Team USA’s hockey dominance continued at the Milan-Cortina Olympics as they crushed Germany 5-1, wrapping up an perfect group stage run.
Auston Matthews led the charge with two goals and an assist, showing why he’s one of the NHL’s most dangerous scorers.
The win locked up the second seed for Team USA in the knockout rounds, where they’re looking stronger with each game.
"The chemistry is really coming together," Matthews said after the game. "Playing with new guys takes some getting used to, but we’re definitely heading in the right direction as we get ready for the quarterfinals."
It’s been a stunning group stage performance for the Americans. They’ve outscored their opponents 16-4 across games against Latvia, Denmark, and Germany.
Matthews has been at the center of it all, contributing five points during the tournament so far.
The Americans haven’t medaled in men’s hockey since taking silver at Vancouver 2010. But this team looks different – they’re playing with confidence and finding the back of the net consistently.
Next up is a quarterfinal matchup against either Latvia or Sweden.
For Team USA to grab that elusive gold medal, they’ll need their captain to keep up his scoring touch. Matthews has made a career out of doing exactly that in the NHL, where he’s established himself as one of hockey’s most reliable goal-scorers.
The Americans are starting to believe this could be their year. With Matthews leading the way and the team clicking at the right time, they might just be right.
