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Avalanche Team Notes
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MHH Roundtable: Who are these guys?
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...ndtable-who-are-these-guys-colorado-avalanche
Photo by Jonathan Kozub/NHLI via Getty Images
It will be a furious finish to the season.
As the Colorado Avalanche enter the Four Nations extended break, here are our thoughts where the team stands as they enter the stretch run and the impending trade deadline.
Now that the dust has settled on the Mikko Rantanen trade, any final thoughts?
Evan: I still don’t love the trade even weeks later. Losing a key forward factor has hurt the Avalanche. I still believe Rantanen and the team could’ve come to an agreement, especially now knowing what the cap will be in the years to come. The Avs will still have to deal with this when it’s time to re-sign Martin Necas, which is an absolute must now. With that being said, Necas has looked good so far in Colorado. It helps to play alongside Nathan MacKinnon on the top line, and he certainly could and should have more goals and points than he has. But I’m still unsure of the fit, especially with how excellent Rantanen is even on his “off nights.”
Adrian: It might be too early to tell and not necessarily the real proving grounds so far, in my opinion. I was openly critical of the return regarding the Mikko deal and not garnering a first rounder. Since arriving in Colorado, Martin Necas and his performances have opened my mind quite a bit. If Marty Necas can produce the rest of the regular season and into the playoffs the way he has so far, that trade will quickly look lopsided in favor of the Avalanche just based on having an equally effective player as Mikko that you’ll be able to sign at a significantly lower AAV. If Marty Necas continues to go off, all that makes sense, but for me, the real proving ground comes in the playoffs.
Jackie: The real crux of the Nečas-Rantanen trade isn’t going to be comparing game-by-game production of these two prolific players but rather the long-term financial implication of the move. The impact of the rising cap and cap percentage comparables moving forward is going to heavily factor in. It’s easy to ignore inflation at this juncture but when contracts get signed this summer it might be an eye opener, especially if an internal cap still remains. Nečas has enjoyed a good start to his Avalanche tenure but he, too, will need a big extension likely this summer or the UFA dance starts all over again. Any production Nečas contributes now will have to get paid for in short order.
Jess: The trade still doesn’t feel real to me, and it likely won’t feel real for a good while. As great as Martin Necas has looked so far for the Avs, I don’t know that he’ll ever fully replace Mikko. That being said, as everyone has touched on a bit, he’s been a great fit for this team so far, and I was pleasantly surprised by how great of a match between this player and team has turned out to be, at least initially. If he continues to tear it up like he’s been doing, locking him down as early as you can this summer becomes priority number one.
Ezra: I’m gonna miss Rantanen, buuut... I love Martin Necas, and I like Jack Drury. Ultimately for me this trade gets graded on how they use the extra picks and space to fill out the roster both this year and next - specifically, this year can they upgrade the second defense pair? If that answer is yes, I’m sold on the move - a deeper blueline will give the Avalanche the best chance to go on a deeper playoff run.
Have expectations for this team changed?
Evan: I don’t think the expectation for the team has changed. Internally, I’m sure they believe they can make a run and go all the way - as they should, why would it be any different? From the outside looking in, the expectations have likely shifted with the new personnel, and confidence may not be as high as it was before. Of course, a lot has to go right when it comes to health and availability - particularly around Valeri Nichushkin and the always-looming question mark of Gabriel Landeskog.
Adrian: Back to my initial reactions to the trade and how those have changed. At first, I felt like the Mikko deal was admitting defeat on the season. Now I can see the potential for Necas to go off, and I absolutely love how his arrival has stimulated the powerplay. It’s an entertaining and fluid powerplay that gets me to the edge of my seat again. Combine that with some next-level net minding, and that Avalanche is still a contender as far as I’m concerned. Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar are still here.
Jackie: How the trade deadline goes will ultimately show Chris MacFarland’s hand. There shouldn’t be desperation but given the moves over the last 12 months it sort of feels that way. Expectations should be managed regardless, this team has a lot to prove.
Jess: Given the fact that my initial expectations for this team were just to survive the first half of the season, given all the uncertainties, I’d say they lived up to those expectations so far. I still think this team can be competitive come playoff time, but as Jackie kind of touched on, just how competitive I think they can be will be determined by what other moves the front office has in store at the trade deadline and how much they’re able to bolster their current team.
Ezra: Not for me! You have Nate and Cale - win the cup.
What is your interest level in the Four Nations tournament?
Jackie: I’m very glad there will finally be best-on-best hockey after nearly a decade but to be honest the teams in this tournament don’t excite me very much. I’m hoping for some great competitive games and of course no major injuries. I’m undecided on how much I’ll watch but it is nice the NHL is trying something different.
Evan: I’m intrigued by it. It’s something different and unique and it’s cool to see the league and players trying something new. I’ll admit I’ll be busy with my other jobs and won’t be able to catch many of the games which is unfortunate, but it’s just important to me that Colorado’s participants stay healthy.
Adrian: I think this is a great time for a tournament that pits the world's best against each other. I like even more that Team USA is the favorite heading in, and for better or for worse, things are a bit spicy on the world stage between the US and Canada. This isn’t your queue to get political, but that tension might spill onto the ice, as we’ve seen in past international contests that occur in the same time frame as contentious worldly affairs. Hockey is a healthy outlet.
Jess: I’m really excited to watch best-on-best hockey, and I’m intrigued to see how this tournament goes. It’s a breath of fresh air this season compared to an All-Star weekend event that I thought had kind of gone a bit stale in the past couple of seasons. That all being said, I am tempering my expectations at the same time, just because I’m sure that it won’t be a perfect event by any means, because this is the first time they’re putting on this event. I hope it goes well, though, and as I said, I’m excited and intrigued to see this event in place of the All-Star weekend.
Ezra: I don’t care at all. I will probably watch the final..? Frankly, I don’t have a lot of bandwidth for sports outside of the Avs.
How would you approach the upcoming trade deadline?
Evan: The trade deadline is always something fun to look forward to as a hockey fan, but for Avs fans this year, it might just feel like a complex jumble of a mess. It’s safe to say the Avalanche are not done making moves, but what they can do with what they have is the bigger question. If they’re looking to improve the roster, who knows how much they can get with rumored trade pieces such as Miles Wood and Casey Mittelstadt? On top of that, if they’re looking to make a big splash, there isn’t much cap space nor assets such as draft picks they can utilize to make moves. Chris MacFarland has already made some massive moves this season, with some saying they’re knee-jerk reactions. Will there be any more knee-jerk reactions to come, or subtle moves to quietly improve the team is the real question in early March.
Jackie: I’m a firm no rentals on a good day but should a team which has already dressed 43 different players this season really be in the market for more temporary help? If they can find a better long term fit than Mittelstadt then that would be an ideal move. The issue of needing an additional top four defenseman still remains but that’s a tricky hole to fill. It will cost too much in dollars and assets for a permanent fix and half the league wants an extra defenseman at the deadline. Still, the best course of action is to navigate away from instant gratification and to find players that can address needs for longer than two months.
Adrian: I’m with Jackie on this and hope the Avalanche refrains from getting too wild at the deadline. At this time, I think we see a relatively reserved approach that possibly adds another trustworthy bottom-six forward with PK prowess and a 5-7D man for depth purposes.
Jess: As Jackie and Adrian touched on, I’m perfectly happy with Colorado not going crazy at the deadline by any means, especially after going a bit crazy already and dealing Mikko. If they find a trustworthy depth defenseman and a depth forward of some kind, I’ll be a perfectly happy camper. While they might need to find a better fit than a player like Mittlestadt or another top-four defenseman like Jackie mentioned, it will probably be easier to make those moves in the summer rather than in March no doubt, simply because they’ll have more options, at least in theory.
Ezra: Sorry to say it, but everyone else is wrong! They have to upgrade on defense to go on a real run. I love Malinski, and Middleton is a good guy and a fun story, but that can’t be your third pair when you’re fully healthy. Malinski looked better up on the second pair with Girard the last couple games, but even if you buy that as an option then you’re running Manson with de Haan, Middleton, or Kylington and none of those four handle the puck well consistently — the answer has to come from someone else’s roster. Might want a depth center around too, and I don’t mind spending a few picks to bolster a roster that can win.
