The States opened things up in the second period, with two goals from Brock Nelson, who is coming off a career year with the Colorado Avalanche and is on pace for 40 goals in 2025-2026. The first was a power play marker, assisted by Jack Hughes and Vincent Trocheck, and the second was at even strength, also assisted by Hughes and Matthew Tkachuk. Between these two goals was another power play marker from Tage Thompson, assisted by Jack Eichel and Quinn Hughes.
In the third period, Matthews scored less than three minutes into the power play with assists from Eichel and Hughes. It was his first goal of the tournament and effectively put the limit on any possible comeback for Team Latvia. Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck got the start in the team’s first game and stopped 17 of 18 shots, with a less stellar but admirable effort from Pittsburgh Penguins goaltender Arturs Silovs for Latvia, making 31 saves on 36 shots.
Matthews and the States return to action on Saturday when they take on Denmark, while Canada will take on Team Switzerland on Friday afternoon. William Nylander, Oliver Ekman-Larsson and Team Sweden compete against Team Finland early Friday morning.
PRESENTED BY DAILY FACEOFF OLYMPIC COVERAGE
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