Creating the optimal Team USA with current NHL players

Happy Independence Day! Let’s take a look at the best American-born NHL players.

It’s the fourth of July, which is Independence Day for Americans. America has played an important role in the history of the NHL and hockey. Team USA men’s hockey is directly responsible for perhaps hockey’s defining moment, the Miracle on Ice, during which a bunch of amateur hockey players from America beat the USSR in the 1980 Olympics semi-final.

But since then, Team USA hasn’t been able to reach that mountaintop again. They came darn close in 2010, but Sidney Crosby crushed America’s dreams with an overtime goal. Since then, Team USA has been obsessed with beating Canada. In the process, they’ve forgotten there’s a bunch of other really good teams to worry about.

It’s time for Team USA to stop trying to out-grit everyone because today’s American skaters are good enough to hang with anyone. Yes, even Canada. They might not beat them, but they’d surely give them a good run for their money. And with some good luck, they might even beat them.

Forwards

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As an American, I don’t think I’ve ever seen Team USA ice a lineup this good. Leading the way is Toronto Maple Leafs center Auston Matthews. Since joining the league, he’s proven he’s an elite goal scorer when healthy.

Jack Eichel of the Buffalo Sabres is one of the best players in the NHL and would give America an outstanding one-two punch at the front of its lineup. It’s not quite McDavid and Crosby, but it’s about as close as you’re going to get.

Let’s find Matthews and Eichel some wings, shall we? Johnny Gaudreau of the Calgary Flames was pretty much born to play with someone like Matthews. He’s a creative passer, he can create chances for his linemates, and he excels at zone entries. On his right would be Brock Boeser.

Patrick Kane could easily play with Matthews, but let’s put him with Eichel, who he’s more familiar with. They’ve done quite a bit of damage together at the past World Championships, so why mess with what clearly works? Jake Guentzel of the Pittsburgh Penguins is extremely good at finding soft coverage spots, which makes him a perfect left-wing for this talented line.

The third line will be a productive one with Dylan Larkin of the Detroit Red Wings leading the way. On his left will be Winnipeg Jets forward Kyle Connor while J.T. Miller will flank his right side. Miller is a very underrated forward who would give the line an additional option at center.

Usually, fourth lines aren’t very productive. But this one would be fun. At center, Brock Nelson of the New York Islanders has quietly been one of the NHL’s most consistent goal scorers. Matthew Tkachuk is a great option on his right, as his unique skill set is one that frustrates opponents to no end. Alex Debrincat would give this line a scoring punch. He usually plays on the right side, but I’d be more than happy to give him a shot on the left side.

As far as extra forwards, Kevin Hayes makes sense because of his versatility. Clayton Keller of the Arizona Coyotes makes sense as well because of the skill he brings to the table. As much as I like Jack Hughes, he doesn’t deserve a spot on this team based on his rookie season.

Defensemen

Team USA’s greatest strength might be its blueline. Leading the way is Washington Capitals defenseman John Carlson. He’s one of the most offensively gifted defensemen in the NHL, but he needs a strong defensive partner. How about Jaccob Slavin of the Carolina Hurricanes?

Charlie McAvoy of the Boston Bruins gives Team USA another strong one-two punch, this time on the right side of their defense. Seth Jones of the Columbus Blue Jackets gives them three great options on the right side. Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets would be the perfect partner for McAvoy. Meanwhile, Quinn Hughes makes sense for Jones. That’s three top pairings.

Ryan Suter would provide some much-needed leadership in the locker room. Remember, this Team USA roster is a very young one. He can also fill in just about anywhere in a pinch. The second extra defenseman spot is up for grabs. I’ve been a huge Adam Fox fan since he was in college and I’m not stopping now because he’s my pick. You could also go with Torey Krug or Jacob Trouba.

Goaltenders

Team USA fans, if you’re looking for one area where America has the advantage of those smug poutine eaters in Canada, you can turn to their goaltending. Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets will likely get the nod in net. However, John Gibson of the Anaheim Ducks will certainly give him a challenge. So will Ben Bishop of the Dallas Stars. Those are three goalies capable of stealing games.

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Coach

It’s easy to say John Tortorella, but this team isn’t an ideal roster for him. Peter Laviolette is an intriguing option, but much like Torts, I don’t think this roster is ideal for his style of play. Rather, let’s turn to Mike Sullivan of the Pittsburgh Penguins. He won two Stanley Cups because his teams were faster and more skilled than the other team. That’s pretty much going to be Team USA’s strategy.

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