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...ndtable-who-are-these-guys-colorado-avalanche
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Preview: Canada and Sweden start the 4 Nations Face-Off
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...anada-and-sweden-start-the-4-nations-face-off
Photo by Vitor Munhoz/4NFO/World Cup of Hockey via Getty Images
Colorado/Canada’s Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, and Devon Toews open the tournament against the Swedes!
The wait is finally over, as we will see a best-on-best and international tournament between four nations of supreme hockey pedigree. This unorthodox tournament will crown one country's team a true champion. Will it be Canada, the birthplace of hockey, or Sweden, the country that's offered some of the game's (and Avs') greatest players? Perhaps the newly minted favorite USA team steals the show, but don't you sleep on the feisty Finns! It all starts tonight with Canada and Sweden at Bell Centre in Montreal.
Team Canada
This Canadian team should be a must-watch television with the likes of MacKinnon, Crosby, McDavid, Makar, etc. The roster continues to churn out proven and legit hockey prowess. It remains to be seen how Jon Cooper will deploy this talent, but with this much skill on a roster, you almost can't screw it up.
We cover the Avalanche around here, so it won't be hard to root for the Maple Leaf tonight, and I'd expect Cale Makar and Devon Toews to remain D partners and be featured as Team Canada's top pair. It makes sense to lean on that familiarity, even if you could argue there's a better Dman than Toewser. I'd also expect (at a minimum) Crosby, MacKinnon, and McDavid to be a part of Team Canada's PP1.
The only reason Team Canada isn't the favorite in the 4 Nations Face-Off is a lack of confidence between the pipes. For now, it's Jordan Binnington protecting the net for the team in red. He won't be getting a ton of slack in our neck of the woods, but he's a Stanley Cup-winning goalie with plenty of ability.
By the way, I doubt anyone outside of those who live to be outraged are upset about Cale Makar getting #8 over Drew Doughty. Team Canada made Makar's #8 jerseys to be produced and sold before Doughty was announced as part of the team.
Projected Lineup:
Sam Reinhart — Connor McDavid — Mitch Marner
Sidney Crosby — Nathan MacKinnon — Mark Stone
Brad Marchand — Brayden Point — Seth Jarvis
Brandon Hagel — Anthony Cirelli — Travis Konecny
Devon Toews — Cale Makar
Josh Morrissey — Colton Parayko
Shea Theodore — Drew Doughty
Team Sweden
All four countries have a real chance of winning this tournament, and Sweden is no different. Filip Forsberg, Elias Pettersson, and Adrian Kempe should form the first forward group. Still, I'm keying on the second line, particularly on Willy Nylander, who, believe it or not, has scored just 16 fewer goals (113) than his fellow Toronto superstar Auston Matthews (129) over the last three NHL seasons. We also can't sleep on this defensive group with future HOFer Victor Hedman at the helm alongside Jonas Brodin.
Slight concern arises in the net for the Swedes, as they will be without Jacub Markstrom due to a knee injury. That leaves Filip Gustavsson, Linus Ullmark, and Samuel Ersson to choose from. It does appear that it will be Gustavsson's net at least to start things tonight.
Projected Lineup:
Filip Forsberg — Elias Pettersson — Adrian Kempe
Rickard Rakell — Mika Zibanejad — William Nylander
Jesper Bratt — Joel Eriksson Ek — Lucas Raymond
Viktor Arvidsson — Elias Lindholm — Gustav Nyquist
Victor Hedman — Jonas Brodin
Mattias Ekholm — Erik Karlsson
Gustav Forsling — Rasmus Dahlin
Note: Team Sweden will also miss the services of Gabe Landeskog, a staple of his nation's team, before the injury that has kept him from competing since game 6 of the 2022 Stanley Cup Final.
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...anada-and-sweden-start-the-4-nations-face-off
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Eagles Takeaways: Innala’s first AHL hat trick clinches series sweep against San Jose
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...series-sweep-against-san-jose-wednesday-night
Colorado Eagles
Jere Innala had his fist career AHL hat trick while Jacob MacDonald and Oskar Olausson also added tallies.
Loveland, CO — As the top stars for the Colorado Avalanche take on the Swedes in Montreal, the Colorado Eagles look for a series sweep in Loveland. Jacob MacDonald lit the lamp three times last night in the 6–3 victory over the San Jose Barracuda (SJS). He now leads the league among all defensemen in goals scored with 21 on the season. At the end of the night, the Eagles sit in a prominent position in the Pacific Division. They are in second place with a four point lead on third and trail the Calgary Wranglers (CGY) by one point in first. Here are the takeaways from the 5–2 victory over the Barracuda.
Takeaways
Colorado looked great on the all-veteran power play tonight, scoring their first two goals of the night on the man advantage. Jere Innala helped lead a charge into the zone with some gorgeous passing between Jake Wise and T.J. Tynan. It was Innala’s eighth of the season and with very little effort. Later in the first period, Tynan and Wise helped MacDonald for his 21st of the year (11th power play goal). Innala later would score again on the power play to top off the hat trick in the second period.
The Eagles were applying a lot of pressure by using the stretch pass throughout the game. It may have been that the Barracuda defenders were going too far up in the zone, but the Eagles’ defensemen were hitting the forwards on the run. There were several instances that the Eagles were receiving the pass right on the blue line, keeping San Jose on their toes the entire game.
Trent Miner was in a unique situation tonight. With him being the third string goalie for the Avalanche, he is getting fewer starts than he did last year. He started for the Avalanche on January 8th, then the Avalanche reassigned him to the Eagles on the 12th. Between the 15th and 29th, he played three games before the Avalanche recalled him again last week. Miner saved 25 of 27 shots on goal tonight and did not look uncomfortable doing it. This “break” did not bother Miner at all, and he slotted right back into the flow for the win.
Upcoming
The Eagles will head back out on the road and up north to take on the Abbotsford Canucks (VAN) on Saturday, February 15th, at the Abbotsford Centre at 8 p.m. MT.
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...series-sweep-against-san-jose-wednesday-night
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Preview: Finland and USA face off for the second game of the Four Nations Tournament
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...he-second-game-of-the-four-nations-tournament
Photo by Andre Ringuette/4NFO/World Cup of Hockey via Getty Images
On the heels of an electric OT game between Canada and Sweden, Finland and the USA play their first game tonight.
After an absolutely thrilling game between Canada and Sweden last night to open the Four Nations, Finland and the USA will take on each other tonight in the second game of this tournament of best-on-best hockey. We should be in for another exciting night of hockey!
Team Finland
It’s probably not exactly a secret at this point that Finland is kind of seen as the underdogs in this matchup by some, simply because of the firepower that they’re going up against tonight when they take on the USA.
That being said, there’s certainly no shortage of talent on this roster, with one of arguably the best defensive forwards in the league, Aleksander Barkov, leading the charge. Artturi Lehkonen will play tonight, too, of course, and hopefully, his ability to consistently score clutch goals can help Finland here tonight.
Projected Lineup
Artturi Lehkonen - Aleksander Barkov - Mikko Rantanen
Roope Hintz - Sebastian Aho - Patrik Laine
Eetu Luostarinen - Anton Lundell - Mikael Granlund
Teuvo Teravainen - Erik Haula - Joel Armia
Niko Mikkola - Esa Lindell
Urho Vaakanainen - Nikolas Matinpalo
Olli Maatta - Henri Jokiharju
Team USA
As previously mentioned, this USA roster has no shortage of firepower on it. Similarly to team Canada, this is not a team that you want to get into a track meet with whatsoever, as you’ll likely lose that track meet with players like Auston Matthews on their roster who can score from virtually anywhere on the ice.
Their goaltending lineup is no small test either, and with the likes of Connor Hellebuyck as a part of this tandem, getting to the front of the net and scoring from there will likely be a requirement for Finland to be successful against this USA team here tonight.
Projected Lineup
Kyle Connor - Jack Eichel - Matthew Tkachuk
Jake Guentzel - Auston Matthews - Jack Hughes
Brady Tkachuk - J.T. Miller - Matt Boldy
Brock Nelson - Vincent Trocheck - Dylan Larkin
Zach Werenski - Charlie McAvoy
Jaccob Slavin - Adam Fox
Noah Hanifin - Brock Faber
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...he-second-game-of-the-four-nations-tournament
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Morning Flurries: MacKinnon makes strong impression in Montreal
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...-flurries-mackinnon-starts-strong-in-montreal
Photo by Andrea Cardin/4NFO/World Cup of Hockey via Getty Images
Your daily dose of Colorado Avalanche news and links.
