Auston Matthews has been named the captain of the United States team for the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off, contrasting with the other competing teams that are dealing with significant injury challenges. Canada will be led by Sidney Crosby, who has previously captained his team to Olympic and World Cup victories. They are currently in need of a substitute for defenseman Alex Pietrangelo, a two-time Stanley Cup champion, due to his withdrawal for health reasons.
Sweden, under the captaincy of Victor Hedman, has also made a goaltender replacement for an injured player and may need additional skater replacements. Meanwhile, Finland’s Aleksander Barkov will carry the captain’s mantle but will miss top defenseman Miro Heiskanen, who sustained an injury during a recent game.
Matthews’ appointment as a captain was anticipated, especially following his earlier selection for the same role with the Toronto Maple Leafs at the start of the season. Supporting him in alternate positions will be Matthew Tkachuk, fresh off a Stanley Cup win with Barkov and the Florida Panthers, and Boston’s Charlie McAvoy. General Manager Bill Guerin expressed confidence in the leadership they each bring, highlighting their passion and commitment to representing their country and striving towards their collective goal. The U.S. last claimed an international championship featuring top players globally back in 2004 during the World Cup of Hockey.
In Canada, Crosby has a storied history of leadership, having captained teams to Olympic gold medals in both 2010 and 2014, as well as the 2016 World Cup. Despite the emergence of Connor McDavid as arguably the league’s top player, he and Cale Makar will serve as alternate captains alongside Crosby. Coach Jon Cooper acknowledged the exceptional leadership qualities of the trio, emphasizing their determination and desire to bring home a victory for Canada. However, team dynamics have shifted with the withdrawal of Pietrangelo, who is focusing on his health as he prepares for the NHL season.
Sweden’s Hedman, like Matthews, is experiencing a new leadership role in the NHL after succeeding Steven Stamkos as captain of the Tampa Bay Lightning this season. He recognized the importance of unity within the team right from the beginning of the tournament, emphasizing that every player must contribute to forming a strong team identity. Sweden’s roster adjustments continue as they recently secured Philadelphia’s Sam Ersson as a replacement for the injured Jacob Markstrom. Their general manager and coach are also considering additional replacements for forward and defense positions depending on further injuries.
Finland’s Ice Hockey Association confirmed that Heiskanen will be sidelined due to injury, a decision made in collaboration with the Dallas Stars management. The team hopes for Heiskanen’s quick recovery but acknowledges the loss of one of the sport’s elite defensemen will significantly impact their roster. Coach Antti Pennanen expressed disappointment over the news, highlighting Heiskanen’s vital role in both the national team and his NHL club. Barkov echoed these sentiments, wishing his teammate a swift return to health and emphasizing his significant contributions to Finland’s success on the ice. A replacement for Heiskanen is expected to be announced before the team’s practice session in Montreal on February 10.
