Ruck Brothers Shine As Canada Defeats Korea 8-0 At The 2024 Youth Olympic Games

The Medicine Hat Tigers' prospects combined for five points against Korea.

Team Canada's hockey team opened up the 2024 Youth Olympic Games with a dominating 8-0 victory over Korea. Medicine Hat Tigers prospect Liam Ruck led the way with a hat trick, while his brother Markus, also a Tigers' prospect, finished the game with two assists. Spokane Chiefs Mathis Preston also had a strong performance with a goal and an assist as Canada moved to 1-0 in the six-team tournament. 

The game featured seven WHLers who all made an impact. Victoria Royals Keaton Verhoff recorded an assist, Prince Alberts Raiders Daxton Rudolph was strong defensively, while Vancouver Giants Ryan Lin was arguably Canada's best defender during the game. While he won't get credit for the shutout, Chiefs goaltender Carter Esler was perfect through the first two periods as he stopped all three shots he faced. 

Team Canada's next game is set for Monday when they face Team Finland. With only six teams in the tournament, this matchup will most likely determine seeding in the semi-finals that are set to be played on Tuesday. The other teams included in this year's tournament are the USA, Slovakia and Czechia. This year's event will feature a new Gold Medalist as Team Russia walked away victorious in 2020. Game time is set for 3 AM PT from the Gangneung Hockey Centre, with fans able to watch through a live stream on the event's official website.