Canada and the United States are preparing for their highly anticipated rematch in the 4 Nations Face-Off final in Boston. Two of the U.S.’s injured forwards, Auston Matthews and Matthew Tkachuk, returned to practice today after missing previous games due to upper and lower body injuries. Another forward, Brady Tkachuk, also suffered a lower body injury but is expected to play in the final.
On the Canadian side, defenseman Charlie McAvoy remains hospitalized due to a shoulder injury sustained during a previous game. Despite his absence, the team is gearing up for the final against the U.S.
There was speculation about Quinn Hughes potentially joining the U.S. team as an emergency replacement, but it seems unlikely as he continues to practice with his NHL team in Vancouver. Tournament rules restrict the addition of replacement players unless the team faces shortages due to injury or illness.
In terms of player status, top Canadian defenseman Cale Makar has returned from illness, while Sidney Crosby has been performing well despite concerns over an upper-body injury. The Canadian team is focused on playing for their country, not for media attention, as emphasized by forward Brandon Hagel.
On the American side, there is a desire for President Trump to attend the final game, as expressed by U.S. General Manager Bill Guerin in a recent interview. Trump has previously attended major sporting events since taking office.
Both teams are gearing up for an intense matchup in the 4 Nations Face-Off final, with fans eagerly anticipating the outcome of this highly competitive game.