It was a hot start in Montreal for the Colorado Avalanche superstar Nathan MacKinnon scoring Canada’s first goal of the tournament. Perhaps he received some extra motivation as he got a special message from his sister ahead of puck drop on the Four Nations festivities.
Cue the water works.
Nathan MacKinnon got a special message from his sister, Sarah, leading up his #4Nations Face-Off debut.
: Canada vs. Sweden TONIGHT at 8p ET on @NHL_On_TNT, @SportsonMax, @Sportsnet, and @TVASports pic.twitter.com/QB6JaT17BG
— NHL (@NHL) February 12, 2025
Speaking of MacKinnon, enjoy a nice 10 minute video of the Odd Couple, Nate and Sid, talking with Sportsnet on their friendship, first impressions and playing together.
Those not going to the Four Nations got in some quality time during their extended break such as new Avalanche forward Martin Necas reuniting with his partner and their dog before embarking on a trip to the tropics.
Elsewhere, details emerged of a deal new Carolina Hurricanes forward Mikko Rantanen made with fellow Hurricanes teammate Jack Roslovic to procure his trusty #96, which involved acquiring a particular Rolex watch.
We have you covered with previews and recaps of all things Four Nations.
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...-flurries-mackinnon-starts-strong-in-montreal
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Matthew and Brady Tkachuk wreak havoc on Finland to give USA big win
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...ck-wreak-havoc-on-finland-to-give-usa-big-win
David Kirouac-Imagn Images
The Americans down the Finns 6-1 thanks to two goals apiece from the Tkachuk brothers.
After the success of the first game there was a lot of hope for the second match of the tournament between USA and Finland. Coming into this game expectations were at an all time high for the Americans and an all time low for the Finns, and this game displayed why.
Recap
In contrast to the lightning fast start of the Canada-Sweden game the matchup between the US and Finland had the speed of a broken down Mercury from the jump. That may be a bit harsh. Each team had a few chances but when there’s a goal less than a minute into one game everything else seems stagnant in comparison.
USA’s goaltending was hailed as their big leg up in this tournament but it let them down early. Finland weathered some pressure by the Americans and went on the attack with a three-on-two. The Finns are a team with some star power so it was a shock when Henri Jokiharju was the one to flub a puck past the reigning Vézina trophy winner.
HENRI JOKIHARJU
Finland has the first goal of the game! #4Nations
: @espn & @ESPNPlushttps://t.co/S5tPrXCygm
: @Sportsnet or stream on Sportsnet+
— NHL (@NHL) February 14, 2025
With a 1-0 lead Finland had some confidence built. They vertically were able to get into the game quicker than their Scandinavian counterparts the night before. But you can only keep star (and stripe) power down for so long. Despite all the skill the US possesses it was a pretty grimy goal from the youngest Tkachuk brother, Brady, who inched a puck over the goal line on his third attempt on Juuse Saros.
All in all the first was about as even a period as you can get and they entered the middle period knotted at one.
The talk in the Finnish locker room seemed to be encouraging that their group found a way to stay even with the US after one. They came out strong and worked their cycle for the first half of the second period. Chances were scarce for Finland and they had no goals to show for it. The most egregious being a breakaway from Erik Haula where he failed to get the puck in any area remotely near the net. When you are playing a superior team missed chances like that will cost you.
It didn’t take long after the halfway mark of the game for USA to regain their momentum and take it to the Finns. They went to work and the Minnesota Wild duo of Brock Faber and Matt Boldy connected on a picture perfect tip goal. It was another dirty goal for the boys in red, white, and blue and a much needed one to give them the lead before the third.
PLAY FREE BIRD
The USA take the lead! #4Nations
: @espn & @ESPNPlus
: @Sportsnet or stream on Sportsnet+
— NHL (@NHL) February 14, 2025
That goal lit the fuse for the Americans and the fireworks began less than thirty seconds into the third period. First it was Matthew Tkachuk on a weak spin-o-rama wrister from the point that snuck past the glove of Juuse Saros, one he’ll likely want back. Then, just eleven seconds later, Auston Matthews snuck a pass over to Jake Guentzel. The two-time forty goal scorer made no mistake, taking the puck in stride along the wing and whipping it past Saros’ blocker on the short side.
TWO GOALS IN 11 SECONDS
The USA with a hot start to the third period! #4Nations
: @espn & @ESPNPlus
: @Sportsnet or stream on Sportsnet+
— NHL (@NHL) February 14, 2025
Finland tried to find their legs and make a comeback effort but the American’s speed is just too much for the injury depleted Finnish defense core. Brady Tkachuk sped by Finland’s backline and received a slick feed from Jack Eichel. Tkachuck slid the puck to his backhand and tucked it past Saros for his second of the game, his brother Matthew picking up the secondary assist.
A TKACHUK GOAL ️
Brady and Matthew Tkachuk appear on the scoresheet for the same goal as the USA makes it 5-1! #4Nations
: @espn & @ESPNPlus
: @Sportsnet or stream on Sportsnet+
— NHL (@NHL) February 14, 2025
At this point the game was effectively over. The offensively challenged Finns had their doors blown out so early in the third it was hard for them to even attempt to make the four goal comeback.
The game made a massive halt as it appeared as though both teams were content to play this one out, but a power play in the latter half of the period gave them an opportunity to add insult to injury. There’s no one better for that job than a Tkachuck and he did just that when he buried the rebound on his own tip to make the rest of this game superfluous.
Takeaways
USA:
It never seemed like the Americans played poorly. It was a close game to start but they hit several crossbars and still controlled play for the most part. There were instances where they got lulled into Finland’s cycle game and were on the back foot but even then they bended but didn’t break. The big surprise from this one was how little the skill did for the Americans, it wasn’t nearly as flashy of a game as it was for the Canadians. USA’s success came from going to work and getting dirty with four of their six goals coming on tips and rebounds. Finland also has a lot of skill and USA gave them virtually nothing. If there’s one flaw in the American’s game it’s that they got too passive at times and didn’t shoot as much as they should, but then that got figured out too.
Finland:
It’s a rough go for the Finns. They lost all of their true top four defensmen to injury before the tournament began leaving them with a pretty ghastly core on their blue line. It’s solid in terms of true defensive ability as they were able to really hold their own but the puck moving was the issue. The forward core had to do all the heavy lifting in the US zone and on the breakout. That’s not an effective way to win a hockey game. That being said the team’s only goal came from a defensemen. Finland possesses a quality forward core, they just weren’t able to do much. Top end guys Aleksander Barkov and Mikko Rantanen were virtually invisible with the puck and that’s going to lose them every game if it continues. The team has to do the best they can to insulate their depleted blue line. They’re also going to need better from Juuse Saros who let in quite a few softies to put this game out of reach for the Finns.
All four teams have the day off on Valentine’s Day but then thing’s get hot and heavy with the two inter-continental rivalry matchups back-to-back on Saturday. Mile High Hockey will have you covered again.
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...ck-wreak-havoc-on-finland-to-give-usa-big-win
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Open Thread: Team USA vs. Team Canada (6:00 p.m.)
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...-open-thread-team-usa-vs-team-canada-6-00-p-m
Photo by Andre RInguette/4NFO/World Cup of Hockey via Getty Images
A classic battle for the ages with three Avalanche participants for Team Canada.
The United States, Canada, Finland, and Sweden will all play today at the Bell Centre in Montreal in the third game day of the Four Nations Face-Off. This means all four Colorado Avalanche participants will play today in an event-filled day.
All teams are still in the running for a spot in the championship game Thursday at the TD Garden in Boston. But depending on results today, we’ll likely get a clearer idea of who will go for it all with the country on their back.
