Exciting 4 Nations Face-Off Heats Up in Montreal and Boston
The thrilling 4 Nations Face-Off is in full swing from February 12-20, unfolding across two great hockey cities: Montreal and Boston. Among the notable participants are the Devils’ own stars - Jack Hughes representing USA, Jesper Bratt for Sweden, and Erik Haula donning Finland’s colors.
Dive into our notebook for up-to-the-minute news, updates, interviews, and action-packed videos from the bustling week of games and practices in Boston!
Feb. 18 Highlights
As the tournament warms up, the finale between USA and Canada promises a thrilling sequel to their heated clash on February 15. Following intense competition, both teams took a breather on Tuesday, recharging post their decisive round-robin encounters on Monday. Jesper Bratt and Erik Haula have concluded their time at the Face-Off and are heading back to New Jersey for practice, resuming today.
Feb. 17 Recap
Post-Game Insights
Feb. 17 Video Content
| INTERVIEW: Bratt Post-Game | HIGHLIGHTS: Bratt’s Game Winning Goal |
SWE 2, USA 1
In a fierce showdown, Sweden clinched their inaugural win at the tournament with a 2-1 victory against the USA. Jesper Bratt shone brightly, securing Player of the Game thanks to his decisive goal. In a heartwarming moment, former Devil and now Boston University Head Coach Jay Pandolfo joined Bratt to present his accolade. Despite being sidelined from the Championship game, Sweden’s perseverance shone through as they aimed to conclude their run on a high note.
“It’s an honor,” Bratt reflected on donning his national jersey, a symbol of pride for him and his teammates. “This win is significant for our group’s spirit and for the future tournaments down the road,” he added.
The USA opened the scorecard with Chris Kreider’s swift goal 35 seconds in, yet Sweden responded with flair, courtesy of Gustav Nyquist and Bratt, the latter crafting a masterful shot past USA’s Jake Oettinger. Despite rigorous efforts, the American team couldn’t bridge the gap.
Hughes logged an impressive 21:21 of ice time for USA, punctuated by five shots and two blocks, while Bratt skillfully nestled alongside William Nylander and Leo Carlsson. The day was capped off with Bratt playfully nudging his Devils teammate Hughes during play.
Bratt concluded with two points from one goal and an assist, emphasizing his potent impact on the ice.
CAN 5, FIN 3
Canada dominated their clash against Finland with a 5-3 win. Heading the charge were Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, and Brayden Point. Despite Finland’s spirited comeback with three late goals, Sidney Crosby sealed Canada’s victory and their berth in the Championship.
Erik Haula played a spirited game for Finland, with notable defensive contributions including blocking key shots. Although he didn’t score, his presence was felt throughout his ice time.
Pre-Game Buzz
Finland vs. Canada Preview
Ahead of their match with Canada, Finland opted for a strategy session over a morning skate. Erik Haula expressed optimism, viewing it as a formidable challenge to show their best performance yet.
Finland prides itself on its cohesive defensive play, a cornerstone against highly skilled opponents, emphasizing the need to elevate their game.
USA’s Preparations
During their morning practice, Team USA fine-tuned their plays with Jack Hughes running drills alongside Auston Matthews and Jake Guentzel. This encounter with fellow Devil Jesper Bratt in the tournament was something Hughes looked forward to, reminiscing their shared journeys and anticipating future successes with the USA’s resolution to maintain their momentum.
Sweden’s Strategy
Jesper Bratt eagerly joined forces with Mika Zibanejad and Nylander during Sweden’s preparations, excited about leveraging these new dynamics in their games. Facing Hughes on the opposing side added a layer of personal challenge, but Bratt embraced the competition.
Feb. 16 Rundown
Sunday’s Key Videos
| Interview: Haula After Sunday’s Practice | Interview: Hughes Media Availability Sunday |
Transition to Boston
From Montreal’s fervor to Boston’s hockey haven, the 4 Nations tournament advanced seamlessly. Sweden and the USA got a rest day, while Finland hit the TD Garden ice. With USA already marked for the finals, there’s anticipation of seeing possibly more Devils on the ice in the final.
Boyd with Montreal’s intense atmosphere, Hughes appreciated the prospect of a pro-USA crowd back in Boston. This exposure to veteran talent is enriching Hughes’ understanding of game preparations, offering him invaluable learning opportunities.
Game Impact
While not part of the USA vs. Canada thriller, Haula thrilled in observing the passion and intensity, enriching his understanding of the sport’s global allure. Amidst the emotions of their round-robin clashes, Finland reset strategy swiftly, focusing on their strengths for upcoming encounters.
Upcoming Games - Feb. 17 * Canada vs. Finland at 1 p.m. ET * Sweden vs. USA at 8 p.m. ET
More Insightful Content From Montreal 4 Nations
| READ: | FEATURE: Sverige vs. Suomi | | | NOTEBOOK: Hughes, USA Clinch Top-Spot at 4 Nations | | | FEATURE: Hughes Helps Usher in New USA Hockey Future | | | FEATURE: Bratt Beaming with National Pride at 4 Nations |
| WATCH: | 1-ON-1: Tom Fitzgerald at Four Nations | | | DEVILS NOW: Jack’s New Linemates | | | 4 NATIONS RAWS: Haula | Bratt | Hughes | More Interviews |