Neither Vincent Trocheck nor J.T. Miller registered a point in Team USA’s 6-1 victory over Finland at the 4 Nations Face-Off on Thursday night in Montreal, despite the team’s offensive explosion. However, both New York Rangers forwards played a crucial role in setting the tone with their physicality and intensity.
Miller wasted no time making an impact, getting involved in a scrum near the Finnish net during his first shift. While he didn’t record a shot on goal, he contributed three hits and was a key part of the U.S. penalty kill, which was flawless on the night.
Trocheck was also instrumental on the penalty kill, particularly in the third period when he and Miller helped shut down a 4-on-3 disadvantage. Earlier in the game, he delivered a massive hit to make it clear that Team USA meant business.
Both forwards brought a playoff-style edge to the game, which could be a promising sign for the Rangers if they manage to secure a spot in the Stanley Cup Playoffs this spring.
Meanwhile, Adam Fox logged over 18 minutes for Team USA but didn’t stand out as a dominant presence. He seemed to be adjusting to a role where he wasn’t the clear-cut best defenseman on his team. The U.S. power play looked sharper when Zach Werenski took over at the point, though Fox still played a steady game without making any costly mistakes. In a lopsided 6-1 win, that was more than enough.
On the Finnish side, Urho Vaakanainen had the least ice time among Finland’s defensemen, skating just over 13 minutes. He finished minus-2, on the ice for Matt Boldy’s go-ahead goal in the second period and Brady Tkachuk’s second goal early in the third.
Looking ahead to Saturday, the tournament promises more exciting action, with Sweden facing Finland in the afternoon and Team USA taking on Canada in the evening.
New York Rangers Updates
- Former Ranger Kaapo Kakko was a healthy scratch for Finland, while current Ranger Chris Kreider was held out for Team USA.
- With the NHL on pause, we’ve graded each Rangers forward so far this season. Earlier in the week, we did the same for the team’s goalies and defensemen.
- Brennan Othmann is heating up in the AHL, scoring seven goals in his last nine games for the Hartford Wolf Pack, including the tying and game-winning goals in a 4-3 overtime win Wednesday.
- Dave Maloney shared insights on why Jacob Trouba was the “spiritual leader” of the Rangers before his trade to the Anaheim Ducks.
NHL News
- Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Shea Theodore is week-to-week with an upper-body injury sustained in Canada’s 4-3 overtime win against Sweden.
- Travis Sanheim will replace Theodore in Canada’s lineup, while the team has Thomas Harley on standby in case of further injuries.
- Finland is considering switching to Kevin Lankinen in goal against Sweden after Juuse Saros allowed six goals against Team USA.
- Trade rumors are swirling around former Rangers forward Vladimir Tarasenko, with the Detroit Red Wings reportedly interested.
- The Boston Bruins are weighing their options ahead of the trade deadline, with interest growing in defenseman Brandon Carlo and forward Morgan Geekie. Meanwhile, speculation continues around Brad Marchand’s future.
- The Tkachuk brothers stole the show Thursday, each scoring twice in Team USA’s dominant win.
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