The U.S. Men’s National Team Takes Commanding Lead over Slovakia in 2024 IIHF Men’s World Championship
The U.S. Men’s National Team took a commanding 6-2 victory over Slovakia in their first game of the 2024 IIHF Men’s World Championship. Just as time was running out in the first period, Slovakia scored a goal with less than two minutes remaining to tie the game at 2-2. But the U.S. quickly regained the lead after Mikey Eyssimont scored a wraparound goal, assisted by Matthew Kessel and Luke Hughes.
In the third period, Brady Tkachuk extended the lead to 4-2 with a goal assisted by Luke Hughes and Trevor Zegras, just nine minutes before Smith scored to make it 5-2, helped by Boldy and Gaudreau. Kevin Hayes later scored an empty-net goal to secure the victory for Team USA.
Goaltender Alex Lyon made 17 saves on 19 shots in the first two periods, while Trey Augustine made four saves in the final period. The U.S. Men’s National Team will begin their play against Sweden in Ostrava, Czechia, and all games will be broadcasted live on NHL Network. Matt Boldy was awarded Player of the Game for his outstanding performance during the match, and Team USA had a 1-2 power play advantage throughout the game. Additionally, they outshot Slovakia with a total of 31 shots compared to Slovakia’s 23 shots on target
