Patrick Harper scored a goal and an assist, while Brady Tkachuk recorded an assist as Team USA rolled past Denmark, 9-0, in its first preliminary round game of the IIHF World Junior Championships in Buffalo. Former Terrier Kieffer Bellowsscored twice, including a penalty-shot goal in the second period. Jake Oettinger was the back-up goalie and is expected to get the start on Thursday when Team USA plays Slovakia.
Boston University’s Patrick Harper (@PredsNHLdraft pick) makes it 7-0 USA vs Denmark at World Junior tournament in Buffalo. Harper has 21 pts in 19 games at BU this year. pic.twitter.com/DEXc0fLMaa— Bucci Mane (@Buccigross) December 27, 2017
● IIHF recapand box scoreThis line is ridiculous right now. Tufte-Mittelstadt-Harper will do some damage at the World Juniors. Puck possession, passing, skating has been excellent. Impressive start. #USAalltheway— Matt Grainda (@graindaiv) December 27, 2017
● USA Hockey recapand video highlights
Also in preliminary round action, Canada—with Dante Fabbro in the line-up—defeated Finland, 4-2, with Kasper Kotkansalo on the blueline. Canada next plays Slovakia on Wednesday, while Finland’s next opponent is Denmark on Thursday.
Spengler Cup
In its opening Spengler Cup game in Switzerland, Canada defeated Mountfield HK, 5-3. BU senior captain Brandon Hickey logged 22:02 on the blue line for Canada.
● HockeyCanada.ca recap
Looking back
Expect Chris Bourque (played on 2005 USA World Junior team) to be part of USA Olympic Hockey team announcement January 1. Bourque is playing in Hershey but only on AHL deal so he is eligible. #EverybodyPyeongChangTonight🥇🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/ewrFSOJhg8— Bucci Mane (@Buccigross) December 27, 2017
Women’s Team
Sports Illustrated profiles senior Victoria Bachpointing out that she will begin her second semester with BU all-time goal and point-scoring marks within her reach. With 23 goals, Bach leads Division 1 and is third in scoring with 40 points. She is the only Terrier to score 20 goals in each of her four seasons.