The Calgary Flames put defenseman Tyson Barrie on the waiver wire Tuesday, according to Sportsnet...

The Calgary Flames put defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1934" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1934">Tyson Barrie</a> on the waiver wire Tuesday, according to <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/FriedgeHNIC/status/1892651057055969336">Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman</a>.Barrie has been limited to 13 NHL games this season due to injury and being made a healthy scratch. He has a goal and two assists while averaging a career-low 15:48 in 2024-25. The 33-year-old produced one tally and two helpers in two outings with the AHL's Calgary Wranglers, for whom he played while on a conditioning loan in late January.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Flames invited Barrie to training camp on a professional tryout deal last fall and subsequently signed him to a one-year, $1.25-million contract.Barrie is in his 14th NHL campaign. The British Columbia-born rearguard has topped the 50-point mark three times, most recently with a 55-point effort while playing 85 games with the Edmonton Oilers (61) and Nashville Predators (24) in 2022-23.However, his offense has dried up since then. Barrie collected a goal and 14 assists in 41 contests with the Predators in 2023-24. The Flames have controlled only 48.11% of the expected goals with the veteran on the ice this season, per <a target="_blank" href="https://www.naturalstattrick.com/">Natural Stat Trick</a>.Barrie has also suited up for the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Colorado Avalanche. He spent his first eight campaigns with Colorado, the club that drafted him 64th overall in 2009. The Avalanche traded him to the Leafs for a package including <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1182" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1182">Nazem Kadri</a> in the summer of 2019.

CALGARY, CANADA - FEBRUARY 04: Tyson Barrie #8 of the Calgary Flames stretches during warmup before the game against the Toronto Maple Leafs at the Scotiabank Saddledome on February 04, 2025, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

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Flames place Barrie on waivers

Quinn Hughes isn't meeting up with the United States squad after all.  Team USA was informed that...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7960" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7960">Quinn Hughes</a> isn't meeting up with the United States squad after all.Team USA was informed that the Vancouver Canucks defenseman wasn't medically cleared ahead of the 4 Nations Face-Off final against Canada, Hughes' agent, Pat Brisson, told <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/PierreVLeBrun/status/1892315169294086531">TSN's Pierre LeBrun</a>.U.S. head coach Mike Sullivan <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3220668" href="https://thescore.com/news/3220668">said</a> Tuesday morning that "Quinn Hughes is coming" in the wake of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5599" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5599">Charlie McAvoy</a>'s injury. Hughes was only able to play if another player got hurt or became ill.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The reigning Norris Trophy winner then practiced with the Canucks later in the day, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3220943" href="https://thescore.com/news/3220943">acknowledged</a> the U.S. still had the required minimum of six defensemen, and said "the rules are the rules."Team USA tabbed Hughes as one of its first six players selected to the squad in June, but he withdrew just days before the tournament began due to injury. The Orlando-born blue-liner missed four games leading up to the break. Hughes leads all NHL defensemen in points per game (1.26) and assists (45) in 47 games this season. His 59 points top the Canucks and are 24 more than forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6354" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6354">Brock Boeser</a>.

DALLAS, TEXAS - JANUARY 31: Quinn Hughes #43 of the Vancouver Canucks walks to the ice prior to the first period of the game against the Dallas Stars at American Airlines Center on January 31, 2025 in Dallas, Texas.

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Quinn Hughes won't join Team USA

Auston Matthews will play in Thursday's 4 Nations Face-Off championship game between his United S...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5586" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Auston Matthews</a> will play in Thursday's 4 Nations Face-Off championship game between his United States and Canada, both he and U.S. head coach Mike Sullivan confirmed Wednesday.Matthews revealed the injury that forced him to miss Monday's meaningless loss to Sweden was a new one, but he has progressed since then and is ready to play in the decisive clash, according to <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/PierreVLeBrun/status/1892270452417929649">TSN's Pierre LeBrun</a>."There's no way I was missing this game," the Toronto Maple Leafs captain said, per <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/JClipperton_CP/status/1892270282309611825">The Canadian Press' Joshua Clipperton</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Sullivan said <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5599" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5599">Charlie McAvoy</a> is Team USA's only player who's definitely out, according to <a href="https://x.com/PierreVLeBrun/status/1892272453780484234">LeBrun</a>. McAvoy was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3220619" href="https://thescore.com/news/3220619">ruled out</a> of the final Tuesday, and his Boston Bruins later <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3220898" href="https://thescore.com/news/3220898">announced</a> he underwent surgery to heal an infection resulting from a shoulder injury.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5591" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5591">Matthew Tkachuk</a> also missed Monday's game due to injury, but it was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3220627" href="https://thescore.com/news/3220627">reported</a> Tuesday that he and his brother <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7845" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7845">Brady</a> intend to play Thursday. The elder Tkachuk corroborated the report Wednesday."I'm ready to go," the Florida Panthers forward said, per <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/RussoHockey/status/1892268607775682781">The Athletic's Michael Russo</a>. "It's going to be an incredible game, and I don't want to miss it."Meanwhile, the younger Tkachuk <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/PierreVLeBrun/status/1892272453780484234">sat out </a>Wednesday's practice due to illness, but Sullivan expects the Ottawa Senators captain to play in the final. Tkachuk got hurt in Monday's defeat. Matthew <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/RussoHockey/status/1892269476793434176">said</a> his brother is "saving everything he has for (Thursday) night, and I'm very confident he'll be at his absolute best."<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7960" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7960">Quinn Hughes</a> will <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3221477" href="https://thescore.com/news/3221477">not join</a> Team USA despite Sullivan saying Tuesday that the reigning Norris Trophy winner was coming as a potential injury replacement. In addition to his own ailment, Hughes also couldn't play unless an additional player couldn't suit up.

