USA aiming to instill pride in final World Cup game
It's not the case for management and certainly not for their head coach, but it is easy to feel empathy for the players.
A flameout engendering an inescapable firestorm, the U.S squad that was swiftly eliminated from the World Cup must answer the questions, contribute to the ongoing discussion surrounding reform, try not to stare blankly as they are presented with myriad theories about the state of USA Hockey, and even comment on Phil Kessel's social media presence.
All in a 48-hour stretch they probably wouldn't wish on their fiercest rivals.
They must continue with routines, a practice, and a morning skate before suiting up for a meaningless game versus the Czech Republic on Thursday in the final round robin game of the tournament - which just happens to be played on the same day many training camps for their paid gigs begin in cities all across North America.
These players are trapped in a scenario that sets them up to welcome more scorn.
So how does one manage this unenviable position?
"I think our focus really needs to be on finishing this tournament on a positive note," Derek Stepan told theScore. "Not for you guys or anyone else, but for the 23 guys in that room."
It's Kyle Palmieri that may have it the worst. He's going through the process without knowing if he'll even be in the lineup with a chance to make a difference on the ice.
But if the New Jersey Devils forward does dress in a second straight contest after being a scratch in the team's opening loss to Team Europe, he doesn't plan on taking the rare opportunity to wear the stars and stripes lightly.
"You have a lot of pride as a hockey player, and as a competitor," he told theScore. "You never want to lose a game. It doesn’t matter if it’s for the World Cup, the gold medal, even if it’s a meaningless (game) to finish third place or fourth place in your group.
"I think for us, representing the USA, we let a lot of people down. The guys in the room are disappointed in the outcome of this tournament, but we have a chance to finish on a strong note, and hopefully we go out and do that tomorrow night."
It really is to their credit how the Americans have handled the embarrassment of losing consecutive games by a combined score of 7-2. Those selected to return to the media room barely 12 hours after being eliminated at the hands of Canada did so with ultimate class, and a willingness to answer questions candidly.
It remains anyone's guess how they will perform on the ice Thursday versus the Czechs, but if they show well, you can bet it will be for the sake of one another.