Jeremy Swayman finally got his first start Saturday, the kind of chance that can steal a No. 1 job in a short tournament.

Instead, he gave Team USA an early headache against Denmark. He allowed two first-period goals, and the second one became instant highlight-reel pain.

Nicholas B. Jensen beat him from barely over the red line, a center-ice type shot that goalies are expected to swallow. Team USA still fought back and won 6-3, but the crease story didn’t feel settled after that.

Sunday, the hammer dropped. Reporter Michael Russo posted right before the game that Swayman isn’t dressing today, meaning he won’t even sit on the bench behind Connor Hellebuyck.

For a goalie trying to build trust, that’s the harshest message possible. Mike Sullivan didn’t pull Swayman during the Denmark game, saying, “Because we believe in him,” which made today’s decision feel even colder.

It’s hard not to read it as accountability, even if the team won. In Olympic hockey, one ugly goal can change your whole tournament role.

Jeremy Swayman punished by Mike Sullivan

This is a tough sight for the Bruins goaltender. He finally got his chance to make a name for himself on the biggest stage but couldn't capture the moment.

Hellebuyck is the safe choice, and Sullivan clearly wants stability before the bigger games.

Swayman now has to live with the worst kind of quiet, watching from up top while someone else handles the crease.

It's likely that Swayman won't get another start for USA, but it will be interesting to see if going forward they continue to scratch him, or if he is going to get another chance behind the bench backing up Hellebuyck.