Russell’s Roundup: USA Defeats Canada, Holmstrom’s Extension Projection

Wow. What a night for hockey. Served in prime time on national television against the corpse of the NBA Dunk Contest. USA versus Canada delivered on every single level. Three fights within the first nine seconds. Starpower from Connor McDavid’s jaw-dropping goal to Connor Hellebuyck shutting the door afterward.

After an emotional start, the entire hockey world experienced what the New York Islanders felt for two straight postseasons. Jaccob Slavin’s dominance. Zone entries against him? Forget about it. He’s just a superstar, and it has shown in a major way in Montreal. Elsewhere, Jake Guentzel scored a pair, while Dylan Larkin scored the game-winning goal.

As for Brock Nelson? He played a great game in the role predetermined for him for this tournament. Nelson dominated defensively, blanking Canada’s star-laden power play despite their multiple opportunities. He shined bright and showed his well-rounded game, even when he’s not expected to contribute offensively.

New York Islanders:

Simon Holmstrom’s due for a raise. With how much he’s picked up his game, it’s become a matter of how much and how long. We go over the possibilities here.

Previously, I looked over the field and made predictions for the rest of the season. They ranged from a Brock Nelson trade to a big swing by Lou Lamoriello and how it affects the Islanders’ playoff hopes. Read it all here.

Beyond that, we looked at one thing the Islanders must improve. Here’s a big hint: It’s the league’s worst power play. Oops, big hint. Here’s the analysis.

4 Nation’s Recap, NHL Trade Rumors & National Hockey Now:

Pittsburgh Hockey Now: Dan Kingerski wrote up the epic between the USA and Canada. He admits his fault in downplaying the tournament, as many expected it to be a glorified All-Star Game. Instead, it’s drawn massive viewers and has set social media alight. Read it all here.

Sportsnet: Perhaps overshadowed by the amazing US/Canada game, Sweden and Finland absolutely delivered in their Nordic clash Saturday afternoon. Both teams took leads before the game reached overtime. Mikael Granlund won it for Finland and kept them alive in the 4 Nations Face-Off.

Philly Hockey Now: Back in the NHL, the Philadelphia Flyers’ season has gone up in smoke. Here’s William James bringing in some good news, with updates on all their top prospects.

Vegas Hockey Now: The great Hannah Kirkell tackled the Shea Theodore issue for the Golden Knights. Here are three options to fill the hole, at least temporarily.

NBC Boston: Brad Marchand’s name has popped up in trade rumors for a few weeks, but how valid the chatter remains debatable. He’s a pending UFA, so some chatter is inevitable. Marchand is the final link to the old Bruins’ culture and the 2011 Stanley Cup. Marchand shrugged off rumors as fans having fun.