MONTREAL, CANADA - FEBRUARY 15: Auston Matthews #34 of Team USA skates during the third period against Team Canada in the 2025 NHL 4 Nations Face-Off at the Bell Centre on February 15, 2025 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Team USA defeated Team Canada 3-1.

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Matthews in for 4 Nations final: 'No way I was missing this game'

Brandon Hagel emphasized Team Canada's collective priorities over any individual motives.   The f...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5633" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5633">Brandon Hagel</a> emphasized Team Canada's collective priorities over any individual motives. The forward was asked Tuesday whether his squad needs to initiate physical play against an injury-plagued Team USA in Thursday's 4 Nations Face-Off final."I think we're out there playing for the flag, not the cameras," Hagel answered, according to <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/EricEngels/status/1891901703605420051">Sportsnet's Eric Engels</a>. "That's a part of Canada that we have in there.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"We don't need to initiate anything. We don't have any group chats going on. We're going out there playing our game and then giving it everything and doing it for our country. We don't need to initiate everything. We're just going to play as hard as we can and do it for the flag on the chest."Hagel fought U.S. forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5591" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5591">Matthew Tkachuk</a> two seconds into Saturday's 3-1 victory by the Americans. The rival sides fought three times in the first 9 seconds of the game.Hagel replied, "Five hundred?!" when asked how many times he's watched his fight with Tkachuk, per <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/lukefoxjukebox/status/1891902754844553238">Sportsnet's Luke Fox</a>.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7845" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7845">Brady Tkachuk</a> said over the weekend that Team USA <a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/shorts/th1s7vwoSuE">had a group chat</a> in which the players made plans for the matchup against Canada. The U.S. will be <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3220619" href="https://thescore.com/news/3220619">without</a> key defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5599" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5599">Charlie McAvoy</a> for the championship game due to injury. Matthew Tkachuk missed Monday's meaningless loss to Sweden and his brother got injured during that contest, but both <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3220627" href="https://thescore.com/news/3220627">reportedly</a> intend to play Thursday. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7960" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7960">Quinn Hughes</a> joined Team USA on Tuesday after pulling out of the tournament before it began. However, he can only play if another blue-liner can't suit up.Canada and the U.S. will meet at Boston's TD Garden at 8 p.m. ET on Thursday.

MONTREAL, CANADA - FEBRUARY 15: Brandon Hagel #38 of Team Canada gestures to the crowd following a first period fight against Matthew Tkachuk #19 of Team USA in the 4 Nations Face-Off game at the Bell Centre on February 15, 2025 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

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Hagel: Canada 'playing for the flag, not the cameras'

The Vancouver Canucks signed forward Drew O'Connor to a two-year contract extension with an avera...

The Vancouver Canucks signed forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9744" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9744">Drew O'Connor</a> to a two-year contract extension with an average annual value of $2.5 million, the team announced Tuesday.The Canucks acquired O'Connor from the Pittsburgh Penguins on Feb. 1."Drew has really made a good first impression since joining our team from Pittsburgh at the beginning of (February)," general manager Patrik Allvin said in a statement. "We like his size, speed, and ability to get in on the forecheck and hound pucks.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Our staff also feel confident that they can help Drew take his game to another level and we are excited to see what the future holds for him with the Vancouver Canucks."O'Connor has two goals in four games since joining the Canucks. He had six tallies and 10 assists in 53 games with the Penguins this season. The 26-year-old set career highs with 16 goals and 17 helpers in 79 contests with Pittsburgh in 2023-24.