Team USA Projected Lines
Brady Tkachuk (7) - Jack Eichel (9) - Matthew Tkachuk (19)
Jake Guentzel (59) - Auston Matthews (34) - Jack Hughes (86)
Matt Boldy (12) - J.T. Miller (10) - Dylan Larkin (21)
Kyle Connor (81) - Vincent Trocheck (16) - Brock Nelson (29)
Zach Werenski (8) - Charlie McAvoy (25)
Jaccob Slavin (74) - Brock Faber (14)
Noah Hanifin (15) - Adam Fox (23)
Connor Hellebuyck (37)
Jake Oettinger (30)
Team Canada Projected Lines
Sam Reinhart (13) - Connor McDavid (97) - Mitch Marner (16)
Sidney Crosby (87) - Nathan MacKinnon (29) - Mark Stone (61)
Brandon Hagel (38) - Anthony Cirelli (71) - Brayden Point (21)
Brad Marchand (63) - Sam Bennett (9) - Seth Jarvis (24)
Devon Toews (5) - Cale Makar (8)
Josh Morrissey (44) - Colton Parayko (55)
Travis Sanheim (6) - Drew Doughty (89)
Jordan Binnington (50
Adin Hill (33)
NOTE: Cale Makar missed practice yesterday after feeling ill. He is currently listed as a game-time decision. Without Shea Theodore for the rest of the tournament due to injury, should Makar be unable to play, Canada would have a huge loss on the blue line. Thomas Harley recently called up from the Dallas Stars would slot in his place.
Follow along with the game in the comments section below!
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...-open-thread-team-usa-vs-team-canada-6-00-p-m
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Recap: Big wins for Finland, USA on Day Three of Four Nations
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...-for-finland-usa-on-day-three-of-four-nations
Photo by Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images
The Americans advance to the championship game.
First up in day three of the Four Nations tournament was the rivalry match from Europe with Sweden and Finland playing the early meeting so their fans back home could watch and neither team wanted to go down 0-2 in this short tournament.
Sweden took the early lead from Mika Zibanejad in period one but Finland stormed back to tie with a Florida Panthers special finished off by Anton Lundell. In the dying seconds of the first period a moose appeared from the right circle on a power play one timer, yes Mikko Rantanen still has the ability to score.
Sweden took control and the lead back in the second period with a couple defensemen contributing goals in Rasmus Dahlin and Erik Karlsson. But the Finns found the equalizer before the end of the period on a play started by Rantanen and finished by Aleksander Barkov at the net front. The game was tied 3-3 heading into the final frame.
There was no scoring in that third period despite both teams getting good looks. With a crucial standings point secured by both teams they went to overtime. It didn’t take long for Finland to turn a rush the other direction and Mikael Granlund found the dagger and gave Finland the 4-3 victory.
For the nightcap Canada and USA faced-off after each having won their opening match. The winner would have the upper hand on making the championship final game. The fireworks as promised showed up right at puck drop when three separate fights occurred. But each team got on the scoresheet through a goal as well. Connor McDavid opened the scoring for Canada but Jake Guentzel found the equalizer for the US to leave the score tied 1-1 after the first period of play.
Things quieted down as both teams settled into the game. Shots were even at ten apiece in the second period but USA was the side that found the back of the net. Dylan Larkin took a feed from Matt Boldy on a bad line change from Canada to put the Americans ahead and it stayed 2-1 at the second intermission.
The third period was very sleepy with a combined 13 shots on goal. Canada couldn’t generate much before pulling the goaltender. The lone goal of the period was when Guentzel scored another goal into the empty net to secure the victory. It was too little too late for Canada and team USA takes the game 3-1 with an automatic bid into the championship final on Thursday.
Takeaways
It bears watching but it appears Colorado Avalanche forward Artturi Lehkonen was benched for the second half of the game for Finland. He only received one shift in the third period and a total of only 11 minutes time on ice. It’s hard to believe any coach isn’t enamored with the way he plays but Lehkonen was on the ice for two of Sweden’s goals including the go-ahead in the second period.
Cale Makar was a surprise scratch in the evening despite taking the morning skate. The team is calling it an illness issue after they quickly summoned Thomas Harley to Montreal in anticipation of needing an extra defenseman. With a day off to rest it remains to be seen if Makar can suit up for Canada’s final round-robin game against Finland on Monday afternoon.
Upcoming
A day of rest and a trip to Boston for all teams and then a Monday matinee at 11 a.m. MT for Canada-Finland with USA-Sweden kicking off at 6 p.m. MT.
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...-for-finland-usa-on-day-three-of-four-nations
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Open Thread: Team Finland vs. Team Sweden (11:00 a.m.)
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...-thread-team-finland-vs-team-sweden-11-00-a-m
Photo by Andre Ringuette/4NFO/World Cup of Hockey via Getty Images
Artturi Lehkonen and Finland go first against Sweden.
The United States, Canada, Finland, and Sweden will all play today at the Bell Centre in Montreal in the third game day of the Four Nations Face-Off. This means all four Colorado Avalanche participants will play today in an event-filled day.
All teams are still in the running for a spot in the championship game Thursday at the TD Garden in Boston. But depending on results today, we’ll likely get a clearer idea of who will go for it all with the country on their back.
Team Finland Projected Lines
Artturi Lehkonen (62) - Aleksander Barkov (16) - Mikko Rantanen (96)
Roope Hintz (24) - Sebastian Aho (20) - Mikael Granlund (64)
Eetu Luostarinen (27) - Anton Lundell (15) - Patrik Laine (92)
Tuevo Teravainen (86) - Erik Haula (56) - Kaapo Kakko (84)
Niko Mikkola (77) - Esa Lindell (23)
Olli Maata (3) - Henri Jokiharju (10)
Urho Vaakanainen (18) - Nikolas Matinpalo (33)
Juuse Saros (74)
Kevin Lankinen (32)
Team Sweden Projected Lines
Rickard Rakell (67) - Mika Zibanejad (93) - William Nylander (88)
Filip Forsberg (9) - Elias Pettersson (40) - Adrian Kempe (10)
Jesper Bratt (63) - Joel Eriksson Ek (20) - Lucas Raymond (23)
Viktor Arvidsson (33) - Elias Lindholm (28) - Gustav Nyquist (12)
Victor Hedman (77) - Jonas Brodin (25)
Mattias Ekholm (14) - Erik Karlsson (65)
Gustav Forsling (42) - Rasmus Dahlin (26)
Filip Gustavsson (32)
Linus Ullmark (35)
Follow along with the game in the comments section below!
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...-thread-team-finland-vs-team-sweden-11-00-a-m
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Opinion: Canada’s revenge quest offers opportunity for MacKinnon and Makar
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...st-offers-opportunity-for-mackinnon-and-makar
Photo by Andre RInguette/4NFO/World Cup of Hockey via Getty Images
Someone will leave this tournament a legend. A moment built for Makar and MacKinnon.
For the last decade, the lore of international hockey has rightfully been about Sidney Crosby and his golden goal in 2010. Since then, not much has happened globally or in best-on-best hockey—that is, until now. That means someone will realize another monumental happening inside this Four Nations Face-Off, and my money is on either Cale Makar, Nathan MacKinnon, or both.
Nate the Great
I don't have to explain to you my inherent bias toward Nathan MacKinnon. My bias, however, doesn't eliminate me from having a qualified take here. Nathan MacKinnon is one of the best forwards in the world, if not the best. That's not according to just me, but his peers and media pundits that anointed him the NHL's MVP last season. He's also on the hunt for an MVP this season and leads the league in points and assists as he represents his beloved country alongside his childhood hero, Sid, who is not a kid anymore.
Is there ever a better scene for Nate Dawg to strut his stuff? This guy is called 'the dawg' here in the Rocky Mountains because rarely is a moment too big or light too bright for Nathan MacKinnon. He rises to the occasion and thrives in the limelight. It's a part of why he's a future HOFer. In the spirit of the Mile High Hockey Lab, I will make a bold prediction and say that MacKinnon scores the game-winner against Finland and a game-winner against Team USA in Boston this coming Thursday.
Cale Makorr
Like his fellow countryman, Cale Makar has dreamed about playing for Team Canada alongside his heroes and colleagues. Cale is the NHL's most valuable defender; any team would take number 8. He mentioned that missing the first installment of USA vs. Canada at this 4 Nations Face-Off was one of the most challenging decisions of his life. I bet.
Makar, like his Avalanche teammate Nate, possesses that big-game brilliance. Who can forget his first NHL action and subsequent playoff goal against his childhood team, the Calgary Flames? You don't win a Conn Smyth by shying away in the big moments, and Cale certainly doesn't. Cale Makar will tie things up via a power-play goal when Team Canada exacts their revenge on Team USA. He will also tee up MacKinnon's game-winner, which I previously predicted.
The Stage is Set
If this article reads like fan fiction, I'm sorry. Still, in Hilary Duff's words, this is what dreams are made of, and if past performance is our best indicator of future outcomes, this is Nate and Cale's ideal setting for a signature performance. Leaving a lasting imprint on this tournament will go far toward earning them season-long honors, but more importantly, doing so will cement these two generational talents in the legacy of the world's best game forever more.
