U.S. tops host Russia to open Five Nations

Tuesday, 02.04.2014 / 2:38 PM

By Mike G. Morreale - NHL.com Staff Writer / 2014 NHL Draft blog

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2014 NHL Draft blog
U.S. tops host Russia to open Five Nations

Center Dylan Larkin, No. 17 on NHL Central Scouting's midterm list of the top North American skaters eligible for the 2014 NHL Draft, scored two power-play goals and goalie Blake Weyrick made 19 saves as the United States Under-18 National Team scored a 5-2 victory against host Russia in the opener of the 2014 Five Nations Tournament at Dmitrov Arena in Dmitrov, Russia.

Weyrick is No. 3 on Central Scouting's midterm list of the draft-eligible North American goaltenders. Jack Eichel, a top prospect for the 2015 draft, had a goal and an assist. Sonny Milano, No. 16 on Central Scouting's ranking of North American skaters, and Louie Belpedio also scored for the United States, which seeks its first title at the Five Nations Tournament since 2011.

The Americans opened a 5-0 lead before Russia scored twice in the third period. The U.S. next plays Finland on Thursday at Dmitrov Arena at 6:30 a.m. ET.

The Under-18 Five Nations Tournament, which traditionally showcases many of the top draft-eligible players each year, will conclude Saturday. The tournament features prospects from the United States, Sweden, Russia, Finland and Czech Republic.

Of the five participating teams, there are 14 players among the top 141 ranked on NHL Central Scouting's midterm list of the top North Americans -- all from the United States. Eichel, a likely top-five pick in the 2015 draft, plays for the U.S. National Team Development Program's under-18 team.

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