SAN JOSE, CA - FEBRUARY 06: Vancouver Canucks left wing Drew O'Connor (18) celebrates his game winning OT goal during the NHL game between the Vancouver Canucks and the San Jose Sharks on February 06, 2025 at SAP Center in San Jose, CA.

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Canucks sign O'Connor to 2-year extension

Team USA might be getting some good news amid its injury woes at the 4 Nations Face-Off.  Brady a...

Team USA might be getting some good news amid its injury woes at the 4 Nations Face-Off.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7845" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7845">Brady</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5591" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5591">Matthew Tkachuk</a> both intend to play in Thursday's final against Canada, reports <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/emilymkaplan/status/1891876079930876370">ESPN's Emily Kaplan</a>.Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3220318" href="https://thescore.com/news/3220318">left</a> Monday's meaningless loss to Sweden after crashing into the opposing net. He returned to the bench but didn't take another shift and was eventually ruled out.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Team USA head coach Mike Sullivan said afterward that he held Tkachuk out as a precaution and didn't expect the injury to be an issue for Thursday. Tkachuk has a pair of points - both goals - in two games at the tournament.Meanwhile, Florida Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk missed Monday's game due to an ailment of his own. He missed the final 12 minutes of the U.S. victory over Canada on Saturday but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3219331" href="https://thescore.com/news/3219331">said</a> afterward that he had "no concern at all" about the injury.He has two goals and an assist in two contests at the event.American defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5599" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5599">Charlie McAvoy</a> won't play in Thursday's final. He's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3220619" href="https://thescore.com/news/3220619">undergoing testing</a> on an injury he sustained during the tourney. U.S. forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5586" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Auston Matthews</a>' status for the final is still uncertain. He didn't suit up for Monday's game.Canada and the U.S. will meet for the championship Thursday night at 8 p.m. ET.

MONTREAL, QUEBEC - FEBRUARY 13: Brady Tkachuk #7 of Team United States celebrates with his brother Matthew Tkachuk #19 after scoring a goal during the third period, his second of the game, in the 4 Nations Face-Off game between the United States and Finland at Bell Centre on February 13, 2025 in Montreal, Quebec.

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Report: Tkachuk brothers plan to play in 4 Nations final

Jack Eichel has hoisted the Stanley Cup, but he believes Thursday's looming 4 Nations Face-Off fi...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4558" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4558">Jack Eichel</a> has hoisted the Stanley Cup, but he believes Thursday's looming 4 Nations Face-Off final between his United States and Canada could personally be the matchup of the highest magnitude."This is huge, it's the biggest game I've played in quite some time, maybe ever," the American forward told reporters, including the <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/ConorRyan_93/status/1891708242188730621">Boston Globe's Conor Ryan</a>, about the championship matchup following a meaningless loss to Sweden on Monday night."I'm really looking forward to it. I think everyone in the room's looking forward to it. It's what we wanted, right?"<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The U.S. clinched a spot in the final with a 3-1 victory over Canada on Saturday. Canada earned its place in the decisive tilt with a 5-3 win over Finland on Monday.Eichel is tied for second in the tournament with four points (all assists) in three games.The Vegas Golden Knights center helped his NHL club win it all in 2022-23 with six goals and 20 assists over 22 playoff games. He's on track to shatter his career-best regular-season point total of 82, which he set with the Buffalo Sabres in 2018-19. Eichel has 69 points, including 50 helpers, in 55 contests in 2024-25. He's on pace for 102 points in 81 games.Team USA enters Thursday's 4 Nations final with numerous injury concerns. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7845" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7845">Brady Tkachuk</a> exited Monday's game and didn't return, while his brother <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5591" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5591">Matthew</a> along with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5586" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Auston Matthews</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5599" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5599">Charlie McAvoy</a> all sat out due to various ailments.The highly anticipated clash with Canada is scheduled for Thursday at 8 p.m. ET in Boston.

MONTREAL, QUEBEC - FEBRUARY 15: Jack Eichel #9 of Team United States controls the puck during the second period of the 4 Nations Face-Off game between the United States and Canada at Bell Centre on February 15, 2025 in Montreal, Quebec.

