Jack Eichel and Noah Hanifin combined for six shots on goal on Wednesday. They put in the offensive effort needed to get some points on the board. The only problem was that Jacob Markstrom stopped 38 of 40 shots, keeping Sweden in the game. Therefore, no points were awarded.
However, that didn't matter as the United States defeated Sweden in overtime, 2-1. The Americans can thank the Hughes brothers, Jack and Quinn, for scoring points. Jack and Quinn set up Dylan Larkin's deflection goal, while Quinn scored the overtime winner.
Once again, Rasmus Andersson didn't play for Sweden in an Olympic game. He ends the tournament without a single point, only playing two games for the Nordic country. The defenseman being eliminated means that the Golden Knights get another player returning to the team.
Mika Zibanejad tied the game with 41 seconds left, firing a shot past Connor Hellebuyck. The Winnipeg Jets goaltender was equally outstanding, though, stopping 28 of 29 shots. In turn, the United States moves on to the next round, where they'll face Slovakia in the semifinal round.
Jack Eichel's suddenly gone quiet in the last two games after a strong start for the United States
The conversation started with Jack Eichel potentially being the Captain of the United States after a fast start. He had a goal and three assists in the first two games, bringing his name to the forefront for America. However, he's suddenly gone quiet, not registering a single point in the last two games.
But it isn't like he's not trying. He has six shots on goal in the last two games, averaging three shots per game. He's faced a combination of stellar goaltending and a lack of opportunities in that span, keeping him on the quiet side. As a result, his silent play has gone to the wayside.
If the United States wants to overcome the odds and win a gold medal, Eichel must convert some points. It's the same conversation that Auston Matthews has faced and he's suddenly got six points. If Eichel can continue his offensive zone aggression, those points will start falling for the Golden Knights superstar.
But that's not on his mind right now. The next stop is a surprising Slovakian team on Friday at 12:10 PM PST. That means no more 3:10 AM PST starts and everyone can finally sleep in... a little. That also means that Eichel and the Americans are due for an offensive explosion on Friday. Maybe the Fourth of July comes a few months early? Stay tuned.