Key Highlights
- The Czech Republic will face Canada in the quarterfinals, rematch of their opening game.
- Sweden vs. USA matchup is a gold-medal level contest with Sweden facing challenges from adversity.
- Germany faces Slovakia in what could be a medal-deciding game after Germany’s unremarkable group-stage performance.
The Czech Republic and Canada: A Rematch of Olympic Glory
The Czech Republic will face Team Canada, their rivals from the opening round. In that game, Canada trounced the Czechs 5-0. This time around, the Czech center Tomáš Hertl is determined to play with confidence.
“We can’t be scared,” he said. “If we wait and wait, we know what they can do.
They have the best player on the planet on the team. They can destroy you.”
Canada’s Defense and Marchand’s Return
Canadian captain Sidney Crosby expects a tough match against the Czechs again. “Maybe a bit more familiar,” he said, but added that his team must execute well regardless of how many times they play each other.
Brad Marchand could return to the lineup and face former Bruins teammate David Pastrňák, with whom Marchand remains close despite their on-ice rivalry.
Sweden vs. USA: A Gold-Medal Level Showdown
The U.S. faces a tough task against Sweden in what is essentially a gold-medal level matchup. The Americans get to face Team Sweden, full of NHL stars, after Slovakia’s surprising group win put them in the tougher bracket.
Jack Eichel and Auston Matthews are set to form key lines with Brady, Matthew Tkachuk, Jake Guentzel, Matt Boldy, Dylan Larkin, and Tage Thompson. Connor Hellebuyck is sharp and rested for the U.S., while Sweden’s coach Sam Hallam has tough decisions on goalies.
Sweden’s Adversity
Sweden’s road to gold starts in earnest Wednesday night against the United States. Sweden has scuffled and shuffled its way here, but they might be better off for it. “You can cruise through it and then all of a sudden you’re tested in a way you weren’t prepared for,” coach Sam Hallam said.
Germany vs. Slovakia: A Medal-Debating Match
In what could be one of the most important games of the tournament, Germany faces Slovakia after a 5-1 victory over France. Slovakia, resting and riding high from their group win, is a medal threat.
Slovak defenseman Šimon Nemec said, “It’s always hard to play against them, but we have a big chance to win.”
Germany’s Unremarkable Group-Stage Performance
Despite unremarkable group-stage performance and being considered unlikely medal contenders, Germany could be the favorite in this matchup. Slovakia is well-rested and riding high after their victory.
Slovak captain Mikael Granlund emphasized the importance of playing as a team: “We have to play our best all the time.”