Group B on the men’s side of Olympic hockey appears to be the most competitive. One proud country bounced back while a surprise country looks primed to take the top seed.

Finland defeats Sweden 4-1

Perhaps it’s easier to bounce back from a loss when your next game is against your greatest rival.

After a tough defeat at the hands of Slovakia on the opening day of the tournament, Finland bounced back in a big way, taking down Sweden in front of a crowd that looked to be on the Finnish side. While Sweden controlled a fair bit of the play, they looked a little discombobulated at even strength, as all of its best scoring chances came on the power play. When they did get an opportunity, Juuse Saros was there to stop them. He finished with 33 saves after a disappointing first start against Slovakia.

Artturi Lehkonen played 14 minutes but did not register a shot on goal, while Joel Kiviranta did not dress. Gabriel Landeskog finished with two shots on goal in 15 minutes of ice time for Sweden.

Slovakia defeats Italy 3-2

Give some credit to the host country of Italy. They’re a scrappy group that has found a way to compete in both games despite their lack of high-end talent.

Slovakia has now put itself in a position to win the group, an advantage when it comes to seeding later on in the tournament. If they pick up one point against Sweden on Saturday, they’ll clinch the top spot.

Czechia defeats France 6-3

These Avalanche players have to start saving their power-play goals for when they return to Denver. Martin Necas scored on the man advantage early to get things started for Czechia. France put up a fight, scoring three goals early in the second to take the lead, but Czechia’s talent ultimately won out. Necas finished with two points and six shots.

Canada defeats Switzerland 5-1

It’s a cheat code to be able to put three of the top four scorers in the NHL on one line, but that’s what Canada coach Jon Cooper did on Friday, moving Nathan MacKinnon up to play with Connor McDavid and Macklin Celebrini. That line created two goals, including a MacKinnon tally late. Who knew that putting three first overall picks on the same line would work?

Switzerland was competitive, but has to be concerned for one of their top forwards, Kevin Fiala. The winger got his leg tangled up underneath Tom Wilson late in the third and had to be stretchered off the ice.

MacKinnon finished with a goal and two assists, while Cale Makar added two assists of his own.

Saturday’s men’s hockey schedule

Sweden vs. Slovakia: 4:10 a.m. (Peacock)

If Slovakia wins in regulation or forces overtime, they win Group B. If Sweden wins by more than three goals, they take Group B. The rest of the scenarios start to get a little crazy, especially if Finland beats Italy. Seeding will be very important for these teams in the quarterfinals.

Germany vs. Latvia: 4:10 a.m. (CNBC, Peacock)

Finland vs. Italy: 8:40 a.m. (USA Network, Peacock)

United States vs. Denmark: 1:10 p.m. (USA Network, Peacock)

The Americans’ best line against Latvia was centered by Brock Nelson. It sure helps when an elite talent like Jack Hughes is on your so-called “fourth line.” Hughes has dealt with injuries this season, something that has plagued him throughout his career, but when he’s healthy, few are more dynamic with the puck on their stick.