The World Junior Summer Showcase continued with Team USA Blue taking down Sweden 6-1 in dominant fashion at the WFCU Centre in Windsor, Ontario.
Coming off a 4-goal first period for Finland in the earlier game, it felt like both teams were trying to match it, with chances being traded both ways throughout the opening frame.
It took 16 minutes before Carter Sanderson recorded the first goal of the game off a beautiful setup play from Wyatt Cullen.
Despite the first period ending with only 9 total shots on net, there were plenty of high-quality chances generated throughout.
The second period was similar to the first, with high danger looks for both teams, but for USA Blue they were able to find the scoresheet.
Carter Sanderson scored his second goal of the game on a poor turnover from Liam Funck in his own end.
Brooks Rogowski scored, banking it off the backboard before hitting Isak Sorqvist’s skate and in the net.
It didn’t take long into the third period for Sweden to respond. After two US turnovers, Theo Stockselius deposited it into the back of the net to bring the Swedes back within 2.
The momentum for Sweden didn’t last long when Mikey Berchild scored his first of the showcase, giving USA Blue the 3-goal insurance.
After putting together a strong performance all day long, Wyatt Cullen deflected one home to pick up his first goal of the WJSS.
To finish the day for USA Blue, Sanderson potted the hat-trick goal to secure the win.
Both teams will be back tomorrow with USA Blue taking on Finland at 3 p.m. EDT / 10 p.m. EEST and Sweden taking on USA White at 7 p.m. EDT / 1 a.m. CEST.
The Standouts:
Brooks Rogowski
When you think of Rogowski’s 6’7”, 236lbs frame, speed wouldn’t be the first thing you’d expect, but it’s easily one of the most impressive parts of his game. He uses his sneaky speed to slip by defenders and get into the danger areas around the crease. If he can play like he did today throughout the upcoming season, he’ll be a lineup lock for Boxing Day.
Carter Sanderson
Sanderson felt like someone who was in the right place at the right time all day today. Capping off his day with a hat trick, he’s going to be one of the most intriguing players to watch as the showcase progresses.
Wyatt Cullen
A guy who we talked about in our preview of the tournament, Cullen was outstanding today. A beautiful skating play to set up USA Blue’s first goal while also getting a goal of his own towards the end of the game, it felt like a different USA team when he was on the ice.
Tommy Bleyl
A tremendous skater who continues to show his talents on the big stage. Going coast to coast and jamming in a goal that ended up being called back for goaltender interference, Bleyl will be a must-watch player come December.
Theo Stockselius
One of the few highlights from this game for the Swedes, Stockselius generated a number of chances and picked up a goal as a silver lining on an otherwise disappointing day.