In a thrilling gold medal showdown, Team USA edged out Team Canada, leaving many Boston Bruins fans south of the border secretly satisfied. Despite dominating much of the game, Canada found themselves stymied by the exceptional goaltending of Connor Hellebuyck.
Canadian stars like Nathan MacKinnon, Devon Toews, Connor McDavid, and Macklin Celebrini had golden opportunities to clinch the victory in regulation. Yet, luck was not on their side, and it was Jack Hughes who ultimately netted the overtime winner for Team USA. Whether it was nerves, bad luck, or simply poor finishing, Canada’s top guns couldn’t find the back of the net when it counted.
One can’t help but wonder if the outcome might have been different with Bruins forward Morgan Geekie in the lineup. Geekie, known for his lethal finishing and unflappable demeanor, was notably absent. Despite the logic behind his exclusion from the roster, his presence might have been the spark Canada needed.
Geekie is on track for an impressive 46-goal season, boasting a shooting percentage of 24.8%. His ability to capitalize on scoring chances is nearly unmatched, making him a player you’d bet on in a one-on-one with any goaltender.
Canada’s roster leaned heavily on program veterans and familiar faces from the 4 Nations Face-Off. Newcomers like Nick Suzuki, Bo Horvat, Tom Wilson, and Celebrini brought their own strengths, but Geekie’s unique skill set was missed. Despite the potential for roster changes in hindsight, Geekie’s name likely wouldn’t have surfaced due to the team’s strategic choices.
While Geekie may not have been in Canada’s plans, watching the game unfold, it’s tempting to imagine him seizing a crucial moment and slipping one past Hellebuyck. His absence was felt, and it leaves fans pondering what might have been had he donned the red and white.