Jack Eichel Leads the Charge as Team USA Overpowers Latvia 5-1
It took a little while for Team USA to find its rhythm against Latvia, but once they did, there was no looking back. After a tightly contested first period ended in a deadlock, the Americans settled in, found their footing, and ultimately flexed their offensive muscle in a 5-1 win.
Early on, it was a game of near-misses and frustrating calls. A potential U.S. goal was wiped off the board due to an offside, and another was negated for goaltender interference after Brock Nelson thought he had put the Americans back in front. For a team with as much firepower as the U.S. boasts, it was a test of patience and composure.
But the dam eventually broke - and when it did, the flood of talent was unmistakable.
Eichel Orchestrates, Hughes Dishes, Nelson Finishes
Jack Eichel was in full control from the start of the second period on. The Vegas Golden Knights star tallied two assists, both coming on the power play, showcasing the kind of puck movement and vision that have made him one of the NHL’s most complete forwards. His chemistry with his linemates was evident, especially on a slick feed to Tage Thompson, who buried a gorgeous backhander from the slot.
Nelson, who had an earlier goal called back, made sure his name ended up on the scoresheet - twice. The Islanders forward was relentless around the net, capitalizing on the chaos the Americans created in the offensive zone. Jack Hughes, ever the playmaker, chipped in with three assists of his own, continuing to show why he's one of the most dynamic young stars in the game.
Add in goals from Auston Matthews, Thompson, and Brady Tkachuk, and you’ve got a deep, balanced attack that wore down Latvia’s defense over the course of 60 minutes.
Merzlikins Holds the Fort - Until He Can’t
Credit to Latvian goaltender Elvis Merzlikins, who did everything he could to keep his team in it. He faced 38 shots and turned away 33, standing tall through multiple American surges. But with the U.S. controlling possession and generating sustained pressure in the offensive zone, the odds eventually caught up.
It wasn’t just the quantity of shots - it was the quality. The Americans created high-danger chances with regularity, especially on the power play. Their puck movement was crisp, their zone entries clean, and their finishing clinical once they found their groove.
Eichel’s Statement Game on the International Stage
If there was any doubt about Jack Eichel’s ability to shine in international play, this game put it to rest. His performance wasn’t just about the points - it was about the poise.
He dictated the pace on the power play, found teammates in dangerous areas, and looked completely in sync with the stars around him. His assist on Thompson’s goal was a perfect example of that synergy: a quick read, a precise pass, and a goal that looked effortless.
Eichel also fired three shots on goal, consistently challenging Merzlikins and forcing Latvia to account for him every time he was on the ice. He didn’t just blend in - he stood out, and not just because of the stat sheet. Whether it was his decision-making, puck control, or ability to create space, Eichel looked every bit like the leader of this American squad.
What’s Next
Team USA now turns its attention to Denmark, with puck drop set for Saturday at 12:10 PM PST. It’s another opportunity for this group to keep building chemistry and momentum before the real tests arrive - namely, powerhouses like Canada and Sweden.
Latvia, meanwhile, will regroup for an early-morning matchup against Germany at 3:10 AM PST on Saturday.
But for now, the spotlight belongs to Eichel and Team USA. They weathered the early bumps, leaned on their stars, and reminded everyone why they’re a team to watch in this tournament.