Switzerland Starts Strong Behind Devils Trio in Olympic Ice Hockey Opener
Switzerland wasted no time making a statement in their Olympic opener, jumping out to a 1-0 lead less than a minute into the game and never looking back en route to a 4-0 win over France. It was a performance that showcased not just their depth, but the high-end talent driving this team-particularly the New Jersey Devils trio of Nico Hischier, Timo Meier, and Jonas Siegenthaler.
Let’s start with Meier, who provided the offensive spark late. He buried two goals in the third period, both timely insurance markers that helped the Swiss shut the door on a French squad that was starting to push back. Meier’s finishing touch gave Switzerland the breathing room they needed to cruise to a three-point win in Group A-an important result considering the heavyweight company they’re keeping with Canada and Czechia looming in the group.
But this wasn’t just about scoring. Hischier and Siegenthaler didn’t find the scoresheet, but their fingerprints were all over this win.
Hischier, in particular, was relentless in transition. He created scoring chances with his speed and vision, constantly putting the French defense on its heels.
And while he didn’t convert, he drew three penalties-classic Hischier, using his motor and edge work to force defenders into mistakes. Those power plays tilted the ice in Switzerland’s favor and helped them control the flow of the game.
Siegenthaler, meanwhile, was a steadying presence on the back end. His defensive reads and physical play helped neutralize France’s limited offensive bursts. Alongside Hischier, his ability to close gaps and win battles made life a lot easier for the Swiss goaltender.
France had their moments, especially thanks to a strong effort from netminder Antoine Keller, who made several key stops to keep things from getting out of hand early. But ultimately, they couldn’t generate enough sustained pressure to crack Switzerland’s structure.
Now comes the real test. Next up for Switzerland is a showdown with Team Canada-a roster stacked with elite firepower like Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, and Sidney Crosby.
That’s a different level of challenge, and it’ll demand a full-team commitment to defense. Hischier’s two-way game will be critical, and if Meier can keep his scoring touch going, they’ll have a puncher’s chance.
Roman Josi may wear the captain’s "C" for this team, but there’s no denying the impact the Devils core is having on this Swiss squad. They’re playing with confidence, discipline, and structure-traits that have made them a force in recent IIHF World Championships. If they keep playing this brand of hockey, they’re going to be a tough out in this tournament, no matter who’s on the other side of the ice.