ICYMI:
Here's our #4Nations episode!https://t.co/DtjbswNsCq pic.twitter.com/9GmRQPhOO1
— Mile High Hockey (@MileHighHockey) February 17, 2025
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...st-offers-opportunity-for-mackinnon-and-makar
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Open Thread: Team Finland vs. Team Canada (11 a.m.)
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025/2/17/24367305/open-thread-team-finland-vs-team-canada-11-a-m
Photo by Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images
A regulation winner advances to the final vs. USA.
Team Finland Projected Lines
Artturi Lehkonen (62) - Aleksander Barkov (16) - Mikko Rantanen (96)
Roope Hintz (24) - Sebastian Aho (20) - Mikael Granlund (64)
Eetu Luostarinen (27) - Anton Lundell (15) - Patrik Laine (92)
Tuevo Teravainen (86) - Erik Haula (56) - Kaapo Kakko (84)
Niko Mikkola (77) - Esa Lindell (23)
Olli Maata (3) - Henri Jokiharju (10)
Urho Vaakanainen (18) - Nikolas Matinpalo (33)
Juuse Saros (74)
Kevin Lankinen (32)
Team Canada Projected Lines
Sam Reinhart (13) - Connor McDavid (97) - Mitch Marner (16)
Sidney Crosby (87) - Nathan MacKinnon (29) - Mark Stone (61)
Brandon Hagel (38) - Anthony Cirelli (71) - Brayden Point (21)
Brad Marchand (63) - Sam Bennett (9) - Seth Jarvis (24)
Devon Toews (5) - Cale Makar (8) ?
Josh Morrissey (44) - Colton Parayko (55)
Travis Sanheim (6) - Drew Doughty (89)
Jordan Binnington (50
Adin Hill (33)
There’s question if Cale Makar is going to suit up or not, it’s interesting that the narrative may be shifting that his issue was entirely an illness. Either way, rest up Cale as the Colorado Avalanche need you.
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025/2/17/24367305/open-thread-team-finland-vs-team-canada-11-a-m
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The 4 Nations Face-Off sets the stage for the 2026 Winter Olympics
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...f-sets-the-stage-for-the-2026-winter-olympics
Photo by Andre Ringuette/4NFO/World Cup of Hockey via Getty Images
Hockey at the Winter Olympics in 2026 will be electric, and the 4 Nations Face-Off has proven that!
As this NHL season approached the pause set aside for the 4 Nations Face-Off, many fans were skeptical or not all that interested heading into the tournament. If you look at some of the comments on our 4 Nations previews, you'll see many instances of "I could give a ____ about this tournament" and "I don't care who wins, just please, nobody gets hurt." The second sentiment still rings true, but what about the first? This 4 Nations Face-Off has created a buzz around the next international proving ground—the 2026 Winter Olympics.
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The next chapter in Olympic history is just around the corner: From the slopes of the Dolomites to the streets of Milano, the Winter Olympic Games are coming back to Italy for #MilanoCortina2026.@milanocortina26 pic.twitter.com/TumWU66SLe
— The Olympic Games (@Olympics) February 6, 2025Milano Cortina 2026
By this time next year, the NHL won't shut it down for just four hockey nations to duke it out exhibition style. That's not to say these guys aren't worried about the outcome of the Four Nations, but the Olympics are just different. There have been plenty of winter games, but we've not gotten a best-on-best hockey setting since Sidney Crosby's golden goal in 2010.
Many who have criticized the Four Nations have said it's not a best-on-best tournament without the Russians, and I agree. The four countries are among the most formidable hockey nations, but not having Russia involved means leaving some of the NHL's best talent out of the competition.
I understand the Geopolitical reasoning behind their absence, but if we keep it about hockey, it's not best-on-best if Russia or the ROC isn't in the mix. It's unclear if Russians will be allowed to compete in hockey at the 2026 Winter Olympics, but if they are, they will be among the favorites to medal. With the IIHF not allowing Russia or Belarus in their competitions in 2025-26, it feels like Russia won't be represented in the 2026 Olympics either.
We can't sleep on Europe with Germany, Czechia, and Slovakia all getting their noses dirty and genuinely getting a grasp on competition in the world's hockey sphere. The Germans, although not typically uber-competitive, would ice some serious NHL talent with Leon Draisaitl, Tim Stützle, J.J. Peterka, Lukas Reichel, Philipp Grubauer, Moritz Seider, and Nico Sturm all being no-brainers for Team Germany.
Let's also remember Czechia, which has competed in international hockey for over 100 years and won a gold medal in the 1998 Winter Games. David Pasternak, Petr Mrazek, Ondrej Palat, Radko Gudas, and the newly acquired Martin Necas would likely represent CZE.
It's Showtime
The much-anticipated return of highly competitive and international hockey has finally happened, and the sport will be better for it. The rivalry that continues to steep between USA and Team Canada will only continue to fester no matter the outcome of Thursday's final, and that’s great for the sport. Fans of the Colorado Avalanche can tell you all about how rivalries fuel greatness.
If Canada settles the score and leaves tournament champions, it's fair to say that the Americans will look at the 2026 Olympics as the rubber match. If the US team emerges victorious in this 4 Nations Face-Off, all of Canada, including MacKinnon, Makar, and company, will pine to return to the international ice and restore balance to the hockey world. Their fire for retribution will burn with the rage of 1,000 suns. Either way, Thursday night will offer high-quality entertainment and legitimize the NHL's pause for international play. For that, we should all be grateful.
Let me know in the comments who you think will win the 4 Nations Face-Off and if you are excited about the Winter Olympics in 2026!
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...f-sets-the-stage-for-the-2026-winter-olympics
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Preview: For all the marbles in the Four Nations Face-Off
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...face-off-tournament-canada-usa-finland-sweden
Photo by Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images
Three teams all fight for a game against the US.
The Four Nations Face-Off has shifted back to the States in Boston. At TD Garden this President’s Day, three teams are still battling for a spot in the championship game Thursday night.
Team USA has already clinched its spot in the championship game with two regulation wins against Team Finland and Team Canada. Those two alongside Team Sweden, all even on two points, look to earn a chance for the right to represent their country on the biggest stage looking for some silverware.
Team Canada
Canada had high emotions in Saturday’s game against the US and looked to be in control after scoring first with Connor McDavid. But they would fall on home ice 3-1, and now have to climb out of a hole.
From a Colorado Avalanche perspective, the Canadians were without blue line specialist Cale Makar. But he has not been out due to injury; rather, he is just battling illness. Makar is once again a game-time decision for this afternoon’s game.
Aside from Makar, both Nathan MacKinnon and Devon Toews had quiet nights against the US. Can they step up their game to earn a rematch with Team USA in the championship game?
Projected Lines
Sidney Crosby (87) - Connor McDavid (97) - Mark Stone (61)
Sam Reinhart (13) - Nathan MacKinnon (29) - Mitch Marner (16)
Brad Marchand (63) - Sam Bennett (9) - Seth Jarvis (24)
Brandon Hagel (38) - Anthony Cirelli (71) - Brayden Point (21)
Devon Toews (5) - Cale Makar (8)
Josh Morrissey (44) - Colton Parayko (55)
Travis Sanheim (6) - Drew Doughty (89)
Jordan Binnington (50)
Adin Hill (33)
Note: Should Cale Makar be unable to go again, expect Thomas Harley to slot in once again.
Team Finland
Artturi Lehkonen and Team Finland saved their tournament with an overtime win over Team Sweden on Saturday afternoon. But Lehkonen didn’t make much of an impact, as he was benched for most of the third period and moved down to the fourth line.
Old friend Mikko Rantanen found the back of the net as he tried to find his old self. Outside of those two, Finland will need more help from its depth to earn an upset bid into the championship.
It’s anyone’s game, and a win all but secures them into the championship game. Can they pull off what would be a mighty upset over the perennial Team Canada?
Projected Lines
Kaapo Kakko (84) - Aleksander Barkov (16) - Mikko Rantanen (96)
Roope Hintz (24) - Sebastian Aho (20) - Mikael Granlund (64)
Eetu Luostarinen (27) - Anton Lundell (15) - Patrik Laine (92)
Artturi Lehkonen (62) - Erik Haula (56) - Joel Armia (40)
Niko Mikkola (77) - Esa Lindell (23)
Olli Maata (3) - Henri Jokiharju (10)
Urho Vaakanainen (18) - Nikolas Matinpalo (33)
Kevin Lankinen (32)
Juuse Saros (74)
Team USA
The US doesn’t have much riding on this game, as they’re already through to the championship game with two regulation wins over Finland and Canada. Moving back South of the border, they should feel more comfortable on home ice.
