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Training Camp Day 6: Facing Sweden

By USAHockey.com, 12/20/13, 6:15AM EST

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Team USA's second pre-tournament game and first against an international foe is tonight vs. Sweden, in what is a rematch of the gold medal game from the 2013 IIHF World Junior Championship. Obviously the stakes are much lower today, however, this game is somewhat of a measure of how the U.S. stacks up against one of the world's premier teams. Lindab Arena in Angelholm is expected to be packed with fans, which will be another test for the U.S.

"Sweden is pretty skilled and they have a lot of depth," said Nic Kerdiles, who is excited to wear the USA jersey tonight after sitting out the Minnesota State game. "They work really hard, move the puck well and they're lethal from everywhere in the offensive zone. I hope it's a good crowd tonight being in Sweden. I'd rather play with 5,000 people rooting against me than playing in an empty building. It's fun and adds to the competitiveness."

Kerdiles and his linemates, Dan O'Regan and Riley Barber, did not dress vs. Minnesota State. The trio has been practicing for a few days together and is expected to be productive offensively. They also teamed up at the U.S. National Junior Evaluation Camp in August. And going back to 2012, Kerdiles and O'Regan played on the same line at the IIHF Men's Under-18 World Championship.

Tonight, Team USA will skate 13 forwards and eight defensemen, plus two goaltenders. The complete line chart is below.

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