From Bruins Fans' Frustration to Validation: Mike Sullivan’s Goalie Call Pays Off
The debate over who should start in net for Team USA at the Olympics was anything but simple for fans. Jeremy Swayman had been putting up stellar numbers all season, while Connor Hellebuyck and Jake Oettinger were having their struggles.
Swayman, fresh off a World Championship win with the USA, seemed like a strong contender. Yet, when Coach Mike Sullivan mentioned that "performance matters," it left many wondering what direction he'd take.
Inside Team USA, however, the choice seemed clear. Hellebuyck, last season's NHL MVP, was the go-to guy unless something drastic happened. He anchored the team through the tournament, starting every game but one, where Swayman got the nod.
As the gold medal game approached, questions lingered about Hellebuyck's ability to shine on the big stage. But he silenced the doubters with a performance for the ages. Despite Canada controlling the game for most of the time, Hellebuyck's heroics kept the score from ballooning, preventing what could've been a 6 or 7-1 blowout.
His standout moment came with a jaw-dropping save against Devon Toews. Mitch Marner's dazzling pass found Toews open in front, but Hellebuyck's stick was there to deny him, creating a highlight that will be remembered for years.
Hellebuyck didn't do it alone, though. Charlie McAvoy's crucial goalline clearance was another key moment, nearly sealing the game. But if there were any lingering doubts about Sullivan's decision, they were surely erased by the end of that Sunday morning.
Jeremy Swayman's Olympic Journey
Swayman had his shot to prove himself when he started against Denmark. Unfortunately, a shaky first period, capped by a long-range goal, didn't help his case. That game marked his last appearance, as he was sidelined in favor of Oettinger, who took on the backup role.
For Swayman, the Olympic experience could be a turning point. He has the opportunity to take the lessons learned from winning gold and channel them into his play with the Bruins. Bruins fans will certainly hope he chooses to build on this experience rather than let it weigh him down.