Mike Richter, a member of the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame and one of the finest netminders in the country’s history, visited the U.S. lockerroom following last night’s 2-1 shootout victory over Finland. Richter helped the U.S. win the 1996 World Cup of Hockey and was named the tournament’s MVP. He also led the New York Rangers to the 1994 Stanley Cup.

PRACTICE TODAY
The U.S. practiced today at Bell Sports Complex in Brossard, a facility that includes two ice sheets and is located about 20 minutes from the Bell Centre. The BSC serves as the practice facility of the NHL’s Montreal Canadiens. The U.S. got dressed for practice at the Bell Centre and then bussed to Brossard for its 12 p.m. ice time. After the hour-long session, the team returned back on the bus to change and then return to the hotel for lunch.

LUNCH WITH CONSULATE STAFF
Nina Maria Fite, the U.S. consul general in Montreal joined Team USA for lunch today following its practice at the Bell Sports Complex in Brossard. Scott Bocksel, assistant attaché for U.S. immigration and customs enforcement, and his wife Maria accompanied Fite. Fite, who grew up a fan of the Philadelphia Flyers, spoke briefly to the players and staff and welcomed them to Montreal. She was presented a USA Hockey wimple by Jack Eichel, captain of Team USA, who thanked her for taking the time to stop by and meet the team.

JOTTINGS
Steven Santini, who played on the 2014 U.S. National Junior Team and was judged not ready to return to action after having a cast removed from his wrist on Dec. 22, is still with Team USA at least through Dec. 31 … Gavin Regan, vice president of USA Hockey and chair of the organization’s international council, arrived today in Montreal and will be at tomorrow’s game … Defenseman Will Butcher blocked a Finland shot that was headed for an empty net as time was about to expire in overtime in last night’s 2-1 shootout victory … Team USA will play tomorrow night at 8 p.m. ET against Germany and then have to come back the following day for a 4 p.m. tilt with Slovakia.