Tage Thompson's goal helps Team USA over Latvia

Sabres winger scores on power play as Team USA beats Latvia 5-1 in Olympic opener

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Buffalo Sabres winger Tage Thompson scored a power-play goal to help Team USA defeat Latvia 5-1 in their opening game of the 2026 Winter Olympics. Thompson played on a line with Dylan Larkin and Kyle Connor, and his goal came off a pass from former Sabres captain Jack Eichel. Team USA had a tough start, with two early goals disallowed, but broke the game open in the second period with goals from Brock Nelson and Thompson. Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck made 17 saves for Team USA.

Why it matters

Thompson's goal was a key contribution to Team USA's victory in their Olympic opener. As one of the rising young stars in the NHL, Thompson's performance on the international stage could boost his profile and help establish him as a key player for the U.S. national team going forward.

The details

Thompson scored his power-play goal in the second period, taking a pass from Eichel and roofing a backhand shot under the crossbar. Team USA had a tough start, with two early goals disallowed due to offsides and goaltender interference calls. But they broke the game open in the second period, with Nelson scoring twice and Thompson adding his tally. Hellebuyck made 17 saves to secure the win for Team USA.

  • Team USA faced Latvia on Thursday, February 13, 2026.
  • Thompson scored his power-play goal in the second period.

The players

Tage Thompson

Buffalo Sabres winger who scored a power-play goal for Team USA.

Jack Eichel

Former Buffalo Sabres captain who assisted on Thompson's goal.

Connor Hellebuyck

Winnipeg Jets goaltender who made 17 saves for Team USA.

Brock Nelson

Colorado Avalanche forward who scored two goals for Team USA.

Dylan Larkin

Detroit Red Wings forward who played on a line with Thompson and Kyle Connor.

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What they’re saying

“Tage and I have always had that chemistry, even back when we played together in Buffalo. It was great to see him bury one on the power play today.”

— Jack Eichel (audacy.com)

What’s next

Team USA will face Denmark on Saturday, February 15, 2026.

The takeaway

Thompson's goal was a key contribution to Team USA's victory, showcasing his offensive talent and chemistry with former Sabres teammate Eichel. As a rising star, Thompson's performance in the Olympics could help boost his profile on the international stage.