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Eichel: USA-Canada final might be biggest game of my career

Cale Makar suited up for Canada in a 5-3 win over Finland on Monday afternoon at the 4 Nations Fa...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8539" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8539">Cale Makar</a> suited up for Canada in a 5-3 win over Finland on Monday afternoon at the 4 Nations Face-Off in Boston.The superstar defenseman logged 23:57 in the victory. He was held off the scoresheet but registered four shots on goal and four blocked shots.Makar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3219199" href="https://thescore.com/news/3219199">missed</a> Canada's 3-1 loss to the United States on Saturday night in Montreal due to illness. Head coach Jon Cooper <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3217649" href="https://thescore.com/news/3217649">said</a> beforehand he was confident the 2021-22 Norris Trophy winner and four-time finalist would play before the blue-liner ultimately sat out.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8659" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8659">Thomas Harley</a> played in Makar's place in the defeat, pairing up with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/560" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/560">Drew Doughty</a>, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4175" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4175">Travis Sanheim</a> slotted into Makar's spot alongside <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5553" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5553">Devon Toews</a>.Makar rejoined his Colorado Avalanche teammate on Canada's top pairing Monday. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3161" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3161">Josh Morrissey</a> played alongside <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4482" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4482">Colton Parayko</a>, while Sanheim paired up with Doughty.Makar led all skaters with 28:06 of ice time in Canada's overtime victory over Sweden in the tournament opener Wednesday night.He took part in both of his team's optional skates over the weekend.Makar was one of the first six players Canada named to its roster in June. He paces all NHL defensemen with 22 goals and 63 points while ranking third in average ice time (25:49) in 57 games with the Avalanche this season.Canada <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3219497" href="https://thescore.com/news/3219497">had to win</a> Monday's matchup to advance to Thursday's final against the United States. The Canadians earned an immediate berth in the championship game with a victory in regulation.

MONTREAL, QUEBEC - FEBRUARY 12: Cale Makar #8 of Team Canada skates behind the net during the first period of the 4 Nations Face-Off game between Canada and Sweden at Bell Centre on February 12, 2025 in Montreal, Quebec.

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Makar returns to Canada's lineup for win over Finland

Patrik Laine took a parting shot at Sweden after Finland edged its bitter rival 4-3 in overtime a...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5587" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5587">Patrik Laine</a> took a parting shot at Sweden after Finland edged its bitter rival 4-3 in overtime at the 4 Nations Face-Off in Montreal on Saturday afternoon.When ESPN's Emily Kaplan noted to Laine postgame that "sometimes they call you guys the little brothers," the quotable forward implied the tables had turned."Well, I feel like we're the big brother now," Laine said. "It feels good. It's always fun to play against them and especially (to) come out on top."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/croSI6M04tM?si=G6h0eY-MppM7mZwW" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2567" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2567">Mikael Granlund</a> buried the winner on an odd-man rush less than two minutes into the extra frame.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/I0UjW91dK9Y?si=Z9flrDowNU8FuAJw" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure>Finland captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3004" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3004">Aleksander Barkov</a> credited Granlund, who's usually more of a facilitator, with taking matters into his own hands."Honestly, I didn't expect Granny to shoot when he had a three-on-one, but I'm so glad he did because he has an amazing shot," Barkov said, per <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/RussoHockey/status/1890871786314592484">The Athletic's Michael Russo</a>.Sweden head coach Sam Hallam pulled <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9896" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9896">Filip Gustavsson</a> to start the second period after the goaltender allowed two soft goals on four shots in the first. However, Hallam clarified postgame that Gustavsson was merely dealing with an illness and that his benching wasn't performance-related, according to <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/EricEngels/status/1890874726781681924">Sportsnet's Eric Engels</a>."Unfortunate for us, unfortunate for Gus," Hallam said.Finland netminder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7694" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7694">Kevin Lankinen</a> made 21 saves, while Sweden's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3922" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3922">Linus Ullmark</a> turned aside 15 of 17 shots in relief of Gustavsson. Barkov tied the game 3-3 with 2:55 left in the second period. Earlier in the frame, Sweden rallied with goals from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7216" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7216">Rasmus Dahlin</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/864" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/864">Erik Karlsson</a> in under five minutes to take a 3-2 lead.Finland led 2-1 after 20 minutes. Sweden's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2033" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2033">Mika Zibanejad</a> opened the scoring 8:35 into the game, but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9200" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9200">Anton Lundell</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4772" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4772">Mikko Rantanen</a> replied for the Finns. The victors earned two points for the overtime victory, while the Swedes picked up their second single point of the tourney after dropping their opener 4-3 in overtime to Canada on Wednesday.As a result, only the United States can clinch a berth in the final Saturday. The Americans will advance to the championship game if they defeat Canada in regulation in the evening's highly anticipated matchup.

MONTREAL, QUEBEC - FEBRUARY 15: Patrik Laine #92 of Team Finland talks with Finnish sports reporter Ville Touru during warm-up before the 4 Nations Face-Off game between Finland and Sweden at Bell Centre on February 15, 2025 in Montreal, Quebec.

