In a thrilling day of matchups at the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship in Gothenburg, Sweden, Rutger McGroarty's stellar performance led the United States to a resounding victory over Slovakia, while Sweden secured the top spot in Group A despite a loss in a shootout.

McGroarty, who was selected No. 14 in the 2022 NHL Draft by the Winnipeg Jets, had a hat trick, propelling the United States to a commanding 10-2 win over Slovakia. His outstanding performance helped the US secure the top seed in Group B at Frolundaborg. Joining McGroarty in the scoring onslaught were Gavin Brindley, who contributed two goals and an assist, and Isaac Howard, who netted two goals. Cutter Gauthier also had a goal and two assists, while Zeev Buium and Lane Hutson provided a goal and an assist each.

Despite missing forward Jimmy Snuggerud due to illness, the United States displayed their offensive prowess, outscoring their opponents 29-9 in the preliminary-round games. Trey Augustine returned to the lineup after recovering from an illness that forced him to miss the previous game against Czechia. Augustine made 38 saves and stood tall in the net, denying Slovakia during a crucial 5-minute power play. Coach David Carle praised Augustine's performance, emphasizing the importance of scoring throughout their lineup to succeed in a single elimination tournament.

The United States has a remarkable record against Slovakia, remaining undefeated in their 21 encounters at the World Junior Championship, with a record of 15-0-0-5 and one tie. Samuel Urban struggled in Slovakia's net, conceding seven goals on 33 shots before being relieved by Rastislav Elias in the third period, who made eight saves.

In another gripping game, Sweden fell short in a shootout against Finland, losing 5-4. Despite the loss, Sweden secured first place in Group A and will face the fourth-place team in Group B in the upcoming quarterfinals. Jani Nyman played a pivotal role for Finland, scoring the game-tying goal in the dying minutes of the third period and following it up with the decisive goal in the shootout. Konsta Helenius also found the back of the net in the shootout for Finland.

Switzerland emerged victorious in their game against Norway, coasting to a comfortable 6-2 win. Captain Jonas Taibel shone for Switzerland, contributing a goal and two assists, while goaltender Alessio Beglieri made 19 saves. Switzerland finished seventh in the 2023 WJC, and this win boosts their confidence heading into the next phase of the tournament.

Defending champions Canada suffered a setback in their matchup against Sweden, losing 2-0 and finishing second in Group A. The loss highlighted Canada's struggle to establish an offensive-zone presence and forechecking game, prompting Coach Button to focus on finding solutions. Macklin Celebrini, the projected No. 1 pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, led the Canadian team with six points, while Mathis Rousseau impressed between the pipes with a 1.33 GAA and. 944 save percentage.

Germany faced a defeat against Latvia, losing 6-2 after securing a surprising upset win against Finland earlier in the tournament. With two consecutive losses, Germany must secure at least one point against Canada to avoid playing in the relegation game against Norway.

As the tournament progresses, the excitement continues to build, with teams vying for the coveted top spots in their respective groups. The quarterfinals promise intense matchups, which are set to take place on Tuesday.