Pelech and Metropolitan Division Win All-Star Game

Winner winner chicken dinner!
Adam Pelech and the Metropolitan Division were crowned the winners of the 2022 NHL All-Star Game in Las Vegas.
Pelech and the Metro Division scored a 6-4 win over the Pacific Division in the opening act of Saturday's three-on-three exhibition before beating the Central Division 5-3 in the final game. Pelech dished one assist in the two games and will take home his share of the one million dollar prize.

"It was pretty cool, obviously a lot of fun," Pelech said. "Both games, though it got a little more intense as the games went along, especially at the end there, but it was a blast and a great group of guys and fun to be a part of the whole experience."

The Islanders defenseman spent a majority of his ice time on a Tri-State trio with New York Rangers forward Chris Kreider and New Jersey Devils forward Jack Hughes. Pelech and Hughes hooked up in the first game, with Pelech dishing a backhand saucer pass to the shifty Devils forward.
"It's always weird because we play against these guys all of time, but coming here and being their teammates, it's a lot of fun," Pelech said. "Everyone here are great players and they are fun guys to play with."

Pelech's real chance to shine came down the stretch, with the Metro Division protecting a 5-3 lead with two minutes to play. The Central Division pulled their goaltender for the extra attacker and the Metro bench was urging Pelech to stay on the ice to close out the game.
"He's our best defensive player," Metro Division captain, and All-Star Game MVP, Claude Giroux said. "That's what he does, he shuts down guys. We needed him out there."
"It was more in my element," Pelech joked.

The Metropolitan has won the three-on-three tournament in two of the last three All-Star Games, with Mathew Barzal and the Metro Division taking home a title in 2019.
Giroux was named the All-Star MVP after recording three goals and notching an assist. Hughes also recorded four points (3G, 1A) over the two games.
Pelech said he appreciated a chance to get to know some of his fellow all-stars after spending a few days with them in Vegas. A couple of all-star jerseys and his share of the prize money are some pretty good souviners.