On Sunday, hockey fans are in for a treat as the United States and Canada face off for Olympic gold. This showdown feels like a fitting sequel to last season's thrilling 4 Nations Face-Off finale. The big question: Can the United States capture its first gold since the iconic "Miracle on Ice" in 1980, or will Canada continue its reign over Team USA?
For St. Louis Blues fans, this matchup presents a delightful dilemma.
With current Blues players on Team Canada and St. Louis natives on Team USA, choosing a side might be tough.
But no matter where your allegiance lies, here's a closer look at the players with St. Louis ties vying for gold.
Jordan Binnington - Team Canada
Jordan Binnington is a pivotal figure for the Blues in this Olympic run. His performance could boost his trade value, but there's more at stake.
If he leads Canada to victory, Binnington would join the elite ranks of Martin Brodeur, Dominik Hasek, and Patrick Roy as a goaltender who’s won both a Stanley Cup and an Olympic gold as a starter. While he may not be in the conversation for the greatest of all time, he would certainly be recognized as one of the most reliable big-game goaltenders in NHL history.
His legacy in Blues history is secure, but this could elevate his status across the league.
Colton Parayko - Team Canada
Colton Parayko was a defensive stalwart during the Blues' Stanley Cup triumph, playing alongside mentor Jay Bouwmeester. Bouwmeester's career includes a gold medal, a Stanley Cup, and a World Championship.
For Parayko, winning gold would be a testament to his achievements, mirroring his mentor's success. While it might not be a historic milestone like Binnington's potential win, it would certainly be a proud moment for Parayko.
Matthew Tkachuk - Team USA
Matthew Tkachuk's journey began in St. Louis after his father, Keith, joined the Blues.
Surrounded by hockey from a young age, Matthew’s path to becoming a two-time Stanley Cup champion was shaped in the Gateway City. Adding an Olympic gold to his resume would be another feather in his cap, especially after helping the Florida Panthers clinch their first Stanley Cup.
It would be fitting for him to be part of Team USA's first gold since 1980.
Brady Tkachuk - Team USA
Brady Tkachuk shares a similar story with his brother Matthew but is still chasing his first Stanley Cup. He did win gold with Matthew at the 2018 U18 World Championship, but an Olympic gold would be a significant addition to his accolades. Brady has been instrumental in Team USA’s journey, netting three goals in five games.
Clayton Keller - Team USA
Clayton Keller, hailing from Chesterfield, Missouri, played youth hockey alongside Matthew Tkachuk. Despite his success against the Blues in the NHL, his talent is undeniable.
Watching Keller win gold with a childhood teammate would be a heartwarming moment for fans of St. Louis hockey.
Who to Root For in St. Louis?
With Binnington and Parayko representing the Blues and Matthew, Brady, and Keller showcasing their St. Louis roots for Team USA, fans have a tough choice.
Whether you cheer for a Blue Note to win gold or root for the United States with its St. Louis connections, there's no wrong choice.
Here's a bit of advice: Enjoy the game, no matter who you're supporting. This is the first Olympic gold medal game featuring NHL players in over a decade, adding a new chapter to the storied United States-Canada rivalry.
Sunday promises to be an exciting day for hockey fans in St. Louis, even if it means an early start to catch all the action.