The United States earned a spot in the medal round with a 9-3 rout of Slovakia on Monday, the final day of preliminary round play.
John Gaudreau and Vincent Trocheck each had two goals and an assist to lead the U.S. attack. Jimmy Vesey, given an expanded role after serving as the 13th forward in the first three games, had three assists.
The U.S. also killed off six of seven Slovakia power plays, including a pair of extended 5-on-3 Slovakia power plays in the second period.
The victory clinches third place in Group B for the U.S., and they'll next face the second place team in Group A in a quarterfinal-round game on Jan. 2.
Contact Adam Kimelman at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter: @NHLAdamK
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