Connor Hellebuyck comes up big as U.S. downs Canada in OT of gold-medal game

Connor Hellebuyck has slayed his demons.

The U.S. goalie dismissed any notion that he couldn’t perform when it counts most, making a whopping 41 saves to lead his country to a 2-1 overtime victory over Canada in the gold-medal game at the Winter Olympics on Sunday.

Hellebuyck stopped several grade-A Canadian chances throughout regulation and the extra frame to keep his team in it despite the ice being tilted his way.

In the first period, the Winnipeg Jets netminder stonewalled Canada captain Connor McDavid on a breakaway.

In the second, he was crucial as the U.S. killed off a 5-on-3 Canadian power play.

And Hellebuyck saved his best for the third period, when he robbed Devon Toews of a potential go-ahead goal with a diving stick save.

The 32-year-old from Commerce Township, Mich., has faced criticism throughout his NHL career for being among the best regular-season goalies only to falter in the post-season.

He was in the losing net at the 4 Nations Face-Off last February, and won the Hart and Vezina Trophies before his Jets fell in the second round of the NHL post-season.

Now, he’s led his country to Olympic glory — and was named the goalie of the all-tournament team for his efforts.

He’ll have a well-deserved gold medal dangling around his neck.

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