USA avoids upset with victory over Latvia

The United States survived an unexpectedly tough test in its opening contest en route to a 5-2 win over Latvia.

Chaz Lucius scored the game-winner just 1:57 into the final frame on a backhander over the glove hand of Latvian netminder Patriks Berzins. Red Savage and Luke Hughes added goals as the Americans pulled away late.

The fifth seed in Group B, Latvia kept things close during the contest. The game was tied after both the first and second periods despite a large disparity in shots.

Jimmy Snuggerud tallied the opening goal of the tournament for the U.S. in the second period. The Americans had 10 skaters record a point, including Sean Behrens, who the team awarded player of the game after he put up a goal and an assist in the win.

Anri Ravinskis and Niks Fenenko found the back of the net for Latvia.

Goaltender Trey Augustine, who's draft-eligible in 2023, made 15 saves in the victory.

The United States faces Slovakia on Wednesday, while Latvia looks to get in the win column against Switzerland on Tuesday in a pivotal matchup.