California Rubber

California’s and Nevada’s Authoritative Voice of Hockey

Former Jr. Kings stars Brisson, Helleson chosen for 2022 U.S. men’s Olympic hockey team

 

USA Hockey announced tonight the final roster for its 2022 U.S. Olympic Men’s Ice Hockey Team, a group that includes two players with California ties.

University of Michigan sophomore forward Brendan Brisson, a Manhattan Beach native and Los Angeles Jr. Kings alum, was named to the team along with Boston College junior defenseman Drew Helleson, another former Jr. King.

“We’re excited about the roster we’ve put together,” said John Vanbiesbrouck, Team USA general manager and also the assistant executive director of hockey operations for USA Hockey. “The Olympics are the biggest stage in sports, and it was fun to hear the enthusiasm our players have to represent their country. We’re fortunate to have a deep talent pool — thanks in part to all the great work of our volunteers in communities across the nation — and with the mix of players who are part of our team, we’re looking forward to competing for a gold medal in Beijing.”

The squad will represent the United States at the 2022 Olympic Winter Games Feb. 3-20 in Beijing, China.

helleson-dave_arnold

Brisson won a gold medal at the 2021 World Junior Championship with Team USA. A first-round selection (29th overall) of the Vegas Golden Knights in the 2020 NHL Draft, Brisson is the top goal-scorer for Michigan with 14 tallies. He is second on the team in points with 27, ranking him eighth in the nation. His 14 goals rank him fifth. Brisson also is second in the nation in game-winning goals with four.

Helleson ranks fourth among all Hockey East defensemen in points per game with 14 points in 18 games. Last year, he was recognized as a Second Team All-American and was named the Best Defensive Defenseman in the league. Helleson won a gold medal with Team USA at the 2021 IIHF World Junior Championship.

The Colorado Avalanche selected Helleson, a native of Farmington, Minn., in the second round (47th overall) of the 2019 NHL Draft.

Photos: Brisson/Michigan Photography & Helleson/Dave Arnold

(January 13, 2022)

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