The NHL 4-Nations tournament is now over with Canada reigning supreme. Their 3-2 overtime win against the United States concluded one of the best tournaments in the history of hockey. Originally thought of as a joke, the tournament turned into a hard-fought, good series with the best team coming out on top.
Two players representing the Detroit Red Wings, captain Dylan Larkin and Lucas Raymond, played massive roles in their team's success. Will that continue when the second half of the NHL season starts?
Larkin shines for Team U.S.A
Center Dylan Larkin plays a huge role for the Red Wings during their regular season. He played the same role for Team U.S.A. while being their best player on the ice throughout the tournament. While he only had a goal and assist for two points in four games, he was impactful in all three zones.
He was good in board battles, broke up rushes in the neutral zone, and protected his goaltender against high-danger chances in the defensive zone. He continues to show the world why he should be considered one of the best centers in the game today. He was elite against elite competition. The world got to see what a world-class player he is and continues to be.
Lucas Raymond carries Team Sweden
Representing Team Sweden, Lucas Raymond was dynamite in this tournament. He was their best player and posted a point-per-game with three assists in three games. He showcased his improved defensive game against top competition and was creative in the offensive zone.
He is showing the ability to better create space for himself and his teammates. His play is a good sign heading back to NHL competition as he continues to elevate his game to elite status and prime himself for the playoff season. He is quickly becoming a player that the league needs to watch as he continues to be a dangerous player and he is only 22 years old. The future is bright for Raymond and he holds Detroit's future in his hands.
While the tournament is over now, the grind of capturing a playoff spot is now back on. Larkin and Raymond will likely put this team on their backs and pull forward for the last two months of the season.
The Red Wings were playing well under new coach Todd McLellan at the break and they have to continue to play with that intensity. Larkin and Raymond played against elite competition and they have to take that same mind-set and motivation for the remaining part of the schedule, which is not easy.