Tage Thompson netted a power-play goal as the United States opened the men’s Olympic hockey tournament with a 5-1 victory over Latvia. Thompson, who has posted 30 goals and 29 assists in 57 games this season for Buffalo, scored with 2:25 remaining in the second period off assists from Jack Eichel and Quinn Hughes.
The Americans controlled much of the matchup but endured a frustrating opening period, striking the post twice and seeing two potential goals waved off before pulling away later in the game.
The United States will continue preliminary-round play against Denmark at 3:10 p.m. Saturday.
Thompson became the second Buffalo player to appear in Olympic action, joining teammate Rasmus Dahlin, who contributed three assists in Sweden’s 5–2 preliminary-round win earlier Wednesday.
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Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].