Skill and Physicality Set to Shine in U.S.-Canada Hockey Showdown; Makar Sidelined
UNITED STATES (1-0-0-0) vs. CANADA (0-1-0-0)
4 Nations Face-Off, Bell Centre, Montreal
8 p.m. ET; ABC, ESPN+, SN, TVAS
MONTREAL – When Charlie McAvoy was asked about the uniqueness of the hockey rivalry between the United States and Canada, his answer was steeped in tradition. “It’s all about the history,” the U.S. defenseman explained. “What we’ve watched growing up and, for many of us, what we’ve played in during events like World Juniors. You just can’t beat that.”
Brad Marchand, who plays alongside McAvoy for the Boston Bruins, echoed that sentiment from the Canadian perspective. “There’s no greater rivalry in hockey than Canada-U.S.,” said the Canada forward. “These are the games that inspire childhood dreams. They create memories that last a lifetime. We’re all eagerly anticipating it—it can’t come soon enough.”
Set to take place Saturday at the Bell Centre, this game is a centerpiece of the 4 Nations Face-Off.
Canada boasts an unbeaten record against the U.S. and any other team in best-on-best play dating back to February 21, 2010. That was when the U.S. defeated Canada 5-3 in a preliminary round of the Vancouver Olympics. Canada got its payback in the gold-medal match, with Sidney Crosby netting the iconic overtime goal for a 3-2 victory. Canada has secured 26 consecutive international tournament wins with Crosby participating.
“The U.S. is strong down the center,” Canadian center Connor McDavid noted. “They boast solid centermen and a reliable defense. They’re similar to us, filled with world-class players. It promises to be a thrilling match.”
The U.S. enters this game following a 6-1 victory over Finland on Thursday, where Brady and Matthew Tkachuk each scored twice, complemented by Zach Werenski’s three assists. Meanwhile, Canada edged out a 4-3 win against Sweden on Wednesday, with Mitch Marner scoring the decisive goal in overtime, assisted by Crosby.
Cale Makar (illness) will not suit up for Canada. Although the defenseman took part in Saturday’s morning skate after missing practice Friday, he will be replaced by Thomas Harley, who will be added to the lineup.
A regulation victory for the U.S. would secure its spot in the 4 Nations Face-Off final at TD Garden in Boston on Thursday. Canada would also clinch a spot in the final with a win in regulation.
“This is probably the most thrilling matchup of the tournament,” stated Canada defenseman Drew Doughty.
Here are 3 keys to the game:
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Identity Checks
In their last game against Sweden, Canada showcased its skills led by Crosby, playing to its strengths. The U.S. displayed a more rugged approach against Finland, guided by the Tkachuk brothers, which aligns with their typical style. Anticipating a more physical clash with the U.S., Canada has opted to bring Sam Bennett into the lineup, replacing Travis Konecny, to form a line alongside Brad Marchand and Seth Jarvis. -
Goaltending
Canada is entrusting Jordan Binnington again after he made 23 saves against Sweden. However, he let two goals slip in during the third period, allowing the Swedes to tie the game, which went into overtime. He’ll need to step up his performance for Canada to stand a chance against the U.S. Connor Hellebuyck remains the choice for the U.S. after conceding just one goal to Henri Jokiharju but securing 19 subsequent saves in a 6-1 triumph. -
Balancing Physicality and Discipline
The U.S. recognizes the importance of not letting physical play lead to penalties, especially early in the matchup, avoiding giving Canada a power play chance. They aim to be swift and assertive, learning from Sweden’s experience of the risks of giving Canada early power play opportunities. “It’s about controlled aggression,” McAvoy described. “You must stay within your role and avoid unnecessary penalties. It’s about seizing the right moment to be tough without leaving your guard down. Our defense aims to be robust and relentless, minimizing Canadian opportunities wherever possible.”