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MONTREAL — Connor McDavid is currently in his 10th season with the NHL, boasting over 750 games played, five scoring titles, and three Hart Trophies to his name. However, he is now experiencing something entirely new.
At the 4 Nations Face-Off, McDavid is donning the Canadian jersey for an international tournament featuring some of the top players globally, a chance he has long aspired to realize. Fresh from leading the Edmonton Oilers to a Game 7 in the Stanley Cup Finals, McDavid sees this event as a precursor to the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics and an opportunity to further solidify his status in a sport where he has emerged as a leading figure.
“It’s incredibly unfortunate for hockey fans and particularly for Connor that this is the first international event he’s participating in,” remarked Canada coach Jon Cooper. “I wouldn’t say this is just Connor’s debut on the international scene, but it does feel that way, especially with the Olympics coming up in a year. We’re looking forward to seeing more of him in that setting.”
The last notable “best on best” tournament took place in 2016 during the World Cup of Hockey, where McDavid played for Team North America instead of representing Canada. The 4 Nations tournament is particularly special for him, as he will share the ice with his idol Sidney Crosby in front of their national fans.
“I’ve wanted to participate in events like this for a long time, to represent Team Canada. Many players share this feeling,” McDavid expressed. “Almost everyone here is in the same boat; this experience is a first for most of us, but we are really looking forward to it.”
The anticipation grows even more when considering the upcoming Olympics, especially since McDavid, along with fellow Canadians Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar, U.S. captain Auston Matthews, and Sweden’s William Nylander, are among those who have faced unfortunate circumstances preventing them from the Olympic stage. The league did not send players to the 2018 Olympics and withdrew last minute from the 2022 Games.
Provided that no additional unexpected issues arise, it’s easy to imagine McDavid being a key component as Canada pursues its third consecutive Olympic gold medal with NHL players participating.
“Watching Connor in the NHL is pure excitement; he brings so much energy to the game,” remarked Canada general manager Don Sweeney. “Every player is eager to see him excel on this platform as he steps into a leadership role with Hockey Canada moving forward.”
Mattias Ekholm, a Swedish player currently on the same team as McDavid in Edmonton, acknowledged the energy and love McDavid brings to the game, whether as a teammate or opponent. “He embodies what it means to be a hockey player. His pride is evident whether he’s in an Edmonton jersey or a Canada jersey,” Ekholm stated.
Jon Cooper, coaching McDavid for the first time while he wears a Canada jersey, was left in awe of the exceptional level of skill he displayed during practices and scrimmages. “The pace of the game is unmatched, and yet McDavid consistently prompts reactions from the crowd with the incredible plays he executes at breakneck speed. To witness this kind of talent is truly special,” Cooper added.
Sweden’s Sam Hallam, who is coaching against McDavid for the first time, empathizes with the many coaches in the NHL trying to lessen his impact. “There are 32 teams in the NHL, with some of the smartest coaches available, yet they all find it challenging to contain him,” Hallam observed. “He still manages to rack up 130, 140, or even 150 points. That just showcases the remarkable player he is.”