MILAN – Brock Nelson has waited his entire life to continue his family’s Olympic legacy. In his Olympic debut, he was the talk of the town.
The striker was at fault for a disallowed goal, he saw one of his goals canceled and he hit a post. Then he scored two stunning goals, including the game-winner, in Team USA’s 5-1 win over Team Latvia at Santagiulia Arena in the preliminary round of the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games.
“Pretty crazy,” Nelson said. It was an incredible experience, and I tried to make the most of it. »
Nelson’s presence with the United States was not set in stone at the start of the season. But the veteran left no doubt that he had his place on the 25-man roster with the performances he displayed with the Colorado Avalanche.
His 29 goals in 55 games this season place him third among Team USA scorers.
“I don’t know who wasn’t sure Brock was going to make the team,” said defenseman Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets. He’s incredible. Every time we play Colorado in the regular season, he is one of the best players on the ice. »
When Nelson took to the ice Thursday, he followed in the footsteps of four members of his family who played for the United States in the Olympics. Everyone won a medal.
His great-uncle Gordon Christian won silver in 1956. His great-uncle Roger Christian and grandfather Bill Christian won gold in 1960, and his uncle Dave Christian was part of the “Miracle on Ice” team that triumphed in 1980.
“It was another big moment for him tonight at the Olympics,” said forward Jack Hughes. I know he has several family ties to the Olympics. It’s a big night for him, and we’re happy for him. »
The Americans thought they had taken a 2-0 lead at 6:59 of the first period on a goal by defenseman Quinn Hughes, but it was disallowed after the video replay. Nelson was in an offside position at the entrance to the zone.
The United States then appeared to take a 2-1 lead at 11:35 when Nelson deflected Brock Faber’s shot, but the goal was disallowed because JT Miller interfered with the goalie.
Then, later in the first half, Nelson hit the post head-on.
“You never know how many chances you’re going to get, so when situations like that happen, you’re like, ‘Well, maybe not tonight,’” Nelson said. You must try to persevere. All the guys were positive. »
date: 2026-02-13 02:00:00
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