Team USA Hockey GM Says ‘Political Flair’ Added to Fight-Filled Game Against Canada — Wants Trump to Attend Rematch
Team USA Hockey general manager Bill Guerin claimed President Donald Trump’s desire to annex Canada added “political flair” when the countries’ respective teams faced off.
Team USA and Team Canada had an explosive beginning to their 4 Nations Face-Off game Sunday when three fights broke out within the first few seconds. Those fights came after the Canadian crowd booed during the singing of The Star-Spangled Banner — a new tradition started in response to Trump’s recent comments.
The Americans won the first game 3-1 to advance to the 4 Nations Face-Off championship. After the loss, the Canadians beat Finland 5-3 to secure the rematch. The championship game will be played at Boston’s TD Garden on Thursday night.
Appearing on America’s Newsroom on Monday morning, Guerin explained how the age-old rivalry between the countries’ teams — in addition to recent political tensions — made it such a fiery match.
“I think a little bit of everything,” Guerin said when asked what may have led to the anthem boos. “I mean, Canada-U.S. is a huge rivalry in hockey. You know, I think there was a little bit of a political flair to it. It’s just the time that we’re in. And then, you know, I think our guys use that as inspiration. If you let it get the better of you, then you’re in trouble; but I really do think the players use it as inspiration.”
At the time of the interview, Team USA’s opponent in the final wasn’t known yet. Still, Guerin added that if it were Canada, he would “love” for the president to be in the building.
“There are two games today,” he said, “one at 1 o’clock — Canada plays Finland — and then we play Sweden tonight at 8 o’clock; and that will decide who’s gonna play in the championship game. And we would love it if President Trump was in attendance. We have a room full of proud American players and coaches and staff; and listen, we’re just trying to represent our country the best way we can.”
Watch above via Fox News.
