USA Ready for Showdown Against Canada in Championship Game

BOSTON — Team USA‘s forwards are set to return for the championship game of the 4 Nations Face-Off against Canada on Thursday at TD Garden, following a series of injury concerns. The puck drops at 8 p.m. ET, with broadcast coverage on ESPN, Disney+, and other networks.

Key players including Matthew Tkachuk and Auston Matthews, who were sidelined during Monday’s loss to Sweden, are expected to be back in the lineup. The U.S. team, led by head coach Mike Sullivan, aims to capitalize on their complete roster against Canada after winning their previous match against the Canadians last Saturday, 3-1.

“Brady and Matthew, first and foremost, are really good hockey players,” Sullivan said. “They’ve been a big part of our success in this tournament. Their presence gives our team confidence.”

Matthew Tkachuk described feeling better and expressed eagerness to compete in the final, stating, “There’s no way I was missing this game. I’ll be ready to go.” Despite some earlier discomfort due to an upper-body injury, Matthews reported substantial improvement ahead of the championship.

Brady Tkachuk encountered injury during the game against Sweden, where he crashed into the goalie, resulting in a trip to the dressing room. Sullivan indicated that Brady’s absence against Sweden was precautionary, reinforcing confidence in his readiness for the final.

“I’m very confident he’ll be at his absolute best,” Matthew Tkachuk asserted. Both brothers have played a pivotal role in the tournament, where they showcased their competitiveness in an earlier encounter against Canada, involving multiple fights in rapid succession.

Defenseman Charlie McAvoy remains uncertain for Thursday’s match, as he has been dealing with a shoulder injury sustained earlier this month. He was released from Massachusetts General Hospital on Thursday after being treated for an infection related to the injury. Sullivan stated that McAvoy’s status would be a game-time decision.

Amid the injury concerns, U.S. players maintained positivity about their collective readiness. “I mean, I’m not a doctor. But I’m sure a lot of those guys will be playing on Thursday,” said Jack Eichel, who led the team in ice time during the recent game. “We want this game. Guys are hungry and really excited.”

The U.S. team has expanded its roster flexibility under tournament rules, allowing for player replacements in case of injuries. Sullivan mentioned the possibility of utilizing additional players from outside the roster but anticipated most injured players would return.

As the U.S. seeks to claim the tournament title, enthusiasm is high for the showdown, with both teams promising to deliver an intense hockey match.