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Finland's Laine: 'We're the big brother now' after beating Sweden

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Ranking the top candidates to be dealt before the NHL trade deadline

Dallas Stars defenseman Thomas Harley got the green light to join Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Of...

Dallas Stars defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8659" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8659">Thomas Harley</a> got the green light to join Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Off, NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly confirmed to <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/PierreVLeBrun/status/1890444367111831601">TSN's Pierre LeBrun</a> on Friday.Daly said the league and the NHLPA agreed Harley can be with the squad in case <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8539" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8539">Cale Makar</a> is unable to play against the United States on Saturday night. Makar missed Friday's practice due to illness.Canada head coach Jon Cooper is optimistic about Makar's availability.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Expect is a big word, but I'm confident," he said, according to <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/reporterchris/status/1890450409849852153">TSN's Chris Johnston</a>. "I'm confident he'll be there."It was <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6135565/2025/02/13/thomas-harley-4-nations-canada-injury-sub/">reported</a> Thursday that Harley was already on standby and was scheduled to travel to Boston on Friday in the wake of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3232" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3232">Shea Theodore</a>'s tournament-ending injury.Canada will play one more game in Montreal - Saturday's showdown against the U.S. - before heading to Boston for the rest of the tournament.Theodore suffered an <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3216976" href="https://thescore.com/news/3216976">apparent wrist injury</a> in the second period of Canada's 4-3 overtime victory over Sweden on Wednesday and is considered week-to-week. Philadelphia Flyers rearguard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4175" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4175">Travis Sanheim</a> is set to enter the lineup in Theodore's absence, but Canada no longer has a spare blue-liner on its roster. Squads could only bring one extra player at each position, totaling 20 skaters and three goalies.Initially, the 4 Nations teams could only add new players if there were fewer than 18 healthy skaters or two able netminders remaining on their rosters, but that rule has been adjusted in light of Canada's jam. "We have told them they can identify and notify a player that he would be next up," Daly told The Athletic. "But they know they have to play with the six (defensemen) they have left until they drop below that."Can't add anyone to the team or have him participate in any team activities until that happens."Harley has amassed nine goals and 29 points in 53 games so far this campaign while averaging 22:39 minutes of ice time per contest. He's also a team-leading plus-26, and he's been seeing 25 minutes per game since <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6612" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6612">Miro Heiskanen</a> was injured Jan. 28.The 23-year-old helped Canada win silver at the 2021 World Junior Championship.

TORONTO, ON - JANUARY 14: Dallas Stars Defenceman Thomas Harley (55) skates with the puck during the NHL regular season game between the Dallas Stars and the Toronto Maple Leafs on January 14, 2025, at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, ON, Canada.

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Stars' Harley cleared to join Team Canada

The Dallas Stars inked forward Sam Steel to a two-year contract extension with a $2.1-million ave...

The Dallas Stars inked forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5615" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5615">Sam Steel</a> to a two-year contract extension with a $2.1-million average annual value, the club announced Friday.Steel has a $1.2-million cap hit this season, per <a target="_blank" href="https://puckpedia.com/player/sam-steel">PuckPedia</a>.The 27-year-old has four goals and 13 assists while averaging 14:45 of ice time over 54 games in 2024-25.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>He's in his second campaign and second one-year pact with the Stars, who re-signed him July 1.Steel spent 2022-23 with the Minnesota Wild, setting career highs in goals (10), assists (18), and points. Before that, he played four seasons with the Anaheim Ducks, who drafted him 30th overall in 2016.

OTTAWA, CANADA - JANUARY 12: Sam Steel #18 of the Dallas Stars skates against the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre on January 12, 2025 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

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Stars extend Steel on 2-year deal

Auston Matthews isn't surprised that he got a chilly reception from fans at the Bell Centre at th...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5586" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Auston Matthews</a> isn't surprised that he got a chilly reception from fans at the Bell Centre at the 4 Nations Face-Off on Wednesday night.The Toronto Maple Leafs captain, who's also wearing the "C" for Team USA at the ongoing event, was vigorously booed by the Montreal faithful when he was introduced during the opening ceremony before Canada's win over Sweden.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wwvSgO2wPhw?si=lpKkRzpRorCt1oM5" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure>Matthews shrugged it off when asked about it Thursday.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"It's something you just embrace and have fun with," he said, according to <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/markhmasters/status/1890115797290484048">TSN's Mark Masters</a>. "I mean, if you're getting booed you must be doing something right. ... I take it as a good thing or maybe as a sign of respect."Matthews has 28 goals and 18 assists in 36 career regular-season games against the Canadiens. The three-time "Rocket" Richard Trophy winner and 2022 MVP posted one tally and four helpers in seven contests versus the Habs during the 2021 playoff series in which Montreal prevailed.The U.S. meets Finland at the 4 Nations Face-Off on Thursday night at 8 p.m. ET.

