Craig Berube on whether Matthew Knies deserves a Team USA Olympic spot: "He can be a real good player for them and complement some of the skill they've got... Hopefully, it happens"

"We'll need to get to our game right away, come out on our toes, skate, attack, and play to our identity: get pucks deep right away, and go to work on that defense core over there, forcing them into bad puck plays. They're a very good rush team with a very active D. We are going to have to be really good off the rush tonight defensively."

"we thought about starting him again tonight, but I think it is important that we make sure he is rested and ready to go for the next one. In the third period (vs. Chicago), I thought they created a lot more. Robertson has some speed on that line, and Easton as well. Easton is there to make plays. He found those guys a couple of times on a few plays. Hopefully, that line can find some chemistry and produce a little bit for us."

The team must replicate the third-period intensity from the Chicago game by starting quickly, staying on their toes, skating, attacking, and playing to identity. The emphasis is on getting pucks deep immediately and pressuring the opponent's defense core to force bad puck plays. The Capitals are a strong rush team with an active defensive group, requiring solid defensive play off the rush. Dennis Hildeby will start while Joseph Woll is being managed after returning from injury to ensure rest and readiness. Easton Cowan joins John Tavares' line to create with speed and pursue chemistry. Dakota Joshua has gained confidence by settling in, simplifying his game, and finding chemistry with teammates.

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