"If you're playing man-to-man and individual players aren't giving 100 percent, aren't pressing, then you're outnumbered," explained the national coach.
"Road games are about momentum, both ways, both winning and losing. Hopefully, the game in Colorado has given us confidence. I think you saw against Houston that was the case..."
Berube noted that the decision for an optional skate came after players logged excessive minutes during overtime, which led him to prioritize their rest and recovery.
"When Magomed pushed him to the fence near our corner, it seemed to me that Pereira was greased with something. It happens - fighters get greased up for sparring sessions. Or when they're cutting weight they use some ointment, the way it goes the sweat doesn't flow off, but jells up."
Nico Sturm was ruled as a game-time decision with a lower-body injury after blocking a shot off his foot. Coach Warsofsky noted Sturm's strong performance and expressed concern about his potential absence, saying, "He's playing well right now. I think he's playing some of his best hockey. So if he can't go, it'll be a tough loss... Everything's a little bit up in the air right now." This highlights the impact Sturm's injury could have on the team's strategy for the upcoming game.