MONTREAL, QUEBEC - FEBRUARY 11: Auston Matthews #34 of Team United States looks on prior to a team photo during media day at the 2025 NHL 4 Nations Face-Off at Bell Centre on February 11, 2025 in Montreal, Quebec.

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Matthews downplays Montreal boos: 'Must be doing something right'

Sweden's Adrian Kempe accentuated the positive despite losing 4-3 in overtime to Canada in Wednes...

Sweden's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4520" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4520">Adrian Kempe</a> accentuated the positive despite losing 4-3 in overtime to Canada in Wednesday's 4 Nations Face-Off opener.The Los Angeles Kings forward believed his team was superior for most of the game. "Obviously you have all the (Canadian) fans at your back and everything, so they came out more excited to play than we were," Kempe said postgame, according to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nhl.com/news/topic/4-nations-face-off/sweden-taking-positives-from-loss-in-4-nations-face-off-opener">NHL.com's Tracey Myers</a>. "But after 10 minutes in the first period, I think honestly we felt like we were the better team the rest of the game.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"Obviously, we were down two goals going into the third, so it was a strong comeback and we'll take the one point. We're happy about the comeback."Canada opened up an early two-goal lead on goals by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3002" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3002">Nathan MacKinnon</a> (56 seconds into the contest) and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/100" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/100">Brad Marchand</a> (13:15 in). <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2600" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2600">Jonas Brodin</a> got Sweden on the board in the second period, but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1741" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1741">Mark Stone</a> replied to restore Canada's two-goal advantage.The Swedes rallied to tie it in the third on goals by Kempe and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5684" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5684">Joel Eriksson Ek</a>, but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4718" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4718">Mitch Marner</a> netted the overtime winner just over six minutes into the extra frame.Brodin also took solace in the fact that the Swedes played better as the game progressed."The first period, I felt we were a little bit stressed with the puck, but they were coming really hard too and we knew that, especially the first 15 minutes," the Minnesota Wild defenseman said. "But then after that, I thought we did a great job in the second and third."We talked about it after first, to calm it down and make some plays. And I thought we did."Sweden will next face Finland on Saturday at 1 p.m. ET, and Canada will battle the United States that evening at 8 p.m. ET. The Americans open their tourney against the Finns on Thursday night.

MONTREAL, QUEBEC - FEBRUARY 12: Adrian Kempe #10 of Team Sweden looks to celebrate with Filip Forsberg #9 and Mattias Ekholm #14 after scoring a goal during the third period of the 4 Nations Face-Off game between Canada and Sweden at Bell Centre on February 12, 2025 in Montreal, Quebec.

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Kempe: Sweden 'happy about the comeback' despite loss

Sidney Crosby has a wealth of experience, but even the future Hall of Famer says he'll be battlin...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1002" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1002">Sidney Crosby</a> has a wealth of experience, but even the future Hall of Famer says he'll be battling nerves when he lines up for Canada against Sweden in the 4 Nations Face-Off opener at Montreal's Bell Centre on Wednesday night."That's part of the game, and these are the games you want to be part of as a hockey player," the Canadian captain told <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nhl.com/news/topic/4-nations-face-off/crosby-expects-butterflies-for-4-nations-opener-with-canada-vs-sweden">NHL.com's Mike Zeisberger</a>. "And that's a big part of it and why you put so much into it. You love it, and that's why you put so much into these big games."I mean, I think there's going to be anticipation, butterflies, all those things. That's what makes these moments great."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Crosby's status for the tournament was in doubt due to injury until he <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3215025" href="https://thescore.com/news/3215025">deemed himself</a> good to go Monday. The Pittsburgh Penguins star, who also wears the "C" for his NHL club, missed the last two games heading into the break."Yeah, I'm playing," he reiterated Wednesday. "I think it'll be something that I'll have a better idea of how it feels once I get into the flow of the game, as far as knowing what I can do out there. But I feel really good, really confident going into it. That's the biggest part. Mentally, I feel really good about it."The 37-year-old soaked up the atmosphere as one of a handful of players to take part in Wednesday's optional skate."I haven't played in a while (Feb. 4), so it's nice to get out there," Crosby said. "There's worse places to have a morning skate than at the Bell Centre in a situation like this. I mean, this building, there's a certain feel to it, with so much history. It's just a hockey feel."Crosby was instrumental in helping Canada win gold at the Olympics in 2010 and 2014, as well as at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey - the most recent best-on-best men's hockey tournament. He scored the "golden goal" in overtime to defeat the United States in the championship game in 2010. The Nova Scotia-born center leads the Penguins in assists (41) and points (58) through 55 contests this season.

