United States kept its gold medal hopes alive with a dramatic overtime victory over Sweden in the quarterfinals.
My USA vs. Slovakia predictions expect the Americans to end the Slovaks’ Cinderella run and deliver a more decisive win this time.
Let’s take a closer look at my free betting picks for Friday, February 20. Don't miss live coverage starting at 3:10 p.m. ET on NBC and Sportsnet.
USA vs Slovakia prediction
USA vs Slovakia Best bet: USA -2.5 (-145 at Fanatics)
USA has dominated the run of play through four games. They have generated 95 slot shots while conceding 38, good for a tournament-leading 71.4% share.
Slovakia lags well behind. They’ve earned just 53.4% of the slot shots, by far the lowest mark among the four remaining teams.
USA should control possession and pile up the chances throughout. While Slovakian goalie Samuel Hlavaj has held up well to date, it’s important to remember he owns subpar AHL numbers and has made ECHL appearances in consecutive seasons.
USA’s high-powered offense should break through and make it hard for Slovakia to keep up.
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USA vs Slovakia same-game parlay
USA -2.5
Over 5.5
USA has scored at least five goals in three of four games, which is impressive considering they’ve faced established NHL netminders three times.
Their offense is loaded with firepower and will be difficult for a thin Slovakian team to slow — especially if Hlajav is overmatched, as he should be.
Slovakia has scored at least twice in all of their games, including against quality opponents like Finland and Sweden. If they can chip in a goal or two, this number should sail Over.
USA vs Slovakia SGP
- USA -2.5
- Over 5.5
USA vs Slovakia odds
- Moneyline: USA -1000 | Slovakia +640
- Puck Line: USA -2.5 | Slovakia +2.5
- Over/Under: Over 5.5 | Under 5.5
How to watch USA vs Slovakia
| Location | Milano Santagiulia Arena, Milan, Italy |
| Date | Friday, February 20, 2026 |
| Puck drop | 3:10 p.m. ET |
| TV | NBC, Sportsnet |
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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