Let's get one thing straight: The 4 Nations Face-Off has lived up to the hype. Originally written off as a gimmicky tournament with no meaning, it has had everything hockey fans could ever want. It's had drama, close contests, and bad blood. Even regular people have taken notice of how hardcore the spectacle has been. I mean, three fights in NINE seconds?! AND Lynyrd Skynyrd?! The other professional sports leagues better take notes!
The event will end in a crescendo, featuring a matchup between the United States and Canada. In case you haven't been keeping score at home, the Canadians have been booing the U.S. national anthem for political reasons. You see, it was President Trump calling Canada the "51st state" and Justin Trudeau being nicknamed the "Governor of Canada." Realistically, Trudeau's nickname should be Dave Seville since he looks like he should've adopted three chipmunk sons (ALVIN!).
But Vegas Golden Knights fans view this matchup in a different light. It won't feature three fights in the first nine seconds. It also won't contain any bad blood between the two countries. Instead, it'll involve Mark Stone and Jack Eichel, two of the most beloved franchises in Golden Knights history. Las Vegas will see the good coming from both players, representing the best parts of the organization. I know. Both superstars can't believe it, either.
Mark Stone and Jack Eichel mean much more to the Vegas Golden Knights than people realize
For Canada, the Captain represents the professional side. He's played with Hart Trophy candidates like Nathan MacKinnon and Sidney Crosby. If that doesn't scream, "IMPORTANT," I don't know what does. Stone also has established himself as a cornerstone, scoring 103 career goals and 202 career assists with the Golden Knights. The heart and soul of the team has made himself at home in the 4 Nations Face-Off, scoring a goal. Gotta rep Winnipeg, y'all.
Meanwhile, Jack Eichel has scored four assists in the tournament. He's been the focal point of the power play as well, with one assist coming on the man advantage. He's earned his reputation as the head honcho of the unit, creating magic with the Tkachuk brothers. As for his tenure in Las Vegas? He's scored 91 goals and 137 assists in four seasons, turning him into the franchise's face.
Therefore, Thursday's matchup will represent the best of both worlds for hockey fans in Sin City. They'll see their emotionally driven leader take the ice for Canada, representing the goodwill of his country. They'll also see the unbridled talent of their megastar who's on pace to hit 100 points, carrying all the talent in the world with him. If you're rooting for the gold team, there's nothing better than watching your two stars go at it (unless one of them gets hurt).
That's why Golden Knights fans should tune in on Thursday. Their superstars represent the organization's pride and joy, leading the team to the top of the NHL. Sure, one of the main stories will be fans booing a song sung before the game. It'll also focus on two hockey superpowers going at it for more drama and fireworks. However, Thursday's game will represent Bill Foley's vision: Making Las Vegas an important monument of hockey history.