MILAN – The U.S. Olympic Men’s Ice Hockey Team is set to compete in its third and final preliminary round match of the Olympic tournament this evening against Germany at Santaguilia Ice Arena. The opening faceoff is scheduled for 9:10 p.m. local time/3:10 p.m. ET, and the game will be broadcast live on USA Network and streamed on Peacock.
First place in Group C and a bye to the quarterfinal round, commencing on Wednesday (Feb. 18), are on the line. Teams that do not secure a bye will participate in the eight-team qualification round on Tuesday, with the victors advancing to the quarterfinals.
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By earning any point in tonight’s game (win, overtime win, or overtime loss), the U.S. will claim the top position in Group C. If Germany secures a regulation win against the U.S., Team USA could still top the group if: 1) Latvia defeats Denmark in regulation and 2) Germany wins by two goals or fewer.
The U.S. and Germany have met 10 times previously in the Olympic tournament, with Team USA winning all but one encounter. Their most recent clash occurred during the 2022 Games, where the U.S. achieved a 3-2 victory. Drew Commesso recorded 24 saves, while Steven Kampfer, Matthew Knies, and Nathan Smith contributed goals to ensure Team USA finished the preliminary round without a loss.
Entering tonight’s match, the U.S. holds a 2-0 record following a 6-3 victory over Denmark last night and a 5-1 win against Latvia on Thursday (Feb. 12). Germany, currently at 1-1, suffered a 4-3 defeat to Latvia yesterday after beginning the tournament with a 3-1 win over Denmark on Thursday.
Connor Hellebuyck is anticipated to return as the starting goaltender for Team USA tonight. He played a key role in the U.S.’s 5-1 win over Latvia on Wednesday, making 17 saves on 18 shots.
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