USA's win over Slovakia holds special significance for Paul Stastny

Paul Stastny scored two goals in Team USA's preliminary round win over Slovakia on Thursday, and the victory was especially significant for the 28-year-old. 

Stastny was born in Quebec City while his father Peter - a native Czechoslovakian - was a member of the Nordiques. The younger Stastny spent his formative years in the States, and, as a dual citizen, chose to play internationally for Team USA.

And when he does, he knows that his extended family back in Slovakia is watching, and perhaps never more intently than on Thursday. 

"It's always special playing against Slovakia. I always know family back home is watching," Stastny - whose father now serves as a member of the European parliament from Slovakia - told Helene Elliot of the Los Angeles Times. "My parents always watch, no matter what. Usually they're not here, so they're in Europe watching on TV."

He added "I've never beaten these guys so it was nice to get it on my third try. I think on the most important stage, it's good."

Stastny is appearing in his second Olympics after serving as Team USA's captain in a bronze-medal effort at the 2013 World Championships.