Team Austria looked as gloomy as the Red Wings after they found out that the Washington Capitals had won the playoff tiebreaker in Montreal–because Austria’s 0-and-2 record at the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Bratislava ensured that their team would not earn a spot in the 2026 Olympic games in Milan.
That being said, the Austrians rallied from a 3-1 deficit to take a 4-3 shootout win against a surprisingly good Hungary team, and Marco Kasper had an assist on the Austrians’ 3-3 goal. Kasper was also on the ice for the Austrians’ 3-2 marker, finishing at +2.
You notice Kasper because he’s got a unique combination of being a speedy, defensively responsible center who also has a knack for offense. He’s stocky, he’s got great bursts of speed over short distances, and his shooting and passing are strong, but that low center of gravity and his tenacious nature mean that he’s going to be a great match-up center no matter where he fits in the lineup. The fact that he likes to go to the net, and has a plucky mean streak, are just bonuses.
Per Red Wings Prospects on Twitter/X:
Marco Kasper having a nice game for Austria. Unfortunately Austria has been very poor during Olympic qualifying. Kasper with lots of transitioning the pucks zone entries. Creating shots for himself and teammates but no luck. #LGRW pic.twitter.com/mXWxbG2Qte
— Red Wings Prospects (@LGRWProspects) September 1, 2024
Marco Kasper with a big hit to create a turnover for a scoring chance. Gets the puck back protects it and makes a nice pass for another chance. #LGRW pic.twitter.com/vEEnAL7o6T
— Red Wings Prospects (@LGRWProspects) September 1, 2024
Marco Kasper with a good net front screen and battle in front and Austria ties the game late after being down 3-0. Not sure if he gets a touch on the puck for the assist but crucial to the goal regardless. #LGRW pic.twitter.com/178MKW7zb5
— Red Wings Prospects (@LGRWProspects) September 1, 2024
— Red Wings Prospects (@LGRWProspects) September 1, 2024
IIHF is notably terrible with their scoresheets. But whether he ends up getting the goal or not he was crucial to the goal happening and Austria getting the 4-3 win in the SO. pic.twitter.com/2paNZ8evm6
— Red Wings Prospects (@LGRWProspects) September 1, 2024