BROSSARD, QUEBEC - FEBRUARY 10: Sidney Crosby #87 of Team Canada is seen at practice for the 4 Nations Face-Off at CN Sports Complex on February 10, 2025 in Brossard, Quebec.

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Crosby expecting 'butterflies' ahead of matchup with Sweden

Sweden entrusted Filip Gustavsson with its crease in its 4 Nations Face-Off opener against Canada...

Sweden entrusted <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9896" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9896">Filip Gustavsson</a> with its crease in its 4 Nations Face-Off opener against Canada on Wednesday night.Gustavsson is 22-11-3 with a .915 save percentage in 37 games for the Minnesota Wild this season.Gustavsson got the nod over Ottawa Senators netminder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3922" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3922">Linus Ullmark</a> and Philadelphia Flyers puck-stopper <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10808" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10808">Sam Ersson</a>, who replaced the injured <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1677" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1677">Jacob Markstrom</a> of the New Jersey Devils.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The event is Gustavsson's fifth with Sweden. The 26-year-old helped the Tre Kronor claim silver at the Under-18 World Championship in 2016 and at the world juniors two years later. He also helped his country win bronze at the World Championship last May.Canada started St. Louis Blues goalie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2135" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2135">Jordan Binnington</a> for the tournament opener, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4649" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4649">Adin Hill</a> of the Vegas Golden Knights backing him up. The Montreal Canadiens' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4728" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4728">Sam Montembeault</a> is a healthy scratch.

BROSSARD, QUEBEC - FEBRUARY 10: Goaltender Filip Gustavsson #32 of Team Sweden makes a save during practice for the NHL 4 Nations Face-Off at CN Sports Complex on February 10, 2025 in Brossard, Quebec.

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Sweden goes with Gustavsson in 4 Nations opener vs. Canada

It's been over eight years since there was a best-on-best men's international hockey tournament, ...

