Connor McDavid, the star player of the Edmonton Oilers, has a new-found admiration for Washington Capitals winger Tom Wilson. The two players, who were on opposing teams in the NHL, have now joined forces for Team Canada at the Olympics. During Canada's first game in the Group Stage, McDavid skated alongside rookie sensation Macklin Celebrini and Wilson, and was impressed by their talent. He called Wilson a 'forechecking god', praising his ability to create space and pressure opponents. The trio made an immediate impact, with McDavid leading the way with a powerful hit in the corner. Nearing the end of the period, they scored the first goal of the game, with Celebrini deftly deflecting a shot. McDavid's playmaking skills were on full display as he recorded the secondary assist on the game-winning goal. Despite his praise for Wilson, McDavid's focus remained on the team's success, as Canada went on to win the game 5-0 against Czechia. Team Canada head coach Jon Cooper paired McDavid with Wilson, believing that the power forward would give the playmaking centerman more time and space to operate. Cooper also joked that Wilson's presence would be useful in case a fight broke out, although fighting is not allowed in Olympic play.
