The United States hockey team will face-off against Canada for a rematch tomorrow (Feb. 20) at 8:00 pm. The game is anticipated by millions of hockey fans for the fights, the game itself and the cultural significance of the affair.
The first game between the squads ignited a perpetual flame of hatred in many Americans. As before the matchup, thousands of Canadians “booed” The Star Spangled Banner, and many at the arena even claimed they couldn’t hear the music being played. The Canucks proceeded to sing O’ Canada with booming voices that rocked Montreal’s Bell Centre. American mega-star Matthew Tkachuk stated “I didn’t like it…that’s all I got,” when asked about the event.
After the opening face-off, Tkuchuck decided to defend his Nation’s pride by dropping his gloves and brawling with Canada’s Brandon Hagel. After the fight ended, and play resumed Brady Tkachuk, followed his brother’s precedent and fought Sam Bennett. The game finally got some action with a shot by Charlie McCavoy but J.T. Miller then dropped the gloves to scuffle with Colton Parayko. All of this action occurred within 9 seconds but violence ensued throughout the match. The U.S. ended up winning the grueling battle 3-1 but Canadian head coach Jon Cooper positively claimed “The game is in a better place because last night’s game existed.” Citing the high level of play and the passion displayed as a great advertisement for hockey.
Since the first clash between the North American rivals, Canada has beaten Finland 5-3 and earned their spot in the Four Nations Championship. Nathan Mackinnon tallied two goals against the Finns and Stars McDavid, Point and Crosby had one a-piece. After the game, head coach Jon Cooper praised Crosby’s leadership and remarked, “In our country, he walks on water.”
The U.S. team trounced all hopes for an undefeated run when they lost to Sweden 2-1 on Sunday. The Swedes were outplayed in virtually every facet of the game other than goaltending, which could be attributed to the absence of American 1st-stringer Connor Hellebuyck. The Americans decided to go with Oettinger, rather than risk the health of Hellebuyck who many consider the best Goalie in the entire world.
Some political commentators have delved into the hockey world after the trashy behavior exhibited by thousands of Canadians. Many interpret their “Boos” as a reflection of their hatred for Donald Trump. After all, the President famously refers to Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau as “governor” and allegedly told him to turn Canada into the “51st state”.
Team USA general manager and Hall of Famer Bill Guerin admitted in a FOX interview “there was a little political flair to it” but also referenced that the rivalry has always been heated. Guerin experienced the tensions first hand when he participated in the infamous 96’ World Cup game. In that matchup Keith Tkachuck fought Claude Lemieux within the 20 second mark; it may have brought tears to Keith’s eyes when his sons continued the Tkachuck tradition of fighting, and beating Canadians.
When asked if he wanted Trump to attend the Championship Guerin responded “We would love it if President Trump is in attendance. We have a room full of proud American players and staff and we are just trying to represent our country the best way we can.” Trump has not indicated whether or not he will be at the game but he will likely make a comment on Twitter, and potentially trash Trudeau if the Americans prevail.
Unlike the first game, the oncoming one will be played on American turf, at Boston’s TD Garden. It is unclear whether or not Bostonians will “Boo” the future 51st state’s National Anthem but the event will regardlessly feature some of the best athletes of our generation and be a riveting watch.
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