The Olympic opener will mark the ninth time the U.S. and Sweden have met in a major world championship, adding a distinct and unique flair to the matchup.
The U.S. is a clear favorite to bounce back from 2016 humiliation and capture a fifth gold medal, but the tournament field features some familiar foes capable of preventing that.
The U.S. scored 20 seconds in vs. Canada and held on for the result that mattered, but beneath the surface there were some flaws that must be addressed.