McLellan shortened bench in loss to Russia: '(Drouin) had a tough night'

Jonathan Drouin was among the victims of Todd McLellan's shortened bench in Monday's loss to Russia.

North America fell into a 4-1 hole in the second period, leading the coach to rely on his more productive players in an attempt to bring the team back.

"You've got to find a way to get the puck in the net somehow or at least make an attempt at shooting, and Johnny had a tough night in that situation," the coach told reporters. "We shortened up the bench, and I thought that's where we gained some momentum. Unfortunately, when you're down that happens. He'll be better the next game."

Dylan Larkin and Brandon Saad also saw dips in ice time, although Drouin was the only player specifically talked about by McLellan.

Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews led all North American forwards with 21:04 and 20:57 of ice time, respectively.

In two games, Drouin has scored one goal in three shots.