Milan Showdown: Wilson, Bennett, and Marchand Spark Canada's Semifinal Victory
In a surprising twist, Team Canada coach Jon Cooper decided to shake things up during the Olympic semifinal against Finland. Tom Wilson and Sam Bennett were stretching before the game when Cooper casually mentioned pairing them with Brad Marchand on the ice.
Wilson initially thought it was a joke, given his usual spot on Canada's top line with Connor McDavid and Macklin Celebrini. But Cooper was serious.
The trio of Wilson, Bennett, and Marchand proved to be a game-changer in Canada's 3-2 win. Their relentless forechecking and physical play helped set up Shea Theodore's tying goal in the third period before Nathan MacKinnon clinched the win with a power-play goal in the final minute.
Wilson described their style as "controlled chaos," emphasizing their shared understanding without needing many words. "Playing with guys who match my style is a blast," he said. "You hate facing them but love having them on your side."
Before the tournament, the three had talked about how fun it would be to play together, but it hadn't materialized until this crucial moment. Cooper, who had previously crafted the "Three Macs" line, saw the timing as perfect with Canada trailing 2-0.
"They impact the game differently than the 'Three Macs,' but they're just as effective," Cooper explained. "Their work ethic and physical presence were crucial in tilting the ice in our favor."
Marchand's presence in front of the net was pivotal, as his pressure led to Theodore's goal. Finnish goalie Juuse Saros was visibly frustrated, a testament to the line's impact on both the scoreboard and the psyche of their opponents.
Bennett's aggressive play initially resulted in a penalty that led to a Finnish goal, but he quickly adjusted, staying on the right side of the line. Wilson, reflecting on his previous game, realized the key was to stop overthinking and play his natural, physical game.
With the gold medal matchup against the United States looming, Canada will need this line's intensity more than ever. Their semifinal performance couldn't have come at a better time.
"Timing’s everything," Cooper noted. "Tonight it worked, and it might just be the key again in the final."