On a recent evening, Taylor Heise and Abbey Murphy showcased their skills by scoring four goals combined in Team USA women’s hockey Rivalry Series-opening victory against Canada, with the spotlight ultimately shining on teammate Laila Edwards.
Referring to Edwards as the “Queen of Cleveland,” Heise shared that this nickname had been circulating among the team all week. Edwards, a 21-year-old from Cleveland Heights, made a memorable return to her hometown, receiving thunderous cheers when introduced, participating in the ceremonial faceoff at the invitation of captain Hilary Knight, and contributing the primary assist for the opening American goal.
Expressing her excitement, Edwards described the moment when her shot led to Heise’s goal, equalizing the score at 1 during the first period. Edwards, the first Black female player to represent Team USA, transitioned from a forward to a defenseman.
Despite sustaining a knee injury in a college game three weeks prior, which still requires her to wear a brace, Edwards persevered to contribute to the team. Her teammates, including Murphy, praised her resilience and the support she received from her hometown of Cleveland.
Heise’s impressive performance included scoring goals and assisting on all three of Murphy’s goals. Goalkeeper Aerin Frankel made 26 saves, securing the Americans’ third consecutive victory over Canada, following their recent success at the world championships in the Czech Republic.
Canada’s lone goal was scored by Sarah Fillier, with Eve Gascon making her debut in goal for the Canadian national team. The Canadian team, under coach Troy Ryan, opted for a younger lineup, leaving key veterans like goalie Ann-Renee Desbiens at home. The series will continue in Buffalo, New York, before concluding with two games in Edmonton, Alberta.
While the American team holds the title of defending world champions, Canada clinched their fifth Olympic gold at the 2022 Beijing Games. Fillier emphasized the team’s determination to learn from their defeat and make a statement in the upcoming matches.
As the game unfolded, goals were traded swiftly between Fillier and Heise before Murphy’s decisive contributions in the second and third periods, securing the American victory. Edwards, poised to make her Olympic debut at the Milan-Cortina Games in February, has already achieved significant success in her career, including a national championship and a world championship gold medal.
Coach John Wroblewski commended Edwards for her poise under pressure, highlighting her natural talent and competitiveness. Despite her accomplishments, Edwards was humbled by the recognition she received, particularly when NBA player Larry Nance Jr. sported her USA hockey jersey at a recent Cavaliers game, a gesture that deeply resonated with Edwards, a proud Ohio native.