They’ll also look to stay healthy, as Matthew Tkachuk didn’t play most of the latter half of the game due to injury. Don’t be surprised if he cannot play tonight either to rest up for the bigger game on Thursday.
But depending on the results of the earlier game, the US could manipulate it in their favor to avoid Canada in the final, and end up facing Sweden instead. No matter how the matinee matchup goes, can the US sweep the round-robin with another win over Sweden?
Projected Lines
Jake Guentzel (59) - Auston Matthews (34) - Jack Hughes (86)
J.T. Miller (10) - Jack Eichel (9) - Brady Tkachuk (7)
Brock Nelson (29) - Dylan Larkin (21) - Matt Boldy (12)
Chris Kreider (20) - Vincent Trocheck (16) - Kyle Connor (81)
Jaccob Slavin (74) - Brock Faber (14)
Zach Werenski (8) - Charlie McAvoy (73)
Noah Hanifin (15) - Adam Fox (23)
Jake Oettinger (30)
Connor Hellebuyck (37)
Team Sweden
Sweden is the lone team in the tournament that hasn’t won a game yet but is still in the running for the chip. This is due to two overtime losses getting them even on two points with the rest of the teams still in the running.
The Swedes have been the disappointments of the tournament, not playing up to their potential and squandering chances to win games. But they need a win in regulation now more than ever, plus some help in the earlier game going beyond regulation.
They have the talent, they just have to put it all together. Can William Nylander and Mika Zibenejad find some sparks in Boston to help their case?
Projected Lines
William Nylander (88) - Mika Zibenejad (93) - Adrian Kempe (10)
Jesper Bratt (63) - Joel Eriksson Ek (20) - Lucas Raymond (23)
Rickard Rakell (67) - Elias Petersson (40) - Filip Forsberg (9)
Viktor Arvidsson (33) - Elias Lindholm (28) - Gustav Nyquist (12)
Victor Hedman (77) - Jonas Brodin (25)
Mattias Ekholm (14) - Erik Karlsson (65)
Gustav Forsling (42) - Rasmus Dahlin (26)
Linus Ullmark (35)
Filip Gustavsson (32)
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...face-off-tournament-canada-usa-finland-sweden
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Preview: Stupendous Saturday showdowns ahead in Four Nations Face-Off
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...ur-nations-face-off-canada-usa-finland-sweden
Photo by Andre Ringuette/4NFO/World Cup of Hockey via Getty Images
All four participants take on what should be a frantically fun day of hockey.
The United States, Canada, Finland, and Sweden will all play today at the Bell Centre in Montreal in the third game day of the Four Nations Face-Off. This means all four Colorado Avalanche participants will play today in an event-filled day.
All teams are still in the running for a spot in the championship game Thursday at the TD Garden in Boston. But depending on results today, we’ll likely get a clearer idea of who will go for it all with the country on their back.
Team Finland
Team Finland plays in the first game of the day, looking for something to go its way. They were in the heat of the game against the United States on Thursday, before a four-goal third period blew them away in the end.
From an Avalanche perspective, Artturi Lehkonen found life difficult alongside the rest of the Finns. Former Av Mikko Rantanen too was struggling, and the lone goal came from Henri Jokiharju.
But today, they have something to play for. Not only will they play to keep their hopes of making the championship game alive, but to one-up a big rival in Team Sweden. Will they do so this afternoon?
Projected Lines
Artturi Lehkonen (62) - Aleksander Barkov (16) - Mikko Rantanen (96)
Roope Hintz (24) - Sebastian Aho (20) - Mikael Granlund (64)
Eetu Luostarinen (27) - Anton Lundell (15) - Patrik Laine (92)
Tuevo Teravainen (86) - Erik Haula (56) - Kaapo Kakko (84)
Niko Mikkola (77) - Esa Lindell (23)
Olli Maata (3) - Henri Jokiharju (10)
Urho Vaakanainen (18) - Nikolas Matinpalo (33)
Juuse Saros (74)
Kevin Lankinen (32)
Team Sweden
Sweden fought brilliantly against Team Canada in the opener after falling behind early. But their fight ended with a Mitch Marner overtime goal to win it 4-3.
Luckily based on the tournament’s overtime rules, Sweden still got a point and only gave Canada two points for the overtime win. With a one-point advantage over Finland, it may be crucial down the line, but vice versa with Canada having the extra point over them.
Nonetheless, this is a game Team Sweden will surely want to win. Can Sweden make an impact over the “younger brother” in this heated rivalry?
Projected Lines
Rickard Rakell (67) - Mika Zibanejad (93) - William Nylander (88)
Filip Forsberg (9) - Elias Pettersson (40) - Adrian Kempe (10)
Jesper Bratt (63) - Joel Eriksson Ek (20) - Lucas Raymond (23)
Viktor Arvidsson (33) - Elias Lindholm (28) - Gustav Nyquist (12)
Victor Hedman (77) - Jonas Brodin (25)
Mattias Ekholm (14) - Erik Karlsson (65)
Gustav Forsling (42) - Rasmus Dahlin (26)
Filip Gustavsson (32)
Linus Ullmark (35)
Team USA
The big match-up of the evening involves two of the powerhouses in international hockey. Team USA, rolling with “Free Bird” in its back pocket, put six by Finland in an emphatic win. With the three-point regulation win, they currently lead in the standings.
MAKE THAT TWO FOR BRADY TKACHUK#4Nations pic.twitter.com/R3zdU2LBw0
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) February 14, 2025
Both Brady and Matthew Tkachuk wreaked havoc, scoring four goals combined between the two. While Connor Hellebuyck’s one goal given up last game was a shaky one similar to the ones he let in against the Avalanche in the playoffs last season, he will look to rebound this evening.
The US is the rival in foreign lands, conflicting both in and out of hockey. Tensions are sure to be high, making this game palpable for all. Can the red, white, and blue all but earn its place in the championship game with a win tonight?
Projected Lines
Brady Tkachuk (7) - Jack Eichel (9) - Matthew Tkachuk (19)
Jake Guentzel (59) - Auston Matthews (34) - Jack Hughes (86)
Matt Boldy (12) - J.T. Miller (10) - Dylan Larkin (21)
Kyle Connor (81) - Vincent Trocheck (16) - Brock Nelson (29)
Zach Werenski (8) - Charlie McAvoy (25)
Jaccob Slavin (74) - Brock Faber (14)
Noah Hanifin (15) - Adam Fox (23)
Connor Hellebuyck (37)
Jake Oettinger (30)
Team Canada
The favorites and the hosts of the Four Nations Face-Off surged to a brilliant start against Sweden, before nearly blowing it. But they have Mitch Marner to thank, who scored the game-winning goal in overtime to grab the extra point.
The three Avalanche participants found life enjoyable last game, particularly Nathan MacKinnon. He opened up the scoring in the tournament thanks to a beautiful passing play between Sidney Crosby, Connor McDavid, and Cale Makar. MacKinnon was almost the overtime hero several times, shooting the puck five times alone in the extra period.
Meanwhile, Devon Toews did his thing on the blue line playing 25 minutes alongside Makar. Will the three Avs connect to lead Canada to another win in a hotly-contested and classic matchup with their neighbors to the South?
Projected Lines
Sam Reinhart (13) - Connor McDavid (97) - Mitch Marner (16)
Sidney Crosby (87) - Nathan MacKinnon (29) - Mark Stone (61)
Brandon Hagel (38) - Anthony Cirelli (71) - Brayden Point (21)
Brad Marchand (63) - Sam Bennett (9) - Seth Jarvis (24)
Devon Toews (5) - Cale Makar (8)
Josh Morrissey (44) - Colton Parayko (55)
Travis Sanheim (6) - Drew Doughty (89)
Jordan Binnington (50
Adin Hill (33)
NOTE: Cale Makar missed practice yesterday after feeling ill. He is currently listed as a game-time decision. Without Shea Theodore for the rest of the tournament due to injury, should Makar be unable to play, Canada would have a huge loss on the blue line. Thomas Harley recently called up from the Dallas Stars would slot in his place.
