Thompson, Auston Matthews and a pair from Brock Nelson were the difference. Here's what we learned in the opener, along with an overall team grade and big questions to ponder prior to Team USA's matchup against Denmark on Saturday."
"Let's start with the Hughes brothers. Quinn might be the most important player on the roster. He's a top-pairing defenseman who can be trusted in every situation. That was on display against Latvia, as he finished with a team-high 21:29 in ice time and registered two assists. Jack opened the game on the fourth line and also finished with a pair of assists."
Team USA defeated Latvia 5-1 in the opening game of the 2026 Olympic men's ice hockey tournament. The first period featured two successful coach's challenges by Latvia that overturned U.S. goals, but the Americans gained control afterwards. Goals came from Tage Thompson, Auston Matthews and two from Brock Nelson. Quinn Hughes played a team-high 21:29 and registered two assists, while Jack Hughes added two assists after starting on the fourth line. The Tkachuk brothers provided physicality and offensive support, with Brady scoring and Matthew adding two assists. The fourth line, anchored by Brock Nelson with Jack Hughes and J.T. Miller, contributed significantly.
Read at ESPN.com
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