The heavily favored Russians were down 3-2 to Denmark late in the third period of Saturday morning’s quarterfinal match in Helsinki, Finland. The winner would advance to the 2016 World Junior Championship semifinals against the winner of Team USA and the Czech Republic. The loser’s tournament was over.
With all of that pressure, Nashville Predators prospect Vladislav Kamenev stepped up. Not only did he score the game-tying goal in the waning moments of regulation but then, in overtime, potted the game-winner.
The tying goal came off a rebound with 0:44 left. A shot from the point resulted in a save by Denmark goaltender Thomas Lillie. The rebound came out to Kamenev who was standing in front of the net. The Russian captain corralled the puck and snapped a shot past Lillie to force the extra session. Once in overtime, Philadelphia Flyers prospect Ivan Provorov found Kamenev on top of the crease and he promptly extended Russia’s tournament.
Kamenev was one of two Predators second round picks in 2014, chosen 42nd overall. He’s playing his first season in North America this year with the Milwaukee Admirals, Nashville’s AHL affiliate. He currently has 14 points with the Ads and will resume his campaign once Russia the World Junior tournament comes to a close.
He now has four goals in five games during the World Juniors.
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PHOTO CREDIT: Sarah Fuqua