Despite a slow start against Denmark, Auston Matthews delivered a clutch primary assist to keep Team USA’s perfect Olympic record intact heading into the final Group C clash with Germany.
Auston Matthews picked up an assist as the Toronto Maple Leafs captain helped Team USA defeat Denmark 6–3 in preliminary Group C action. With the win, the Americans remain a perfect 2-0-0 at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
It was a slow start for Matthews, who failed to register a single shot on goal in the opening frame. His uncharacteristically quiet play reflected the broader American performance early on, as they trailed the underdog Danes 2–1 after the first 20 minutes.
However, the Americans found their footing in the second period. Matthews provided arguably his team’s most important play of the game in the third, working his way into the zone before delivering a perfect pass to Jake Guentzel. Guentzel converted the primary assist to give the Americans a much-needed two-goal cushion.
The game wasn't without its physical moments. Matthews later took a cross-checking penalty after engaging with three different Danish players. While he was responding to an earlier hit against him, officials only caught his retaliation. Fortunately for the U.S., they successfully killed off the penalty.
Matthews finished the night with one assist, a +1 rating, and three shots on goal while logging 17:53 of ice time over 21 shifts. Through two Olympic games, the captain has recorded one goal and one assist.
With this victory, the Americans are in a prime position to win Group C. A win over Germany on Sunday in any fashion would ensure Team USA advances to the quarterfinals. Even an overtime or shootout loss would see the U.S. clinch the group, while a regulation loss could force the standings down to tiebreakers. Currently, the American goal differential of +7 is six goals better than Germany and ten better than Latvia.
Although some observers and fans expect Matthews to dominate the scoresheet more heavily at a best-on-best tournament, it is difficult to be overly critical. His team has been perfect through two games, and with a direct entry to the quarterfinals nearly secured, there has been little to play for beyond seeding. The true test of this team’s mettle—and Matthews' offensive production—will likely come when the knockout bracket begins.