2018 World Hockey Championships: Canada vs USA

CANADA vs USA

Jyske Bank Boxen- Herning, Denmark

TV and Radio: TSN

In the absence of meaningful hockey for some of us, the World Championships has often been a fun distraction. A handful of players that can be considered stars, all coming together to take on the world. Sure, it’s not the Olympics but it’s still a pretty fun tournament, and this year, some of the NHL’s best are actually here. Canada’s been on a pretty good run, winning Gold, Gold and Silver in the last 3 tournaments. And with a lineup that boasts Connor McDavid, Matthew Barzal and the Canucks’ Bo Horvat, they have a fairly impressive offensive arsenal. Defensively, with Colton Parayko, Aaron Ekblad and Joel Edmondson patrolling the blueline, they’re definitely intimidating. In goal is where we might see them struggle. Arizona’s Darcy Kuemper (who will get the start today), Toronto’s Curtis McElhinney and Canucks prospect (and OHL Goaltender of the Year) Michael DiPietro are the netminders for this tournament. DiPietro won’t play, barring injuries of course, but what an incredible learning experience for him. The entire roster can be found here.

This morning they take on the US squad who have a bit of a drop off talent-wise after the headliners. Led by Patrick Kane and Johnny Gaudreau, after that it’s a bit of a mish-mash of players who could be impactful. Cam Atkinson of Columbus had a good season, and on defence undrafted Quinn Hughes will be one to watch. The Americans have New Jersey’s Keith Kinkaid and Carolina’s Scott Darling in net.

Canada’s top line will feature McDavid with Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Jaden Schwartz, while Josh Bailey, Brayden Schenn and Ryan O’Reilly make up Line 2. Horvat will anchor the Fourth line with Pierre-Luc Dubois and Jean-Gabrielle Pageau, and the 3rd line is all New York Islanders, with Anthony Beauvillier, Mathew Barzal and Jordan Eberle.