Team Canada came close but could not finish the job in the Olympic gold medal game. The loss in overtime against Team USA sparked discussions about a key play.
Fans and analysts are looking closely at what went wrong and how the moment developed. That focus has brought attention to decisions made in the final sequence.
Kevin Lowe Questions Cale Makar’s Read on OT Goal as Connor McDavid Faces Unfair Blame
The overtime goal in the 2-1 loss to the United States became the main talking point after the game. Many early reactions pointed toward Connor McDavid for the turnover in the offensive zone. Former Edmonton Oilers executive Kevin Lowe shared a different view and explained his thoughts in detail.
Lowe made it clear that McDavid’s play should not be criticized. He wrote on LinkedIn, “Agree, David – Connor McDavid is by no means at fault for the U.S. winning goal in the gold medal game on his drive to score!”
Lowe added, “The attempt was exactly as you described it: the game’s most dynamic player attacking a scoring opportunity. Period. No one can question that.”
He then shifted focus to Cale Makar and the decision made at the blue line. Lowe explained that Makar stepped up to intercept a pass from Zach Werenski to Jack Hughes. That move opened space behind him and allowed the United States to attack quickly with numbers.
Lowe described the decision as risky given the situation. He wrote, “There is no scenario on that play where he needed to force it.” He also added, “Given the circumstances, especially with Canada having controlled much of the game, patience was the better choice.” In his view, Canada had enough time and chances to win without taking that risk.
He also pointed out the positioning before the play developed. Lowe said, “If you watch the replay, just before stepping up on Hughes, Makar is in sound defensive position.” He continued, “Seeing three white jerseys ahead of #97 has to trigger the instinct to back off and live to fight another day.”
Lowe believed the situation called for a safer approach rather than pressing forward.
Canada had its top players on the ice during the play, and each had a part in how it unfolded. Makar stepped up in the offensive zone and missed the play. Nathan MacKinnon could not gain control of the puck, and McDavid did not get back in time to close the gap on Jack Hughes.
READ MORE: Auston Matthews Flashes a Grin After Slaying Team Canada in Winter Olympics
The play quickly turned into a chance for the United States. Jack Hughes scored in overtime to end the game and win the gold medal. Canada finished with a silver medal despite carrying play for long stretches and creating many scoring chances.
McDavid did not record a point in the final but had a strong tournament, scoring 13 points and winning the MVP. It was his first Olympic appearance, and he also served as captain in the final games after Sidney Crosby was injured.
