Eduards Tralmaks Shines in Latvia’s Loss, Keeps Olympic Hopes Alive
Latvia may have come up short on the scoreboard, but Eduards Tralmaks made sure his presence was felt - and then some.
In a high-stakes group stage finale against Denmark, Tralmaks put together a performance that turned heads, even if it didn’t tilt the result in Latvia’s favor. The 4-3 loss officially dropped Latvia to 1-2 in group play, but it also set the stage for what’s next: a do-or-die qualification-round matchup against Sweden. And if Latvia wants to keep its Olympic dream alive, they’ll need more of what Tralmaks brought to the ice.
Tralmaks Sparks the Offense
It didn’t take long for Tralmaks to make an impact. With Latvia trailing early, the Detroit Red Wings prospect - currently playing for the Grand Rapids Griffins - helped jumpstart the offense, picking up an assist late in the first period to cut into Denmark’s lead.
It was a crucial moment, not just for the scoreboard, but for the team’s energy. Latvia had been on its heels, and Tralmaks’ play was the spark they needed to push back.
In the second period, he took matters into his own hands. Tralmaks buried his second goal of the tournament, pulling Latvia within one and shifting the momentum squarely in their favor. His motor didn’t stop there - he was a constant presence in the offensive zone, drawing attention, creating space, and helping Latvia generate four power-play chances.
Unfortunately for Latvia, the finishing touch on those opportunities wasn’t there. Denmark held strong on the penalty kill, and an empty-net goal in the final minutes sealed the win for the Danes - their first of the tournament.
A Glimpse at NHL Potential
Even in defeat, Tralmaks’ performance stood out. He was Latvia’s most dynamic forward, and his ability to make plays in tight spaces, keep his feet moving, and elevate the tempo showed why he’s on the radar of NHL scouts. For a player trying to carve out a path to the league, this kind of international stage is a proving ground - and Tralmaks is making the most of it.
It’s not just the points - it’s the timing. When Latvia needed a lift, Tralmaks delivered.
That’s the kind of trait NHL teams look for in depth forwards who can rise to the occasion. He’s already shown flashes in the AHL with Grand Rapids, but this Olympic stretch might be the push that gets him a longer look.
Next Stop: Sweden
Now, the focus shifts to the qualification round. Latvia will face a tall task against a deep and disciplined Swedish team, but if Tralmaks can continue to drive the offense the way he did against Denmark, Latvia has a shot. He’s become the heartbeat of their attack, and with the tournament entering win-or-go-home territory, that kind of leadership and production is invaluable.
So while the loss stings, Latvia isn’t done yet - and neither is Tralmaks. If he keeps trending upward, his Olympic breakout could turn into something much bigger.