The United States showcased their formidable strength in the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship, overpowering Switzerland with a resounding 11-3 victory on Thursday at Frolundaborg. Forward Jimmy Snuggerud led the charge with a first-period natural hat trick, exemplifying the skill and speed cultivated at the USA Hockey National Team Development Program.
Gavin Brindley was another standout, contributing two goals and an assist, while Frank Nazar racked up four assists. This comprehensive victory demonstrates a significant improvement in execution from the U.S. team’s 4-1 opening win over Norway, with the U.S. outshooting Switzerland 40-24. Backup goalie Jacob Fowler secured his first World Junior win in the process.
Switzerland’s starting goalie, Loren Gruter, was substituted out after conceding four goals on 10 shots, with Ewan Huet, son of renowned goalie Cristobal Huet, stepping in as his replacement. Despite Switzerland’s efforts, their defense was overwhelmed by the American attack, which featured 10 NHL first-rounders.
The U.S. team’s aggressive strategy paid off early, with Will Smith scoring just over a minute into the game, followed by Snuggerud’s rapid double. Despite trailing 3-0, Switzerland’s Gregory Weber managed to score a remarkable goal, exhibiting skill and determination, but the U.S. quickly regained their three-goal lead with Snuggerud’s third.
The first period ended 5-1 in favor of the U.S., with Zeev Buium scoring in a somewhat fortuitous manner. The second period saw Brindley take center stage, scoring twice and assisting on Gabe Perreault’s power play goal, with Isaac Howard adding another to extend the lead to 9-1.
In the third period, the teams exchanged goals, with Gael Christe and Thierry Schild scoring for Switzerland. However, Quinn Finley and Eric Pohlkamp responded for the U.S., pushing the final score to 11-3.
This victory maintains the U.S.’s unbeaten record against Switzerland at the World Juniors, with 24 wins and two ties. Looking ahead, both teams face crucial Group B games, with the U.S. playing last year’s silver medalists, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland aiming to avoid relegation in their upcoming match against Norway.
