World Junior Summer Showcase: USA vs Sweden
6 years ago
The second match for today was between Team USA and Sweden.
USA White and USA Blue had previously played Sweden with Blue losing 4-3 and White winning by the same score.
Unfortunately, 2018 draft eligible defenceman Rasmus Dahlin was unable to dress due to sickness, but both teams were loaded with talent.
Team USA roster for the contest was:
Image: Adam Kimelman
Sweden’s roster was as follows:
Image: Adam Kimelman
Highlights
Notes
Given that there was only one Canuck prospect and no Team Canada for this contest, it will be a bit shorter.
- 7th overall pick Lias Andersson had a noticeable game picking up both goals for the Swedes. He is a jack of all trades prospect who helps the team in every way. He has a chance to crack the Rangers opening night roster, but if he doesn’t he will be a big part of the Swedish team.
- Speaking of Andersson, he and Canucks prospect Elias Pettersson have been together quite a bit in past international tournaments and it appears that will continue if both are available.
- Canucks prospect Elias Pettersson didn’t have any flashy moments but was noticeable with smart plays. Moving the puck well and keeping open. His assist on Andersson’s second goal was later removed, but it’s fair to think he intended on having that rebound. He also had a decent chance in the third period:
- Pettersson will likely return home to Sweden following this tournament, as his SHL team, Vaxjo, qualified for the Champions League and starts those contests in the coming weeks.
- Kieffer Bellows had some flashes today – showing off his hard shot, and made a nice play to Hughes for the game winner. He had a tough season for Boston College this past year, but the move to the WHL may be able to help him rebound.
- Sweden’s speed was noticeable throughout the entire game. They are able to move the puck quickly and get going. That is aided by their mobile, puck moving defencemen who are able to use active sticks to break up oncoming opposition players.
- Quinton Hughes continues to impress with his skating and puck distribution. The young defenceman could force himself onto the roster as an underager.
- Sweden and Canada face off against each other on Friday, with the USA taking on Finland. Both games will be on TSN.
Full stats for the game can be found here.
