In the recent Team USA women’s hockey Rivalry Series opener against Canada, Taylor Heise and Abbey Murphy showcased an impressive performance, scoring a total of four goals. Despite their standout play, they redirected the attention to their teammate, Laila Edwards, who received special recognition throughout the game.
Acknowledged as the “Queen of Cleveland” by Heise, Edwards, a 21-year-old forward-turned-defenseman from Cleveland Heights, became the center of attention during her homecoming match. Edwards received a warm welcome from the crowd and was invited by team captain Hilary Knight to participate in the ceremonial opening faceoff against Canada’s captain, Marie-Philip Poulin. Notably, Edwards contributed a primary assist to Team USA’s first goal, which was scored by Heise.
Despite a recent knee injury sustained during a college game, Edwards persevered to play in the match, wearing a brace for support. Her resilience and skill were praised by her teammates, with Murphy expressing admiration for the support Edwards received from the city of Cleveland.
Heise played a pivotal role in the game, scoring and assisting on all three of Murphy’s goals. Aerin Frankel, the projected starting goaltender for the U.S., made 26 saves, contributing to Team USA’s third consecutive victory over Canada. The winning streak began with a triumph at the world championships in the Czech Republic, culminating in a 4-3 overtime win in the championship game.
In response to Canada’s lone goal by Sarah Fillier, Team USA dominated the second period, with Murphy netting two goals off passes from Heise. Murphy completed a hat trick with a power-play goal early in the third period, solidifying the American lead.
The two teams are set to face off again in Buffalo, New York, before concluding the series with two games in Edmonton, Alberta. Despite Canada’s status as the reigning Olympic champions, the Americans, as defending world champions, displayed their strength in the Rivalry Series opener.
Edwards, poised to make her Olympic debut at the upcoming Milan-Cortina Games in February, has already achieved significant accolades in her hockey career. Coach John Wroblewski commended Edwards for her poise and performance under pressure, emphasizing her talent and dedication to the sport.
Edwards, reflecting on a moment of recognition from the NBA’s Cleveland Cavaliers, expressed her excitement at seeing star Larry Nance donning her Team USA hockey jersey, highlighting the support and pride she feels representing her home state of Ohio.
