In what turned out to be the most exciting sports competition so far of 2025, the 4 Nations Face Off Hockey Tournament was a smash hit by any measure. Endless action. Physical (despite it being an "exhibition"). Dropped glove fights at face off just to set the tone. Non-hockey fans drawn in to see what happens next. And Canada and the United States renewing a decades old "rivalry" in huge games, which is tough to call it that when Canada has always been so dominant to their little brothers to the South. Well Little Brother got in the first lick, beating Canada in pool play in a 3-1 regulation decision, which put Canada in a must win in their final game of pool play to even make the finals. Well they did that, defeating a scrappy Finland team 5-3, in a game in which a comfortable 4-0 lead got to 4-3 late. Then in the finals, it was a heavyweight fight. Canada struck first. The United States got in two power punches to push them to a 2-1 lead. Then Canada tied it last in the second period to go to sudden death overtime after a scoreless third. And die did the United States at the stick of Connor McDavid. McDavid pumped a wrister past American goalie (and fellow namesake) Connor Hellebuyck in what was more or less a defensive goof as McDavid was abandoned 15 feet from Hellebuyck with nobody in between. Game. Over. McDavid also had a goal and assist in the Finland tilt, earning second star in that game, and top star in the 4 Nations Final. McDavid is an elite player and thrust the dagger into the hopes of Team USA. He is the Longhorndave Sportsman of the Week!
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