BOSTON — The general manager for the U.S. team in the 4 Nations Face-Off hockey tournament expressed his eagerness for President Donald Trump to attend the championship game against Canada on Thursday night.
Bill Guerin, who enjoyed an 18-year NHL career with eight different teams, stated on Fox News that Trump’s attendance would elevate the rivalry between these North American hockey giants. He attributed the intensifying competition to Trump’s tariff threats and comments about potentially making Canada the 51st U.S. state, which heightened the excitement in their recent preliminary round encounter.
“We would be thrilled to have President Trump join us,” Guerin remarked during the Monday interview. “Our team is made up of proud American players, coaches, and staff. We are all committed to representing our country to the best of our abilities.”
This tournament signifies the return of top hockey talents to international competition following their absence from the last two Olympic Games.
In their last matchup, the United States triumphed over Canada with a score of 3-1, a game notable for featuring three fights within the first nine seconds. The game’s intensity, emotional stakes, and the geopolitical context have drawn parallels to the iconic “Miracle on Ice” win against the Soviet Union during the 1980 Lake Placid Olympics.
“There was definitely a political element involved. It’s a reflection of the times we live in,” Guerin commented. “If you allow it to overwhelm you, it can lead to problems. However, I believe the players have channeled it into their motivation.”
Since his inauguration on January 20, Trump has also attended the Super Bowl and NASCAR’s Daytona 500.
