World Cup of Hockey 2016: Get to know the United States Forwards

Team USA Forwards

Justin Abdelkader, Detroit Red Wings

David Backes, Boston Bruins

Brandon Dubinsky, Columbus Blue Jackets

Patrick Kane, Chicago Blackhawks

Ryan Kesler, Anaheim Ducks

T.J. Oshie, Washington Capitals

Max Pacioretty, Montreal Canadiens

Kyle Palmieri, New Jersey Devils

Zach Parise, Minnesota Wild

Joe Pavelski, San Jose Sharks

Derek Stepan, New York Rangers

James van Riemsdyk, Toronto Maple Leafs

Blake Wheeler, Winnipeg Jets

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Joe Pavelski

Captain America finally got his C and will lead Team USA to ... victory, I guess. He’ll likely spend time on the first line with Patrick Kane and James Van Riemsdyk, which in a hockey sense will be a lot of fun to watch. I won’t pretend to be excited about watching Pavelski help Kane score goals.

Max Pacioretty

The captain of the Canadiens is American — something that never ceases to amaze me. While Pacioretty is probably overrated by the team he plays for, he’s a very good playmaking forward who will offer a lot to Team USA. He’s scored at least 60 points in each of his last three seasons.

James Van Riemsdyk

Once a part of an American-dominated line for the Toronto Maple Leafs, JVR had to play last season without Phil Kessel and, I assume brought on by broken heartedness, played in only 40 contests. If he’s healthy, he’s one of the better forwards in the NHL — if not... Team USA is in trouble.

Group: A

First Game: Team USA vs. Team Europe, Sept. 17, 12:30 p.m., ESPN2