[getbak]

This idea of not winning with Gaudreau got me thinking about the 2013 World Juniors.


Going into the tournament, Gaudreau was having a breakout sophomore season. He had 23 points in 14 games played at BC prior to the World Jrs and had only been kept off the scoresheet in one game.

Despite that, Phil Housley decided to start Gaudreau on the third line, with no PP time. Rocco Grimaldi was the small man on the top line who was going to lead Team USA to victory (remember when there was actually a debate about which one would be the better NHLer?).

Team USA started the tournament with an 8-0 win over Germany and Gaudreau had no points.

Then, their next two games were against Russia and Canada. They lost both games 2-1, and Gaudreau had no points. Things weren't looking good for the Americans or the young Flames prospect.

Prior to their final group-play game, Housley shook up the lines and swapped Gaudreau and Grimaldi's spots in the lineup and put Gaudreau on the PP. Team USA defeated Slovakia 9-3. Gaudreau had 2 goals and 1 assist, with 2 PP points.

Their next game was the Quarterfinal against the Czech Republic. USA won the game, 7-0. Gaudreau had a PP hat trick.

Next, was a rematch against Canada in the Semifinal. USA won 5-1. Gaudreau had 2 goals and 1 assist.

Team USA won the Gold Medal with a 3-1 win over Sweden. Gaudreau was held off the score sheet in the Final.


In the end, Gaudreau was named to the Tournament All-Star team. He led the tournament in goals, with 7. He led Team USA in points, with 9 (tied with Trouba and Miller).