USA Triumphs, Stars Shine: Hlinka Gretzky Cup 2025 Standouts. 1st place to 4th place team reviews.

A Tournament of Rising Hockey Legends

What a whirlwind week of hockey it has been! The 2025 Hlinka Gretzky Cup delivered high-octane thrills, breakout performances, and a showcase of the next generation of ice hockey stars. Here’s a look at the top teams and the individuals who lit up the tournament.

USA – Champions at Last

The United States captured the 2025 Hlinka Gretzky Cup crown in Trencin, Slovakia, finishing second in the group stage but storming through the knockout rounds to seize gold.

·         Blake Zielinksi was a force up front, racking up 4 goals and 5 assists for a total of 9 points in just 5 games.

·         Jack Hextall put together a complete performance with 2 goals and 5 helpers for 7 points.

·         Noah Davidson was a key contributor, tallying 3 goals and 3 assists.

Between the pipes, Brady Knowling played 4 games with an .866 save percentage, anchoring the team for 230 minutes. Kaenan Smith and Aidan Hesse also provided crucial support when called upon.

Sweden – Silver Medal Surge

Sweden, after topping Group B, showcased their trademark skill and resilience all the way to the final.

·         Marcus Nordmark led all scorers with 7 goals and 5 assists (12 points in 5 games).

·         Elton Hermansson was not far behind, posting 6 goals and 5 assists for 11 points.

·         Axel Elofsson proved to be a creative playmaker, with 2 goals and a remarkable 9 assists.

·         Oscar Holmertz chipped in 2 goals and 5 assists, showing the depth of Sweden’s attack.

In goal, Douglas Nilsson and Milo Tjarnlund split time, boasting .932 and .920 save percentages, respectively.

Canada – Bronze with Heart

Canada’s run ended with a bronze medal in Brno, Czechia, after winning Group A. Their stars delivered clutch performances when it counted most.

·         Ethan Belchetz netted 4 goals and added 4 assists, a model of consistency.

·         Mahis Preston notched 4 goals, 3 assists, showcasing his all-around game.

·         Ryan Lin contributed 2 goals and set up 4 more for 6 points.

Goalies Carter Esler (.933 save percentage) and Gavin Betts (.901) stood tall against stiff opposition.

Finland – Fierce to the Finish

Finland’s campaign ended just shy of the podium, but their stars shone bright.

·         Oscar Hemming was electric, scoring 4 goals and adding 2 assists.

·         Oliver Suvanto (2 goals, 2 assists) and Samu Alalauri (1 goal, 3 assists) added crucial points.

·         In net, William Gammals logged 241 minutes, maintaining a solid .907 save percentage.

This year’s Hlinka Gretzky Cup will be remembered for its stunning comebacks, jaw-dropping goals, and the emergence of tomorrow’s hockey heroes. Stay tuned—these young stars are only just getting started!