The United States of Hockey

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Joseph
April 3, 2022 (6:33 PM)

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Who is the face of hockey for the United States? There's plenty of talent to choose from in the NHL. So today we're going to take a deeper look into it. Some of the names that immediately come to mind are Auston Matthews and Patrick Kane. Along with those two we're going to cover some other guys in the conversation.

Auston Matthews: Drafted number one overall by the Toronto Maple Leafs, this guy has been a star since he made his debut. He had the world in his hands immediately after scoring four goals in his first NHL game. He has scored at least 30 goals in every year thus far hitting the 40 goal mark three times and already having scored 51 this year. Seems like the pressure of playing in Toronto hasn't bothered Matthews but rather fueled him to be even better. Matthews already has a Maurice «Rocket» Richard Trophy to his name but still hasn't had the privilege of hoisting Lord Stanley but with the roster Toronto puts out on the ice, they're a very serious contender every year. At the youthful age of 24 he's only just begun.

Patrick Kane: When the Blackhawks drafted Lane number one overall in 2007 it changed the trajectory of the franchise. Kane quickly became a fan favorite with his highlight reel plays on the ice giving him the nickname «Showtime». Kane's trophy case includes an Art Ross Trophy, Ted Lindsay Award, Hart Memorial Trophy, Conn Smythe Trophy, Calder Memorial Trophy and last but not least, three Stanley Cups. Even though Kane's best days are behind him, he's still a remarkable talent posting 79 points already this year.

Johnny Gaudreau: Drafted in the fourth round in 2011, this talented forward started off his career a little quieter than Matthews and Kane. Always a solid player reaching the 20 goal mark in all but three of NHL seasons. When he's not scoring the goals, he's setting up line mates to do so. In seven of his eight NHL seasons Gaudreau has at least 40 assists. His 2021-2022 season is far and away his most productive. In 68 games this year he has 32 goals and 60 assists. He's not the flashiest player but with the success the Calgary Flames are having, Johnny Hockey will be in the spotlight more and more.

Jack Eichel: This former number two overall draft pick has definitely had his ups and downs in his career. Formally playing six years in Buffalo, Eichel never got into the spotlight due to the lackluster success of the team. Even on a struggling Buffalo team, Eichel was able to hit at least 55 points every year thus far. His time in Buffalo came to an end after the Sabres traded him to Vegas. With all the glamorous of Las Vegas, Eichel will without a doubt thrive with his new team. In just 22 games played this year he has 16 points.

Trevor Zegras: Drafted number nine overall by the Anaheim Ducks in the 2019 draft, this kid has taken the world by storm this season. Zegras made his debut last season and was credited with 13 points in 24 games. In his first full NHL season he has 50 points in 63 games. At only 21 years of age, Zegras has made headlines with his flashy play and the skill to back it up. The over the net assist to line mate Sonny Milano was the talk of the town not to mention Zegras has pulled of the Michigan. TWICE! I think it's safe to say that if Zegras keeps this type of play up, he'll be in the top 5 of jersey sales soon enough.

All in all, hockey is at an all time high in the United States and Americans have plenty to cheer about. The constant success in the World Juniors tournament only means things are going to get better.

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