Team USA Faces Tough Matchup Against Finland in 4 Nations Face-Off

MONTREAL, Canada — Team USA is set to take on Finland in their opening match of the 4 Nations Face-Off on Thursday at 8 p.m. ET at the Bell Centre. The tournament marks the first best-on-best competition featuring NHL players since the 2016 World Cup of Hockey. Team USA, led by Vezina Trophy favorite Connor Hellebuyck, seeks to build momentum as they aim for their first win at an NHL International Tournament since 2004.

The two teams have met six times in past tournaments, with the U.S. winning four encounters, while Finland claimed victory in their most recent matchup during the 2004 World Cup of Hockey. With both squads boasting a mix of star power and rising talent, the matchup is a highly anticipated contest.

Stats heading into Thursday’s game show Hellebuyck leading the NHL with a 34-7-2 record this season, along with a .925 save percentage and 2.06 goals-against average. Meanwhile, Finland’s Juuse Saros has struggled, with an 11-23-6 record and an .899 save percentage; however, he remains a formidable opponent. “I think the pressure is on Hellebuyck to perform, but Saros has the potential to surprise,” said ESPN analyst Victoria Matiash.

This tournament also features several key matchups, including teammates turned rivals, as NHL stars such as Auston Matthews and Jack Eichel compete against Finnish players like Esa Lindell and Niko Mikkola. The chemistry between players from each country will be crucial in determining the game’s outcome.

The betting lines reflect Team USA’s strong position, with a moneyline of -360 against Finland’s +280. The game spread sits at USA -1.5 (-125) while total goals are set at over 5.5 (-120). “Expect a fast-paced game right from the start; we know the stakes,” said Team USA captain Auston Matthews.

As the tournament progresses, each team will look to establish their rhythm and capitalize on every opportunity. “We’ve been preparing hard for this tournament, and now it’s time to show what we’ve got on the ice,” Hellebuyck said during practice on Wednesday. Both teams are eager to build on the momentum from this critical opening game.