Tage Thompson injury casts shadow over USA gold medal bid
Photo credit: James Lang-Imagn Images
The United States may have punched their ticket to the gold medal game, but the status of star forward Tage Thompson and the decisions of head coach John Hynes are now the only things that matter.
Thompson left the semifinal clash against Slovakia after a dominant opening frame, leaving a massive hole in the American top six.
Losing a 6-foot-6 sniper with a 97.94 mph slap shot is a nightmare scenario before facing Canada.
He was arguably the most dangerous player on the ice early on, registering a goal and an assist in just 3:43 of ice time.
The Americans held a comfortable 5-0 lead after two periods, but the mood in the locker room is undoubtedly tense.
Without Thompson, the U.S. loses its premier power play trigger man. He already has two goals in this tournament, including a massive tally against Latvia.
His ability to lean into pucks from the circle creates gravity that opens up lanes for Auston Matthews and Jack Eichel.
If he is a healthy scratch or sidelined for Sunday, the forward lines will need a total overhaul.
Dylan Larkin and Jack Hughes have been carrying the mail, but they lack the pure physical intimidation Thompson provides. You cannot replace that kind of reach and finishing ability overnight.
Defensive depth tested before Canada showdown
The Americans have been clinical defensively, but the gold medal game is a different animal.
Canada just edged Finland 3-2 and will pounce on any line matching errors.
Hynes will likely have to elevate Matt Boldy or shift J.T. Miller back into a more prominent scoring role if the big man can't go.
Team USA is hunting its first gold since 1980. They have the skill to win, but losing their most unique offensive weapon makes the hill much steeper.
The medical staff has 48 hours to work a miracle before the puck drop in Milan.
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| POLL | ||
FEVRIER 20|234 ANSWERS Tage Thompson injury casts shadow over USA gold medal bid Can Team USA beat Canada for the gold medal without Tage Thompson? | ||
| Yes | 107 | 45.7 % |
| No | 127 | 54.3 % |
| List of polls | ||