Welcome to Last Word On Hockey’s editions of the IIHF World Junior Hockey Championships predictions. Throughout the tournament our team will break down key matchups, storylines and stats, then make a prediction on how the game will play out. You can also check out our NHL editions. For this edition, we’ll take a look at the host United States taking on a very talented Slovakia squad.
World Junior Championship Predictions: USA vs Slovakia
Overall Head-to-Head: Slovakia 5- 15 United States; one tie
US TV: NHL Network
Canada TV: TSN
Time: 6 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST)
Today’s edition of World Junior Championship predictions features the United States taking on Slovakia in the third game of the tournament for both nations. Both countries had Sunday off to prepare for this game and are coming off wins on Saturday.
The Americans are off to a 2-0 start but had to work hard against Switzerland for a 2-1 victory. Team USA was much improved on the defensive end in the second game after getting a 6-3 victory in the opener over Germany. However, the Americans know the degree of difficulty increases as the tournament continues.
Slovakia gave Sweden a hard time before losing, 3-2, in the opening game. However, the Slovaks rebounded with their own 4-1 triumph over Germany in game two.
Let’s take a look at the stats and storylines in this round of World Junior Championship predictions.
The USA Story
Team USA is feeling the weight of expectations as the hosts and two-time defending champions. The Americans lost Washington Capitals defensive prospect Cole Hutson after getting hit by a puck. His status for the game against Slovakia is uncertain.
Fellow Capitals prospect Nicholas Kempf got the win in between the pipes and could draw the start again. Tampa Bay Lightning draftee Caleb Heil got the win in the tournament opener against Germany.
Boston Bruins prosect Will Zellers leads the way with three goals and an assist so far. Pittsburgh Penguins draft choice Will Horcroff has also been solid this tournament.
The Slovakia Story
Slovakia has seen marked improvement in the last few tournaments. The country has proven to be a tough out for the major powers like Canada, the U.S., and Sweden.
Detroit Red Wings third-round pick Michal Pradel sits atop the goaltending charts with a .971 save percentage and 1.00 goals-against-average. The Americans will have to work hard to find a way past the 6-foot, 5-inch goalie.
Tomas Chrenko rattled off a hat trick in the victory over Germany and has improved his draft stock. Draft eligible prospect Adam Nemec, who is the brother of New Jersey Devils blueliner Simon Nemec, has two assists so far.
Prediction
This won’t be an easy game for the hosts. A win for the United States would likely give them a high seed for the quarterfinals. However, Slovakia won’t just roll over for the two-time champions.
A victory here would give Slovakia plenty of momentum and be a statement victory. The Slovaks have the tools to pull off the upset, but the hosts find a way to get the win.
Prediction: United States wins 4-3 in overtime.
Main photo by: David Reginek-Imagn Images
Please play responsibly, check for your local rules and age restrictions; some jurisdictions require ages 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
