-
Kristen Shilton
Multiple Contributors
Team USA required overtime to secure a victory against Sweden in the quarterfinals of the 2026 Olympic men’s hockey tournament.
The semifinal match on Friday was far less nerve-wracking for fans.
The Americans scored quickly and frequently, finishing with a 6-2 triumph over Slovakia, thus advancing to the gold medal game, where they will meet Canada on Sunday (8:10 a.m. ET).
What accounted for the U.S.’s impressive performance? Who were the standout players in the game? And what are the implications as we anticipate the final confrontation with their main hockey rival?
Key Insight 1: U.S. offense is revitalized
This was undoubtedly Team USA’s finest display in the tournament, especially offensively. In their quarterfinal match against Sweden, they managed a mere one goal in regulation, struggling with several of their star forwards. It was defenseman Quinn Hughes’ overtime goal that eventually advanced them to the semis.
They made up for that sluggish start against Slovakia. Dylan Larkin (the other scorer from the quarterfinal win), Tage Thompson, Jack Hughes (twice), Jack Eichel, and Brady Tkachuk (notably on a breakaway) all added to the scoring in an impressive rout, showcasing a newfound cohesion that had been lacking earlier in the tournament.
A FILTHY move by Brady Tkachuk to extend the lead. pic.twitter.com/CIrgDfTFR6
— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) February 20, 2026
It’s common for teams to need time to develop chemistry when they come together in a brief setting. We’re witnessing that growth from Team USA, culminating at a crucial moment.
Key Insight 2: Discipline is crucial
The Americans had minimal issues scoring on Friday. but, they could improve on limiting opportunities for opponents.
The U.S. committed four penalties in slightly over 25 minutes of play, most of which were avoidable. (Think unnecessary sticks.) Charlie McAvoy incurred two penalties on his own, and players of his caliber (and others like Auston Matthews who also found the penalty box) should be focusing on building momentum for their team rather than hindering it.
While the Americans’ penalty kill was effective, successfully limiting Slovakia’s chances; the Slovaks contributed to their own struggles with a puzzling lack of presence in front of Connor Hellebuyck.
but, conceding so many power-play opportunities is fraught with risk, and if Team USA aims to achieve its goal in the upcoming gold medal game, maintaining discipline will be essential. The Canadians possess one of the most potent power plays in the tournament, with an abundance of talent poised to capitalize.
Slovakia registered only 23 shots on the U.S. goalie, who enjoyed the comfort of a substantial lead throughout the game. Other than an error leading to Juraj Slavkovsky’s goal, Hellebuyck was again impressive for the U.S. and should enter the anticipated matchup against Jordan Binnington with confidence.
but, Hellebuyck may feel he has more to prove than Binnington. He has received criticism for underwhelming playoff performances in the NHL, and while he earned regular-season honors (including a Hart Trophy last season as MVP), Hellebuyck has yet to achieve that defining victory at the pinnacle of his sport that distinguishes elite goaltenders.
This is his chance to quiet those critics and demonstrate he can perform against the highest level of competition, with the stakes at their zenith.
Player of the Game: Jack Hughes, F
This was the standout performance from Jack Hughes we’ve been anticipating in Milan. He wasn’t absent before this semifinal; he just hadn’t displayed the dominance he’s known for in the past.
His first goal, maneuvering through Slovakia’s defense, was a highlight-reel moment, injecting confidence into the U.S. amid penalty concerns. His second goal was a product of being in the right place at the right time.
Jack Hughes said “ANOTHA ONE”. pic.twitter.com/GG2bK1YPlj
— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) February 20, 2026
Hughes has been positioned on the fourth line for a loaded U.S. squad, a situation he isn’t accustomed to in the NHL. but, he made the most of his opportunities and finally shined. Perhaps he was motivated by his brother Quinn’s heroics in the quarterfinals, igniting a competitive spirit. Whatever the inspiration, Hughes delivered exactly what the U.S. needed from one of its top scorers.
Big Question for the Gold Medal Game
How will the U.S. manage Canada’s elite players?
There are significant roster questions for both teams heading into Sunday’s final. Will Sidney Crosby be fit to play for Canada after sitting out Friday’s semifinal due to injury? And will Thompson be available for the U.S. after exiting the game against Slovakia for what was described as “precautionary reasons,” following a blocked shot to his foot?
Regardless of how the lineups ultimately shape up, the U.S. faces a considerable challenge from the team that stands between it and the gold. This is a familiar situation, as Canada and the U.S. previously clashed in the 4 Nations Face-Off final a year ago, with the U.S. emerging on the losing end. Many on their roster felt that disappointment; now we’ll see if they can leverage that experience.
Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, and newcomer Macklin Celebrini have driven Canada’s offense to expected heights. Can the U.S. synchronize all its firepower to overturn the 4 Nations result, mirroring the U.S. women’s success in denying Canada gold in hockey?
Overall Team Grade: A-
The penalties may not have directly impacted Team USA, but if there are areas for enhancement, avoiding the penalty box would be significant.
Aside from Slavkovsky’s goal on Hellebuyck — a result of a misplay and general defensiveness — the Americans performed quite well overall. Their scoring depth was evident, star players generated opportunities, and Hellebuyck was outstanding when tested.
The U.S. has been building momentum throughout the tournament, and that trajectory is set to continue into Sunday’s showdown.
