Devon Toews Set to Make Canadian Debut in First International Game in Years

MONTREAL, Canada – Devon Toews is poised to take the ice for his first international game, representing Canada in the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off against Sweden on Wednesday night. This match marks the first best-on-best competition involving NHL players in nearly ten years.

At 31, Toews’s selection for the national team comes later in his career than most, making this moment particularly significant. Despite the weight of the occasion, Toews remains focused on adjustment and teamwork. “Not a lot on my mind,” Toews stated during an interview on Tuesday. “I’m trying to get used to it and be comfortable with the guys and the system. It’s a lot of new information. I’m just trying to take as much of it in and then just go play.”

Reflecting on the potential to represent Canada, Toews expressed a modest outlook. “If I was picked to help my country, then so be it. If not, I’m fine with that, too,” he said. When pressed on whether he felt any nerves about the upcoming game, he replied, “I don’t really get nervous playing hockey. I’ve been doing that since I was 3. I get more nervous coming up here and having to talk to the media.”

Toews’s delay in competing internationally stems from his continuous participation in the Stanley Cup Playoffs since joining the NHL, combined with a lack of selection for youth tournaments. Despite being regarded as one of the NHL’s smartest players, Toews’s omission from past international competitions is now addressed with this opportunity.

Other players on Canada’s roster have previous international experience, which highlights the uniqueness of Toews’s situation. “I think it means a lot to him,” shared a teammate. “It’s not something that will be intimidating for him at all. He’s a very composed guy, on and off the ice. I’m sure he’s looking forward to it.”

Teammate Brock Nelson corroborated the sentiments about Toews, noting, “It’s well-deserved. I think he’s an unbelievable player. He’s won and been a big part of the success in Colorado.” Toews is lauded for his work ethic and teamwork, with Nelson emphasizing his ability to connect with teammates off the ice. “He still checks in on guys and cares about you as a person,” Nelson remarked.

In Colorado, Toews is recognized as a pivotal two-way defenseman. His previous experience with partners like Cale Makar has resulted in a strong defense strategy for the Avalanche. As they embark on this journey with Team Canada, Toews aims to carry that synergy onto the international stage.

Cale Makar expressed excitement for Toews’s selection, complementing the partnership that has proven successful in the NHL, stating, “To be paired with him right now is pretty special.” The chemistry cultivated between the two may serve as a pivotal advantage for Canada during this tournament.

Both players, reflecting on their shared aspirations, understand the importance of this opportunity. Makar noted the unique nature of the upcoming tournament, mentioning it as part of a shared childhood dream for both athletes from Canada. “It shows you how special they are,” teammate Nathan MacKinnon stated, proud of Toews’s achievement.

The stage is set at the Bell Centre, with anticipation for the match intensifying as the hours draw closer. With fanfare surrounding the event, Toews’s debut for the Canadian team encapsulates a dream realized, set against the backdrop of Canada’s illustrious hockey tradition.