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...ur-nations-face-off-canada-usa-finland-sweden
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Preview: All eyes on second USA-Canada battle in Four Nations Face-Off
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...da-battle-in-four-nations-face-off-tournament
Photo by Vitor Munhoz/4NFO/World Cup of Hockey via Getty Images
This time, it’s for pride and for country to win a trophy.
If one wasn’t enough, get ready for the second act.
Team USA and Team Canada have fulfilled the prophecy everybody hoped for when the Four Nations Face-Off was announced by playing in tonight’s final. After playing a heavily intensified first matchup on Saturday night, 60 minutes is all that’s separating a trophy for their country for either side,
The US won Saturday night’s game 3-1, filled with the dramatics of the booing of the National Anthem, and three fights within the first nine seconds. Canada, now the visitors down in Boston, will look to get redemption and win the biggest game of the tournament.
Team USA
The US had already clinched its spot in the championship game with its win over their neighbors to the North on Saturday. Hence, Monday’s game against Sweden meant nothing in the grand scheme of things. But they did fall 2-1 that evening.
They needed all the rest and bodies they could get. The red, white, and blue were without Matthew Tkachuk, Charlie McAvoy, and Auston Matthews due to injuries and illness respectively. Plus, Brady Tkachuk left the game injured himself after crashing into the net.
Three of the four are expected to be back for tonight’s pivotal game, with McAvoy administered to a Boston hospital with an infection. Brett Pesce from the New Jersey Devils was called up in relief after confusion trying to call up Vancouver Canucks defenseman Quinn Hughes.
Neither Hughes nor Pesce is expected to play unless another US defender is ruled out of this game. But with both Tkachuk brothers and Matthews returning, can the United States play “Free Bird” long into the night with a win?
Projected Lines
Jake Guentzel (59) - Auston Matthews (34) - Jack Hughes (86)
Brady Tkachuk (7) - Jack Eichel (9) - Matthew Tkachuk (19)
J.T. Miller (10) - Dylan Larkin (21) - Matt Boldy (12)
Chris Kreider (20) - Vincent Trocheck (16) - Brock Nelson (29)
Jaccob Slavin (74) - Brock Faber (14)
Zach Werenski (8) - Jake Sanderson (85)
Noah Hanifin (15) - Adam Fox (23)
Connor Hellebuyck (37)
Jake Oettinger (30)
Team Canada
Canada was in a win-and-in situation against Team Finland on Monday afternoon to make it to the championship after the loss to the US. They were comfortably up 4-0 and nearly blew it in the final few minutes, but managed to hold on for the 5-3 win.
The Colorado Avalanche and its participants are well-suited and well-known with Team Canada. Nathan MacKinnon has continued to fly under everyone’s radar on a team with Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid. Plus, the blue line pairing of Cale Makar and Devon Toews has been just as good with a maple leaf on a jersey as it has been with the Avalanche ‘A’ on it.
Crucially against the US on Saturday, Makar was absent from the team sheet due to illness. With Canada’s No. 8 seemingly good to go, he might just make the difference in tonight’s matchup. With lots at stake on the ice thanks to a supercharge of influence both on and off the ice, can Canada conquer all to win the big prize?
Projected Lines
Brayden Point (21) - Connor McDavid (97) - Mark Stone (61)
Sidney Crosby (87) - Nathan MacKinnon (29) - Sam Reinhart (13)
Brandon Hagel (38) - Anthony Cirelli (71) - Mitch Marner (16)
Brad Marchand (63) - Sam Bennett (9) - Seth Jarvis (24)
Devon Toews (5) - Cale Makar (8)
Josh Morrissey (44) - Colton Parayko (55)
Travis Sanheim (6) - Drew Doughty (89)
Jordan Binnington (50)
Adin Hill (33)
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...da-battle-in-four-nations-face-off-tournament
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Recap: Canada gets their revenge in Four Nations Championship Game win
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...-win-the-4-nations-championship-game-team-usa
Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images
In a phenomenal rematch between team USA and team Canada, Connor McDavid would win the game for Team Canada in overtime.
First Period
Nathan MacKinnon would be the one to get Canada on the board first, at just about five minutes into the first period. On this play, MacKinnon would dance his way to the top of the circles and just ripped the puck on net from distance from there. Connor Hellebuyck didn’t see the puck whatsoever, and it was 1-0 Canada early.
NATHAN MACKINNON OPENS THE SCORING! #4Nations
: @espn & @ESPNPlus
: @Sportsnet or stream on Sportsnet+
— NHL (@NHL) February 21, 2025
The USA would answer before the period was over, as Brady Tkachuk would tie this game at 1-1 for the USA. Tkachuk just did what he does best on this goal which is cause chaos in front of the net, and he was eventually able to put the puck past Jordan Binnington.
Score a goal then lay the body
Brady Tkachuk is an ABSOLUTE FORCE for the USA. #4Nations
: @espn & @ESPNPlus
: @Sportsnet or stream on Sportsnet+
— NHL (@NHL) February 21, 2025Second Period
Both teams would exchange goals in this period as well, and this time it would be the USA that would get on the board first in this period. After the USA caused some chaos in front of Canada’s yet, Jake Sanderson would ultimately bat the puck out of midair and put it past Binnington to give the USA a 2-1 lead.
JAKE SANDERSON
IT'S 2-1 USA! #4Nations
: @espn & @ESPNPlus
: @Sportsnet or stream on Sportsnet+
— NHL (@NHL) February 21, 2025
Sam Bennett would then respond with a goal for Canada after that, as he managed to get in alone with Hellebuyck and roofed the puck past him to make it 2-2.
THIS GAME IS TIED AGAIN
Sam Bennett goes upstairs to make this a 2-2 game! #4Nations
: @espn & @ESPNPlus
: @Sportsnet or stream on Sportsnet+
— NHL (@NHL) February 21, 2025Third Period
Both teams had a handful of chances on both ends of the ice, but neither team was able to end the game in regulation, so we would head to overtime.
Overtime
Connor McDavid would ultimately be the hero in overtime for team Canada. He actually initially had a chance to end the game right off the draw at the start of this play, and after that chance, McDavid wound up in the slot completely ungaurded. Mitch Marner made a great pass to him, and he made no mistake, giving team Canada the win. Nathan MacKinnon would also win the 4 Nations MVP award!
Takeaways
What an absolutely phenomenal game. In fact, this whole tournament was just so much fun to watch. This was a breath of fresh air and a much needed departure from an All-Star Weekend format that had frankly gone a bit stale in recent years. Instead of just running it back with that format, the NHL made a much needed change, and came up with a tournament that ended up being absoultely electric to watch. I for one enjoyed watching some actual hockey during this break for a change! That being said, I’m also excited to get back to the NHL regular season on Saturday as well!
Upcoming
The NHL season continues again on Saturday, and the Colorado Avalanche take on the Nashville Predators on Saturday at 4:00 p.m. MT!
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...-win-the-4-nations-championship-game-team-usa
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Open Thread: Team USA vs. Team Canada (6:00 p.m.)
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...-open-thread-team-usa-vs-team-canada-6-00-p-m
Photo by Vitor Munhoz/4NFO/World Cup of Hockey via Getty Images
It’s time to wrap up the tournament!
If one wasn’t enough, get ready for the second act.
Team USA and Team Canada have fulfilled the prophecy everybody hoped for when the Four Nations Face-Off was announced by playing in tonight’s final. After playing a heavily intensified first matchup on Saturday night, 60 minutes is all that’s separating a trophy for their country for either side,
The US won Saturday night’s game 3-1, filled with the dramatics of the booing of the National Anthem, and three fights within the first nine seconds. Canada, now the visitors down in Boston, will look to get redemption and win the biggest game of the tournament.
