USA hockey dropped their World Championship opener to Team Finland 2-1. Both teams did their scoring in the second period. Finland got two fortunate bounces and jumped out to a 2-0 lead over the Americans. Dallas Stars standout rookie Jason Robertson cut the lead to one before the end of the period. The Americans had their chances in the third but were held off the scoreboard. Team Finland goaltender Jussi Olkinuora played excellent and made 29 saves in the win.
Rangers American Trio
As for the Rangers American trio, they all played strong games. Zac Jones lead the Americans in ice time playing 19:56. He was also on the top power play unit. Kevin Rooney was strong on face-offs and played well in the defensive zone. Rooney centered Team USA’s third line. Colin Blackwell was one of the best players on the ice all game for the Americans. Blackwell had one of the most exciting plays of the game. When he flipped the puck to himself as he split two defenders. Unfortunately he couldn’t finish on the shot but what a great move.
Look at this move by ?? Colin Blackwell for the chance. ? #NYR
— Here’s Your Replay ⬇️ (@HeresYourReplay) May 22, 2021
? IIHF pic.twitter.com/WEKkZ1AAtv
Postgame
I was able to ask lone USA goal scorer Jason Robertson how he could build off his great rookie season here at the World Championships. Robertson ended his rookie season with 17 goals and 45 points for the Dallas Starts. Only Calder Trophy favorite Kirill Kaprizov finished with more points (51) as a rookie.
Here is my postgame question for @DallasStars phenomenal rookie @JasonRob1999 following today’s @usahockey loss to @leijonat. Robertson was the lone goal scorer for the Americans #usahockey #IIHFWorlds #IIHFWorlds2021 #nhl #GoStars #menworlds #usa @BellyUpSports @BellyUpHockey pic.twitter.com/WcH6w6AEaW
— Kyle Hall (@KHallNY) May 22, 2021
Upcoming for Team USA
Team USA has a quick turnaround and play perennial favorites Team Canada tomorrow. The Canadians are also off to a slow start after getting upset by Latvia in their opening game. I asked USA coach Jack Capuano postgame on what he can take away from todays game as they prepare for a very good Canadian team.
My postgame question for @usahockey head coach Jack Capuano following today’s 2-1 loss. Asking him what takeaways from today’s game they bring with them to tomorrow’s big showdown with @HockeyCanada #MensWorlds #IIHFWorlds #IIHFWorlds2021 @BellyUpSports @BellyUpPodcasts #nhl #nyr pic.twitter.com/m82Of8n3af
— Kyle Hall (@KHallNY) May 22, 2021
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