U.S. Men’s National Team Wins 6-2 Against Slovakia in Friendly Exhibition Match, Boldy Named Player of the Game

During the first period, Slovakia managed to score a goal from Juraj Slafkovsky with just under two minutes remaining. However, Peter Cehárik quickly tied the game at 2-2 just 4:10 into the second period. The U.S. then regained the lead after Mikey Eyssimont scored a wraparound goal, assisted by Matthew Kessel and Luke Hughes.

In the third period, Brady Tkachuk extended the lead to 4-2 with a goal assisted by Luke Hughes and Trevor Zegras. Shortly after, Smith scored to make it 5-2, helped by Boldy and Gaudreau. Kevin Hayes later scored an empty-net goal to secure a 6-2 victory for the U.S.

Goaltender Alex Lyon made 17 saves on 19 shots in the first two periods, while Trey Augustine made four saves in the final period. The U.S. Men’s National Team will begin their play in the 2024 IIHF Men’s World Championship against Sweden in Ostrava, Czechia. All Team USA games will be broadcasted live on NHL Network.

Matt Boldy was awarded Team USA’s Player of the Game and the team had a 1-2 power play advantage throughout the matchup against Slovakia. Additionally, Team USA outshot Slovakia by a margin of 31-23 during this game