1. Hannah Bilka and Taylor Heise (USA): The duo of young NCAA stars share the first star honors after combining for five points in the USA’s 9-0 win over Switzerland.

Heise who had yet to score poured in a pair for the USA in the first period showing off her shot, which to this point had been overshadowed by her playmaking skills.

Bilka found chemistry with veteran Hilary Knight in this game assisting on both of Knight’s goals, and scoring her own on a redirection in the first to give the USA a commanding lead.

The youngsters will lead the American’s into the next generation.

2. Akane Shiga, LW (JAP): Throughout the tournament, Akane Shiga has played with speed, and was the most consistent threat for Team Japan. Shiga finally saw that pay dividends against Finland scoring on a back door play in the first period to make the score 1-1, and scoring again in the second, this time on a solo effort taking her own rebound on the rush to make it 4-2. Shiga, who is only 21, added an assist on Japan’s final goal and will be counted on as a central figure for Japan in the quarterfinal.

3. Mira Jungaker, D (SWE): The young defender has been a stalwart for Sweden not only playing in key defensive moments, but also leading the charge offensively at times. Jungaker has stepped up on the power play and in transition to keep the puck moving forward for Sweden. 

Source: thehockeynews.com