Team Canada’s reaction was basically respect mixed with frustration: they felt they had to make Connor Hellebuyck’s job harder, and Sam Bennett said they had “made it too easy” for him in their first meeting.

What they said

  • Bennett pointed out Canada didn’t challenge Hellebuyck enough and said rebound chances would be key the next time they faced him.
  • The overall tone from the Canadian side was that they believed they could have done more to test him with traffic and second chances.

What it meant on the ice

Canada generated 26 shots on goal and 30 scoring chances in the first matchup, but Hellebuyck still allowed only one goal and finished with a .957 save percentage in the tournament.

That led to the feeling that the difference was less about Canada’s effort and more about Hellebuyck’s elite performance in net.

Broader reaction

Postgame coverage described Canada’s loss as a tough, somber result, with discussion focusing on Hellebuyck, Canada’s depth scoring, and the need to adjust for future meetings.

In short, Team Canada seemed to react with grudging admiration: they recognized Hellebuyck was outstanding, while also blaming themselves for not forcing enough chaos around the crease.