Team USA has revealed its initial forward lines and defensive pairings during practice, featuring a high-powered top unit of Brady Tkachuk, Jack Eichel, and Matthew Tkachuk, according to Kyle Bukauskas of Sportsnet.
The lines, shared via Elliotte Friedman, offer a first look at the projected roster construction for the squad. The second forward line featured Jake Guentzel and Matt Boldy flanking Auston Matthews. The third unit consisted of Kyle Connor, Dylan Larkin, and Tage Thompson, while the fourth group saw J.T. Miller and Jack Hughes skating with Brock Nelson. Vincent Trocheck rotated with Nelson during the session, and Clayton Keller was also present on the ice.
On the defensive side, Quinn Hughes and Charlie McAvoy anchored the top pairing. Other duos included Jaccob Slavin with Brock Faber, Jake Sanderson with Zach Werenski, and Jackson LaCombe paired with Noah Hanifin. In the crease, Connor Hellebuyck was observed in his own net for the duration of the drills.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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