The United States and Canada don't like each other right now. You could probably tell by a swath of Canadians booing the Star-Spangled Banner in the past month. Let's just say the whole talk about the country up north becoming the 51st state isn't sitting well with other people. The whole situation is dicey to even think about.
But let's look at things from a local lens, shall we? Mark Stone and Jack Eichel represent the Vegas Golden Knights in the 4 Nations Face-Off. They've done well as linemates throughout the 2024-25 season, leading their team to the top of the Pacific Division. Stone has 14 goals and 35 assists while his teammate is among the league's best, scoring 19 goals and 50 assists.
That sounds nice and all. However, that won't be the case on Saturday. Why? They're enemies for one night. They could face off against each other in the championship round. But for now? They're enemies for one night. Oh, who to cheer for on Saturday?
Golden Knights fans will cheer for the good ol' U.S. of A. That much is true (unless they live in Canada, of course). After all, Las Vegas isn't a part of Canada, for it's closer to Mexico. However, this will be one fun night where the two North American powers battle for supremacy. But the two players fighting each other have much more to fight for.
Mark Stone and Jack Eichel are fighting for the legacy of their country's respective hockey histories
In 1980, the United States went up against the big, bad Soviets. This team was filled with punishing players with all the speed and strength to knock Superman into another dimension. These were professional athletes taking on a team of amateurs here. But on a magical night of February 22, 1980, the Americans were in a tight contest, down 3-2. That's when people started believing in miracles.
Behind two third-period goals, the United States pulled off one of the most improbable upsets in Olympics history. They went on to win the gold medal in ice hockey that season, cementing a remarkable tournament at Lake Placid.
Meanwhile, you have Canada, which is the heart and soul of the hockey scene. With legendary teams such as the Toronto Maple Leafs, Edmonton Oilers, and Montreal Canadiens, the country lives and breathes hockey. Yes, the scene in the country has been rocked by terrible scandals, including sexual assault and abuse, delivering a black eye among its institutions. However, the sport is still Canada's lifeblood.
That's what makes Saturday's contest unique
Both teams will rely on their deep hockey history as inspiration to win. This is also an exhibition tournament that involves players playing for pride. They want to win for their respective countries and make their citizens proud. It's the same for the Americans as it is for the Canadians. The Americans believe in freedom, freedom, and freedom with bald eagles. Canada believes in being a good neighbor and helping the less fortunate... eh?
If America wins, cue the Team America theme. Jack Eichel will get bragging rights and Vegas Golden Knights fans will cheer. If Canada wins, Mark Stone will have something to joke about alongside Adin Hill and the healing Shea Theodore. Golden Knights fans will still cheer for Stone since he is one of theirs, after all.
But the 4 Nations Face-Off is like life itself. It's not anything to worry about for it'll be just a chapter in the history books. Therefore, let's enjoy the festivities and root for the Golden Knights to do their best... and not get hurt.