Connor Hellebuyck will start for Team USA when they begin play at the 4 Nations Face-Off against Finland on Thursday. The United States officially named Hellebuyck their No. 1 following Wednesday's practice -- a mammoth session that lasted well over an hour.

Connor Hellebuyck is set to start in net for the United States in its opening game of the 4 Nations Face-Off against Finland on Thursday night.

The starting goalies for Thursday night’s game between the United States and Finland have been announced. USA Hockey says Winnipeg Jets’ goaltender Connor Hellebuyck will get the start.

Hellebuyck is one of the biggest reasons the U.S. is favored by some to win the 4 Nations Face-Off. In fact, of the four countries -- Canada, Finland, Sweden and the U.S. -- the United States seemingly has the best and deepest three-man goalie depth chart.

To the surprise of no one, Connor Hellebuyck will get the call for Team USA's first game at the 4 Nations Face-Off.

The Jets have won seven in a row to move atop the NHL standings through 55 games going into Thursday’s action around the league, and it’s not just because of elite goaltender Connor Hellebuyck. They’re the highest-scoring team with the best power play and have given up the fewest goals a game, playing with strong fundamentals and sound structure.