Team USA Plays For Bronze / Canada for Gold.
Hockey fans are going to have to wait until the IIHF World Juniors in Vancouver to get their "fix" of the United States vs Canada Matchup (or catch the lowly anticipated 2018 Winter Olympics from South Korea).
Team USA had a tough time putting together a full 60 minutes in any of the games here in Buffalo, which ultimately lead to the upset win by Slovakia in game 2 then simply being handled by a faster and more physical team Sweden in the Semi Finals. The US Showed signs of promise with strong comeback wins over Canada outdoors at New Era Field, and a great last minute win over Finland. The US is not out of the woods yet, as they play a pesky Czech Republic, which likely has quite the chip on their shoulder after being dominated by Canada in the semi's Thursday Night. Boston University and Dallas Stars prospect Jake Oettinger is expected to get the start in the Bronze Medal Game.
Canada is no surprise announcement playing for Gold in this tournament. While the fans were hoping for a Canada / US Showdown (and rematch of last years World Juniors where the US Captured Gold) they are going to have to settle for sweden. Wait, SETTLE for Sweden? Sweden was the Champion City Sports choice as a dark horse for this tournament. Led by Alex Nylander, speedy Oskar Steen and projected first overall pick in this coming 2018 NHL Draft, Rasmus Dahlin, Sweden is a force to be reckoned with. Team Canada has been led by Jordan Kyrou, Sam Steel and backstopped by Carter Hart, they can not afford to take any shifts off against a very dangerous team Sweden.
CCS Pick for Gold - Canada
CCS is here at the IIHF World Junior Championships in Buffalo, NY covering the whole Tournament.
CCS articles for this tournament are written by opinion by staff, not professional writers.
Team USA Goaltender Jake Oettinger