Tip: A lot of offensive capacity on the ice when Switzerland and Germany meet!

Germany is the only team in Group B to have started with a perfect record, securing three straight wins in regulation time. However, this afternoon, they face a completely different kind of challenge as an impressive Switzerland stands in their way!

Two deadly lines

Switzerland has, in what feels more like the rule than the exception, impressed at the start of the tournament. They did lose the goal-filled opening game against Czechia in overtime, but they put on a strong performance when they defeated the USA 3-0 in their latest match. Much of the focus was on the recently added NHL star Kevin Fiala, who drove the play and created plenty of quality chances for Switzerland. Together with New Jersey Devils star Nico Hischier and Rapperswil player Tyler Moy, the top line looked incredibly strong and was behind the 2-0 goal. Switzerland also has a formidable second line with Timo Meier, Denis Malgin, and Sven Andrighetto, who clearly have excellent chemistry.

Switzerland has been somewhat overlooked in the tournament, as much of the attention has been on Sweden, the USA, and Canada, who have loaded their rosters with many NHL players. But Switzerland is a tightly knit group with several skilled hockey players, not just from the NHL but also from their domestic league. I wouldn’t be surprised if they go far in this tournament again, despite lacking the same NHL depth as the very best teams. Their offensive edge is definitely not lacking.

Germany is easy to overlook

The Germans have started exactly according to plan, taking three out of three wins against easier opponents. Now, their first truly tough task awaits. Germany, however, has a lively offense that recently received a boost from Ottawa Senators star Tim Stützle. The 23-year-old is coming off a very strong season with 24 goals and 55 assists in 82 games. His presence gives Germany an additional dimension in their attack, which, in the absence of Leon Draisaitl and JJ Peterka, looked a bit thin heading into the tournament. From the blue line, they also have Detroit Red Wings defenseman Moritz Seider, who is an important offensive weapon. In other words, there’s quality here too. Germany’s roster, much like Switzerland’s, features plenty of players from their domestic league—a league largely made up of many skilled puck-movers with great hockey sense. But the best point production so far has come from Dominik Kahun. The former NHL player has started with 5 points in 3 games and is likely to continue leading the way for the top line.

Conclusion and betting tip

I’ve been impressed by both teams’ starts to the tournament. Perhaps most of all by Switzerland, who looked truly dominant against the USA in the last round. But I have respect for German hockey know-how, and there’s actually plenty of quality, even beyond the NHL players. I don’t find it impossible that they could trouble Switzerland, but these are two teams that I don’t think are afraid to trade chances, so I’m leaning toward the over.

Switzerland - Germany over 5.0 goals (reg time) @ -123 on FanDuel!