Aren't you proud to be an American? The 2025 World Juniors are underway and there's plenty of representation for the Vegas Golden Knights, including Trevor Connelly of the United States. The Providence College player had lofty expectations to become a competitive NHL player. That means scoring plenty of goals and putting his controversial past behind him.
On Thursday, he got off to a solid start by scoring a goal and assist against Germany. In fact, the first game wasn't even close, with the Americans blowing out the Germans, 10-4 (over and out). Connelly wasn't the only superstar scoring goals and points after Christmas, though.
Forwards Brodie Ziemer, Gabe Perreault, and James Hagens each had two goals on the night. Defenseman Cole Hutson had five (!) assists, sparking the attack for the United States. In fact, the game wasn't even close. The Americans outshot the Germans, 56-22, and scored eight of their goals in the last two periods.
But let's turn back to Connelly for a second. There's been immense pressure on the Golden Knights prospect for many reasons. One, he's a first-round draft pick. Two, he has a controversial history that includes anti-semitic actions and remarks. Therefore, he needed a statement game to show he wasn't a bust. Here's how he made that statement on Thursday.
How Trevor Connelly proved his worth at the 2025 World Juniors
First, let's look at Trevor Connelly's goal in Thursday's game. It occured in the second period with the United States up, 2-0. The native of Tustin, California, put a shot on goal against German goaltender Nico Pertuch. However, Connelly pounced on the open rebound and hammered the shot home.
First round draft pick Trevor Connelly scores a goal for Team 🇺🇸 USA #VegasBorn pic.twitter.com/aWW3j062X5
— Tony Cordasco (@TonyDasco) December 26, 2024
Initially, the 2024 first-round pick whiffed on the feed. However, he got a second wind and was persistent in his attack. In turn, it led to the Americans' third goal. Being a consistent attacker will help Connelly at the NHL level, making him a tough matchup to overcome.
However, he must work on finishing. That initial whiff will create turnovers and odd-man rushes, putting the Vegas Golden Knights at a disadvantage. That's something Bruce Cassidy hates seeing, specifically if it comes from the offensive zone. Therefore, Connelly must work on his shot and finish plays.
But the first step is always the most important
Still, the 18-year-old showed he's capable of handling the spotlight well. He took his chance at the 2025 World Juniors and started strong, getting a couple of points for the United States. In turn, it led to the Americans getting their first win of the tournament, keeping them ahead of the curve.
If he can make minor adjustments to his game, he'll become a viable asset for the Golden Knights in the future. Considering the team doesn't have the best farm system in the NHL, that's especially important. What happens when key players like Jack Eichel and Mark Stone get old and can't play anymore?
That's where Connelly comes in. Kelly McCrimmon will rely on players to carry the load, using their offensive handles and speed to carry the attack. With young stars like the Tustin native, the Golden Knights can rest easy knowing he's leading the way. The story will be even more impressive if he puts his past behind and becomes an NHL superstar. Hit it, James Brown!