Tage Thompson made a significant impact for Team USA in their men's ice hockey semifinal clash against Slovakia, delivering the kind of early momentum that's been elusive for the team in these Winter Olympics. The Buffalo Sabres standout contributed a goal and an assist in the 6-2 victory, but his night was cut short due to a lower-body injury.
Missing from the bench at the start of the third period, Thompson was ruled out for the rest of the game. However, there's a silver lining.
Hockey insider Elliotte Friedman reports that Thompson was sidelined as a precaution. Team USA's head coach, Mike Sullivan, is optimistic that the 28-year-old forward will be back in action for Sunday's gold medal showdown against Canada.
While it's a blow to see Thompson leave the ice, fans can take solace in the fact that he might have continued if it had been crucial. Yet, the final injury update will be eagerly awaited by all.
Throughout the Milano Cortina Games, Team USA has often struggled to gain early traction, but Thompson set the tone with his performance. He assisted on a goal by Dylan Larkin early in the game and then fired a shot into the net, giving the United States a 2-0 lead just before the first period ended. Thompson has now scored three times in these Olympics.
His teammates will undoubtedly want him on the ice for the high-stakes matchup against Canada. To topple the formidable Canadian squad, setting the pace will be key.
Thompson showed he's up to the task on Friday, and if Sullivan's words are any indication, he'll likely get another chance come Sunday. The puck drops at 8:10 a.m. ET.