BOSTON — Boston Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy is currently hospitalized due to a serious injury to his right shoulder, which has unfortunately resulted in an infection, according to the team’s Wednesday announcement. This news follows his recent withdrawal from the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament.

Team physician Peter Asnis provided details, explaining that McAvoy sustained an injury to his AC joint during a round-robin game against Finland last Thursday in Montreal, where he received treatment from the medical staff of Team USA.

After returning to Boston, McAvoy experienced increased pain, prompting further examinations that revealed the presence of an infection. Fortunately, doctors have begun treating the infection, leading to some improvement in McAvoy’s condition, as stated by Asnis.

The 27-year-old defenseman played a pivotal role for Team USA during the international competition, delivering significant hits against Canadian stars such as Connor McDavid and Sidney Crosby, which helped establish the competitive tone during the round-robin match against their North American counterparts.

The championship game against Canada is set to take place at TD Garden, the Bruins’ home arena.

U.S. coach Mike Sullivan, who is also McAvoy’s father-in-law, expressed his disappointment regarding McAvoy missing the championship game. “This tournament means a lot to him,” Sullivan remarked on Tuesday. “I’m disappointed for him because first and foremost, he’s a great kid and he’s a terrific hockey player, and I know this meant a lot to him.”

Sullivan also mentioned that reigning Norris Trophy winner Quinn Hughes could potentially step in as a replacement; however, Hughes remained in Vancouver with the Canucks as of Tuesday.