Canadian fans have been booing the US national anthem, presumably to express unhappiness over Trump’s recent statements. But there is also somewhat of a rivalry between the two countries on the matter of their respective hockey teams.
The game thus began with three fights within the first 9 seconds of play. The Americans beat the Canadians 3-1. This is part of the 4 Nations Face Off tournament. Other countries participating include Finland and Sweden:
Canada boos the US anthem.
— Will Cain (@willcain) February 16, 2025
Three fights in first nine seconds.
Massive hits.
pic.twitter.com/rSqIOBf0o4
I thought fist fighting was part of the game of hockey and what fans want to see.
It is, Fred. This was right at the outset of the game, more than is usually seen. This was obviously brewing.
Back when I used to follow the NHL as a kid (I was a Rangers fan), my recollection is that the Canadians outnumbered American players, and that they tended to be better players. It appears that has changed. There is much more development of players taking place throughout the USA– in local communities and in universities. There are now numerous NHL teams now throughout the Sunbelt, across the southern half of the USA.