The first week of Olympic men's ice hockey in Milan has concluded, with the North American teams predictably securing top seeds, though not without some bumps and bruises along the way, and some surprise upsets along the way. The Colorado Avalanche sent eight of their number to the Olympics, representing five different nations, and as we look to the quarter-final round, it's a good time to look at how the Avs are performing in international play.
Different uniforms, same story
It shouldn't surprise anyone to know that of the Avs representatives pursuing the gold medal, Nathan MacKinnon Cale Makar, and Martin Necas are leading the way for the points race in a three-way tie with five points a piece. Both forwards have two goals and three assists through three games, with MacKinnon and Makar playing on a juggernaut Canadian squad that won Group C.
International play doesn't technically count towards any awards consideration, but Makar has been proving himself as one of the best defenseman in the world which shouldn't hurt his Norris hopes this year. Meanwhile MacKinnon has still found way to stand out on a Canadian forward group being highlighted by an impressive debut from Macklin Celebrini.
Necas and Czechia have had more of an up and down road, but are still looking to contend.
Meanwhile, Artturi Lehkonen has four points for Team Finland, joined by Joel Kiviranta who has two goals so far. Finland ran up the score 11-1 against X, with both getting in on the action.
For the U.S. National Team, Brock Nelson has two goals and an assist through his three games, continuing his family tradition of Olympic contribution for the Americans. He may have had more goals if not for Latvia's video coach having an excellent eye to challenge two potential notches in their first game.
The Captain Returns
Saving the most important for last, Gabe Landeskog has been leading Team Sweden as their captain in much the same capacity as he has for the Avalanche. Landeskog only has one goal for the Swedes, but the team has certainly been benefitting from his steadying presence and experience.
His return from injury after missing most of the month of January is reassuring especially as he and the Avalanche ramp up as the playoffs approach.