The best chance of the opening frame came from Calgary Flames prospect Jakob Pelletier, who hit the post on a chance in front, leading to a mad scramble in the crease.
Canada was THIS close to taking the lead pic.twitter.com/DQsHQTHCcN
Russia held an 11-9 edge in shots through the first period.
Canada turned things up in the second period, outshooting Russia 13-6, but still couldn’t find a way to solve Yaroslav Askarov. The highly-touted goaltending prospect was shaky in last year’s tournament and ultimately ended up as Russia’s backup. However, if Wednesday was any indication, the 11th-overall pick by the Nashville Predators in October’s draft is ready to show people what he’s capable of this time around.
AP Photos Within a matter of days, two of the Blackhawks’ important long-term assets have been knocked out of competition. But to equate wing Alex Nylander, who had knee surgery Monday, with center Kirby Dach, who suffered a wrist injury Wednesday, would be inaccurate. Nylander won’t be a franchise centerpiece, even if his hotly debated potential eventually pans out. Dach, conversely, arguably already is a franchise centerpiece. So while the Hawks surely won’t be happy to begin the season Jan. 13 without either of them, it’s Dach’s injury even though it likely will have a significantly shorter recovery time than Nylander’s surgery that is of greater concern.