HALIFAX — Another classic gold medal game looked to be easily in the grip of Canada until a third-period push by Czechia resulted in a game-tying two goals ...
Dvorsky showed a number of different elements to his game in Slovakia’s 4-3 OT loss to Canada in the quarters. Boston Bruins first-rounder Fabian Lysell was ejected during the first period of the bronze medal game after an illegal check to the head. But after Augustine allowed five against Canada and another five against Sweden in 40 minutes of the bronze medal game, his chances took a significant downturn. Axel Sandin-Pellikka was on in the final minute of the bronze with Sweden down a goal. So impressed with the play of Slovakia. The 19-year-old, who plays with WHL Seattle, had a 1.76 GAA and a .932 save percentage in five games. All three of the NHL players loaned to Canada had an impact in the gold medal game, accounting for all three of Canada’s goals. Although he was held off the scoresheet in the gold medal game, Bedard still finished with nine goals and 14 assists for 23 points, setting a number of Canadian records but also setting a tournament standard for most points by a U18 player. The Slovaks played Maxim Strbak for almost 20 minutes per game while Dalibor Dvorsky played in every key situation including overtime. By the end of the tournament, Adam Fantilli looked more comfortable and showed off his vast array of skills. The 8-7 overtime win for the U.S. Engaged right from puck drop, winning battles, creating chances and scoring were all part of what we saw the fourth-overall pick do while winning U18 world gold in El Paso during the summer of 2021.