If Team USA and Team Canada's rematch in the 4 Nations showdown were not high enough, Mike Ergione's speech would do it for all the supporters of the Stars and Stripes.
The NHL teased the “4 Nations Face Off: Announced” show. This is the behind-the-scenes look of the NHL stars playing in their country, with the “Miracle on Ice” captain giving a speech at a team dinner.
The “Miracle on Ice” American team was the famous team that defeated the Soviet Union to win a gold medal at the 1980 Winter Olympics. Elzion, 70, was the captain of that famous team.
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Team USA forward Matthew Tokachuk (19) celebrates in the 4 Nations face-off ice hockey game at Bell Centre, with Team USA forward Oston Matthews (34) against Team Finland in the third term. (Imaginary of David Kirouac-Imagan)
It is unclear when the speech happened, but what Elzion said to Team USA is perfect ahead of the championship game.
“When you wear that jersey, it separates yourself.” Elzion said. “This is a big deal and we're going to send a message to how far we've come to this country and the type of players we have.”
When the two teams met last Saturday, the message was already sent in Montreal. The two teams broke out in 9 seconds, with Team USA scoring three unanswered goals in a 3-1 victory.
Why Canada's Brandon Hegel fought against America's Matthews Tokachuk: “For the flag… not for the camera”
As Canadian fans booed in the US national anthem, there was some controversy and tension that led to those fights after the pack fell.
The US player celebrates after beating Canada at the 4 Nations face-off hockey game in Montreal on Saturday, February 15th, 2025. (Graham Hughes/The Canadian Press via AP)
However, when the hostility ended, it was clear that Team USA could compete with Team Canada. This is a group of stars playing in a country where hockey is a national sport, and has proven why many times in the past.
However, Elzion was unsure that he believed the best team in the world would be in front of him at dinner.
“You're very nice,” he said. “Hold it and have fun because it's special. What do you think it is? I can't wait for the best team in the world sitting right in front of me to play yours.
“You go out and show it and get something special back. That's something you remember for the rest of your life.”
Olympic athlete Michael Elgione will speak on the final day of the Republican National Convention, held at the Tampa Bay Times Forum in Tampa, Florida, August 30, 2012. Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney was appointed Republican presidential candidate during the RNC. (Mark Wilson/Getty Images)
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It may not be the Winter Olympics to be performed in Italy next year, but there is a pride that Team USA felt in Montreal and will certainly feel it when the pack fell into TD Garden on Thursday night.
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