The stage is set for a thrilling conclusion to the Olympic hockey tournament, with the much-anticipated showdown between Canada and Team USA. Fans have been eagerly waiting for this clash, and it promises to deliver high-stakes drama on Sunday at 8:10 a.m. on NBC.
Canada, coming into the tournament as favorites, displayed resilience by overcoming a two-goal deficit to edge out Finland 3-2, thanks to Nathan MacKinnon's clutch power-play goal. On the other side, Team USA made a statement with a commanding 6-2 victory over Slovakia, setting up a rematch of last year's final in the NHL's 4 Nations Face-Off tournament.
Rangers center Sam Carrick, representing Canada, captured the excitement: “Everyone kind of foresaw this final from the start. It’s just been incredible watching hockey at its highest level.”
American defenseman Tony DeAngelo from the Islanders echoed the sentiment: “This is what hockey’s about. Both teams wanted this matchup, especially after the 4 Nations. It’s personal, but country comes first.”
Both the Islanders and Rangers are well-represented in this final. Team USA's bench features Rangers coach Mike Sullivan and assistant David Quinn, with forwards J.T.
Miller and Vincent Trocheck on the roster. Meanwhile, Islanders forward Bo Horvat suits up for Canada.
The journey to the finals wasn’t without its tense moments. Canada needed a late goal to tie Czechia in the quarterfinals before winning in overtime, and they played their semifinal without captain Sidney Crosby due to a lower-body injury. His availability for the final remains uncertain.
Team USA faced its own challenges, narrowly defeating Sweden in overtime after a late equalizer from Mika Zibanejad. Quinn Hughes sealed the victory with the decisive goal.
Islanders GM Mathieu Darche, a Canadian, summed it up: “These are the two best teams on paper. It’s the matchup everyone wanted. It’s fantastic for the NHL, with teams from both countries represented.”
Casey Cizikas, another Canadian Islander, added: “This is the rivalry we’ve grown up with. From minor hockey to now, Canada vs.
USA is always special. It’s going to be an exciting game.”
Rangers rookie Gabe Perreault, who has roots in both countries, is firmly in the American camp. “I grew up in Chicago and played for the U.S. teams, so I’m definitely rooting for the U.S.,” he said.
As the puck drops on Sunday, fans worldwide will be treated to a classic showdown between two hockey powerhouses. It’s more than just a game; it’s a celebration of a storied rivalry, with national pride on the line.