Matthews shines as United States maintain perfect start with rout
Auston Matthews scored twice to help the United States thrash Germany 5-1 and secure the second seed for the Olympic knockout stages.
The Toronto Maple Leafs forward was the architect of a dominant display in Milan, netting a brace and turning provider for Zach Werenski with a sublime pass.
This comprehensive victory ensures the Americans conclude group play with an unblemished record.
Connor Hellebuyck provided a reassuring presence between the pipes, turning away 23 of the 24 shots sent his way on Sunday night.
Hellebuyck cements credentials
Germany’s lone moment of celebration came via Ottawa Senators star Tim Stutzle, but it was a mere consolation in a one-sided affair.
Hellebuyck delivered exactly the kind of stability the coaching staff required following a shaky outing from Jeremy Swayman just 24 hours prior.
The Winnipeg Jets netminder looked sharp in his second start of the tournament, solidifying his claim to the number one spot.
Matthew Tkachuk also chipped in with a pair of assists as the US offense clicked into gear before the single-elimination pressure arrives.
Matthews, wearing the captain’s C just as he did at the 4 Nations Face-Off, produced his finest performance of the competition so far.
Collision course with Canada?
North American rivals Canada claimed the tournament’s top seed earlier in the day after demolishing France 10-2.
That result meant the United States would have needed a victory by a margin of 10 goals against the Germans to overtake the Canadians on goal difference.
Instead, the two hockey powerhouses are now positioned on opposite sides of the bracket and cannot meet until the gold medal game.
However, a formidable challenge likely awaits the Americans in Wednesday’s quarter-finals.
They are set to face the winner of the qualification round clash between Sweden and Latvia.
The Swedes pose a significant threat as the only European nation fielding a full roster of NHL talent.
Despite winning two preliminary games, Sweden slipped to seventh due to tiebreakers and could present a stern test for a US side that has only faced Latvia, Denmark, and Germany to date.