The offense starts with Theodore and Morrissey, as the two must be effective puck movers and feed the Canadian attack. If the rest can pull their weight, the forwards will have a much easier job.

In goal, if Fucale can play at his highest level from start to finish, Canada will be hard to beat. Last year, Fucale flashed brilliance and if this seasons Subway Series performance is any indication, then the new Rempart is primed for some clutch saves and big wins as the starter.

If not, Eric Comrie has been very good for Tri-City all season, been steady all camp and can take over the number one spot.

Team USA

The Americans have won twice in the past half-decade, and led by draft-eligible sensation Jack Eichel, look like a strong contender again.

The 18-year-old Eichel is worth the price of admission, as I truly believe he is the best American born player ever.

The top-six is loaded up on offense, while they have dedicated the bottom-six to being role players (who can still score of course). A familiar strategy by the U.S. when playing on North American ice.

Eichel will carry a deep offense, while Wild first-rounder Alex Tuch rides shotgun. Tyler Motte could round out that top line, while Sonny Milano, Dylan Larkin and Hudson Fasching will give defenseman all they can handle offensively.

19-year-olds Chase De Leo, JT Compher, and Miles Woods will work in a bottom-six role and provide the necessary leadership to win gold.

The U.S. may have the deepest D of the tournament.

Anthony DeAngelo could be a big factor offensively for the Americans. The smooth-skater makes crisp outlet passes and knows when to join the rush. Ian McCoshen, and Will Butcher return and provide solid two-way play, while Butcher surprised most and contributed 5 points in 5 games at last year’s tourny.

Noah Hanifin may be sporting a full cage, but don’t sleep on the 6-3 205 lber. Hanifin is special, and will be the third overall pick in this year’s draft. Many put him in the same class as Seth Jones.

The draft eligible Zach Werensky is a sure-fire first rounder who can make plays with the puck and may turn heads as an underager.

Their X-factor is Thatcher Demko and their goaltending. If he performs as he can, the Americans will be tough to beat, if not their lack of experience may come back to haunt them against the power houses.

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