Team USA Projected Lines
Jake Guentzel (59) - Auston Matthews (34) - Jack Hughes (86)
Brady Tkachuk (7) - Jack Eichel (9) - Matthew Tkachuk (19)
J.T. Miller (10) - Dylan Larkin (21) - Matt Boldy (12)
Chris Kreider (20) - Vincent Trocheck (16) - Brock Nelson (29)
Jaccob Slavin (74) - Brock Faber (14)
Zach Werenski (8) - Jake Sanderson (85)
Noah Hanifin (15) - Adam Fox (23)
Connor Hellebuyck (37)
Jake Oettinger (30)
Team Canada Projected Lines
Brayden Point (21) - Connor McDavid (97) - Mark Stone (61)
Sidney Crosby (87) - Nathan MacKinnon (29) - Sam Reinhart (13)
Brandon Hagel (38) - Anthony Cirelli (71) - Mitch Marner (16)
Brad Marchand (63) - Sam Bennett (9) - Seth Jarvis (24)
Devon Toews (5) - Cale Makar (8)
Josh Morrissey (44) - Colton Parayko (55)
Travis Sanheim (6) - Drew Doughty (89)
Jordan Binnington (50)
Adin Hill (33)
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...-open-thread-team-usa-vs-team-canada-6-00-p-m
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Eagles Takeaways: Colorado falls in overtime to Texas; two points out of first
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...o-texas-two-points-out-of-first-in-cedar-park
Andy Nietupski / TTL Sports Media / Texas Stars
Jere Innala and Ivan Ivan score in the OT loss to the Stars.
The Colorado Eagles looked to get back on track after being swept last weekend by the Abbotsford Canucks (VAN) in two games. The Abbotsford Canucks outscored them 6-2 last weekend; Jere Innala and T.J. Tynan scored for the Eagles. They will now battle the Central’s second place Texas Stars (DAL).
The Eagles will have to do it without their top scoring defenseman Jacob MacDonald who has been practicing with the Colorado Avalanche all week. On the bright side, the Eagles got forwards Chase Bradley and Maroš Jedlička back from injury last weekend. However, defenseman Calle Rosén missed both games last weekend. Both Matt Stienbug and Devante Stephens remain out of the lineup because of injury and Jason Polin is the closest to a return. The Eagles would fall in overtime 3–2 to the Stars after clawing back the entire game. Here are my takeaways from the overtime loss.
Takeaways
In the early part of the game, the Eagles had trouble working into the slot or in front of the crease. There was only one shot on net in the first period from Chris Wagner that was in the high danger zone. The Eagles spent the rest of the first period on the perimeter, attempting shots from there. Jean-Luc Foudy had at least five attempts on net but only one made it through because of traffic.
As MacDonald was with the Avalanche, the Eagles may have shown a lack of confidence in one certain area. They have learned to depend on the veteran defenseman too much while on the power play. They had a couple of good chances and converted two, but nothing like when MacDonald is on the ice. MacDonald brings confidence to the team when he is on the ice for the power play. A good comparison would be when the Avalanche are missing Nathan MacKinnon. Something just does not seem right on the unit, despite the two goals.
The Eagles clawed within one point of first place in the Pacific Division by taking the game to overtime. The only teams ahead of them are the Calgary Wranglers (CGY) and Ontario Reign (LAK), who they will play next weekend. A sloppy pass by Innala to Wyatt Aamodt led to the steal by Texas and the game winner. Innala was trying to be deceptive in the pass by not really looking at where he was passing. Unfortunately, Kyle Capobianco read it perfectly to steal the puck away and take off for the game winner.
Upcoming
The Eagles will be back at it tomorrow night against the Texas Stars in Cedar Park, Texas at the H-E-B Center at 6 p.m. MT.
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...o-texas-two-points-out-of-first-in-cedar-park
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Preview: Avalanche look to ramp it up as NHL returns from Four Nations break
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...nhl-returns-from-four-nations-break-nashville
Photo by John Russell/NHLI via Getty Images
The Avs return to action to visit the division rival Nashville Predators.
After the remarkable success of the Four Nations Faceoff, which captivated the sports world in North America for the last 10 days, the National Hockey League is back in action Saturday, with 14 games occurring across the league.
The Colorado Avalanche return to play with some positive momentum, as Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, and Devon Toews return from the Four Nations Faceoff as champions with Team Canada. Additionally, MacKinnon was recognized as the Most Valuable Player of the tournament, as his bid for consecutive NHL Hart Trophies continues to gain steam.
To put a cherry on top of it all, all four of the Avs representatives left the tournament healthy, with the three Canadians (and Artturi Lehkonen) all expected to suit up tonight.
Despite the positives, the Avalanche have a tough task at hand, as they return to action to the tune of a back-to-back set that squares them off against two divisional rivals on the road, starting off with the Nashville Predators this afternoon, and the St. Louis Blues tomorrow afternoon. Colorado won four out of five games going into the break, and a win tonight would go a long way in immediately re-establishing that momentum for the home stretch of the season as they jostle for playoff seeding.
This is the final time the Avs will face the Predators this season, and these are the games you need to come out of with two points.
Colorado Avalanche
Fresh off of a Four Nations MVP performance from MacKinnon, he and the top defense pair of Makar and Toews return to the Avs with gold medals around their necks, and a lot of alcohol consumed between the tournament win and tonight’s contest. It appears that a large majority (if not all) of the players on the ice for Thursday’s championship game are going to play right away in the return to NHL action, Avs included.
For the rest of the guys, it’s going to be crucial to get back up to speed quickly. The four who have been playing during the layoff are going to have to lead the way on the ice to establish the momentum the Avs need to resume on their push for better playoff seeding. Sitting in the west’s first wild card spot at the pause, they’re still in striking range of second place in the central division, which would guarantee home ice in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Of the guys who got a vacation, it’s going to be interesting to see how Martin Necas performs. He was red hot following the trade from Carolina and had established a nice rapport with MacKinnon on the top line. His success alongside MacKinnon will be paramount as the Avs await for players to return to health, as well as while we approach the March 6th trade deadline.
Josh Manson and Valeri Nichushkin will not play on this two-game road trip. Nichushkin was skating with the team in Denver earlier this week, and Bednar is hopeful he’ll return to the lineup when the Avs return home on Thursday.
MacKenzie Blackwood will likely get the start in net. He had some solid performances prior to the break, including consecutive shutouts against the Blues and Flyers. There’s no player who the Avs need to maintain their strong play more than Blackwood, as his success helped turn the outlook of the season around. On the season, Blackwood has a 2.53 goals against average and a 2.53 save percentage.
Projected Lineup
Artturi Lehkonen (62) — Nathan MacKinnon (29) — Martin Necas (88)
Jonathan Drouin (27) — Casey Mittelstadt (37) — Juuso Parssinen (16)
Miles Wood (28) — Jack Drury (18) — Ross Colton (20)
Joel Kiviranta (94) — Parker Kelly (17) — Logan O’Connor (25)
Devon Toews (7) — Cale Makar (8)
Samuel Girard (49) — Sam Malinski (70)
Calvin De Haan (44) — Oliver Kylington (58)
MacKenzie Blackwood (39)
Scott Wedgewood (41)
Nashville Predators
It has been a woeful season for the Predators. Coming into the year with high expectations after newly named general manager Barry Trotz spent big on the 2024 free agent class. Big contracts to Brady Skjei, Jonathan Marchessault, and most notably Steven Stamkos, set the precedent that the Preds were ready to compete with the brass of the Western Conference once again.
Nashville has struggled to maintain any kind of stabilized success from the jump, opening the season as the last team in the NHL to secure their first win, and never finding their footing to climb out of that hole. With a 19-28-7 record on the season, they will need a miracle in this final stretch to even contend for a wild card spot.
The Predators are also dealing with some injury woes, as they recently announced that defensemen Jeremy Lauzon and Adam Wilsby will miss the remainder of the season with injuries. Additionally, they put young bruising forward Zachary L’Heureux on IR. He’s week to week.
Juuse Saros figures to start in goal for Nashville, fresh off of backstopping Team Finland at the Four Nations. He has had a difficult season behind the struggling Preds, with a 2.95 goals against average, and a .899 save percentage on the season. His overall record is 11-23-6, with four shutouts, a nice positive for a down season.
Projected Lineup
Filip Forsberg (9) — Ryan O’Reilly (90) Jonathan Marchessault (81)
Steven Stamkos (91) — Fedor Svechkov (40) — Gustav Nyquist (14)
Mark Jankowski (17) — Tommy Novak (82) — Luke Evangelista (77)
Cole Smith (36) — Michael McCarron (47) — Colton Sissons (10)
Roman Josi (59) — Justin Barron (20)
Brady Skjei (76) — Nick Blankenburg (37)
Andreas Englund (5) — Jake Livingstone (23)
Juuse Saros (74)
Justus Annunen (29)
Source: https://www.milehighhockey.com/2025...nhl-returns-from-four-nations-break-nashville