It's been over eight years since there was a best-on-best men's international hockey tournament, so there's no shortage of superstars playing in an event of this magnitude for the first time.Some of the NHL's best players were just starting their careers when the World Cup of Hockey took place in Toronto in September 2016, and some of them weren't even in the league yet.The term "best-on-best" describes an event such as the Olympics, the World Cup of Hockey, or this 4 Nations Face-Off that features full rosters made up of the game's top talent. The World Championship occurs simultaneously with the Stanley Cup Playoffs, so that tourney doesn't get the cream of the crop.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Quinn Hughes would've ranked No. 1 on our list had he been able to play in the 4 Nations Face-Off, but he <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3214658" href="https://thescore.com/news/3214658">pulled out of the tourney</a> Sunday due to injury.Here are the 10 most talented players getting their first cracks at best-on-best competition.<h3>10. Mitch Marner 🇨🇦</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769712/cropped_GettyImages-683877534.jpg?ts=1739151538" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769712/w220xh124_GettyImages-683877534.jpg?ts=1739151538 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769712/w320xh180_GettyImages-683877534.jpg?ts=1739151538 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769712/w640xh360_GettyImages-683877534.jpg?ts=1739151538 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769712/w768xh432_GettyImages-683877534.jpg?ts=1739151538 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769712/w1080xh607_GettyImages-683877534.jpg?ts=1739151538 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Xavier Laine / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Marner is often overlooked on a Toronto Maple Leafs squad that includes Auston Matthews and a certain Swede who's also on this list. But the Canadian winger leads his NHL club by significant margins in assists and points this season. The 27-year-old is on pace to surpass the 100-point plateau in a campaign for the first time after narrowly falling short with 97 and 99 in 2021-22 and 2022-23, respectively.Even though he hasn't yet taken part in best-on-best action, Marner has worn the Red and White on several occasions. He won gold representing Canada at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup in 2014, and he was part of a sixth-place entry at the world juniors two years later. Marner collected four goals and eight assists in 10 games as Canada took home silver at the World Championship in 2017.<h3>9. Brayden Point 🇨🇦</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769716/cropped_GettyImages-686459794.jpg?ts=1739151710" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769716/w220xh124_GettyImages-686459794.jpg?ts=1739151710 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769716/w320xh180_GettyImages-686459794.jpg?ts=1739151710 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769716/w640xh360_GettyImages-686459794.jpg?ts=1739151710 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769716/w768xh432_GettyImages-686459794.jpg?ts=1739151710 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769716/w1080xh607_GettyImages-686459794.jpg?ts=1739151710 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> ODD ANDERSEN / AFP / Getty</figcaption></figure>Point somehow remains one of the NHL's most underrated players. The Tampa Bay Lightning forward routinely puts up big numbers and posted a 51-goal, 95-point season in 2022-23, followed immediately by 46 and 90. He continues to thrive even after Steven Stamkos' departure to Nashville and clinched the fifth 30-goal campaign of his nine-year career Saturday night.The Calgary-born center has played for Canada a half-dozen times. He helped the nation win gold at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup in 2013 and the World Junior Championship in 2015. Point also buried four goals in 10 games when Canada won silver at the World Championship in 2017.<h3>8. Sam Reinhart 🇨🇦</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769881/cropped_GettyImages-461090794.jpg?ts=1739232748" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769881/w220xh124_GettyImages-461090794.jpg?ts=1739232748 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769881/w320xh180_GettyImages-461090794.jpg?ts=1739232748 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769881/w640xh360_GettyImages-461090794.jpg?ts=1739232748 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769881/w768xh432_GettyImages-461090794.jpg?ts=1739232748 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769881/w1080xh607_GettyImages-461090794.jpg?ts=1739232748 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Claus Andersen / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Reinhart exploded for 57 goals and 94 points last season after posting a pair of 30-plus-goal campaigns. He's on pace for 45 tallies in 2024-25, and he's relying much less on power-play goals than he did for his career-high output in 2023-24. The Florida Panthers forward benefits from playing alongside Aleksander Barkov, but the Canadian clearly possesses plenty of talent.Reinhart is the oldest player on this list at 29, but he wasn't chosen for the 2016 World Cup as a 20-year-old. He had just begun his career with the Buffalo Sabres. The British Columbia-born winger does, however, have a decorated history of representing Canada. He's won five medals, including gold at the Under-18 World Championship, the world juniors, and the World Championship.<h3>7. Zach Werenski 🇺🇸</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769718/cropped_GettyImages-2154454533.jpg?ts=1739151945" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769718/w220xh124_GettyImages-2154454533.jpg?ts=1739151945 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769718/w320xh180_GettyImages-2154454533.jpg?ts=1739151945 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769718/w640xh360_GettyImages-2154454533.jpg?ts=1739151945 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769718/w768xh432_GettyImages-2154454533.jpg?ts=1739151945 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769718/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2154454533.jpg?ts=1739151945 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> RvS.Media/Monika Majer / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Werenski often gets overlooked in discussions of the league's most valuable players, but the Columbus Blue Jackets rearguard has been <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3198688" href="https://thescore.com/news/3198688">one of the best</a> at his position in 2024-25. He has already surpassed the career-high point total he established last season with 59 in 55 games, and he leads all Columbus skaters in assists and points in this campaign.The 27-year-old suited up for the United States in five previous events, including two World Junior Championships and two go-arounds at the Worlds.<h3>6. William Nylander 🇸🇪</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769719/cropped_GettyImages-1145220760.jpg?ts=1739152149" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769719/w220xh124_GettyImages-1145220760.jpg?ts=1739152149 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769719/w320xh180_GettyImages-1145220760.jpg?ts=1739152149 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769719/w640xh360_GettyImages-1145220760.jpg?ts=1739152149 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769719/w768xh432_GettyImages-1145220760.jpg?ts=1739152149 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769719/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1145220760.jpg?ts=1739152149 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> RvS.Media/Robert Hradil / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Nylander has been potent in recent years. He racked up precisely 40 goals in both of the previous two NHL seasons and is on pace for 49 in 2024-25 while posting a point per game. The Maple Leafs forward, who turns 29 on May 1, notched a personal-best 98 points in the last campaign and has excelled in the playoffs despite his team's postseason woes.The Canadian-born Swede has only ever played for the Tre Kronor, and he's done it in eight previous tournaments. He notched 12 goals and 20 assists in 18 contests over two World Championships, and he helped Sweden win gold at the event in 2017. However, he hasn't played internationally since the 2019 Worlds.<h3>5. Kyle Connor 🇺🇸</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769720/cropped_GettyImages-533412508.jpg?ts=1739152346" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769720/w220xh124_GettyImages-533412508.jpg?ts=1739152346 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769720/w320xh180_GettyImages-533412508.jpg?ts=1739152346 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769720/w640xh360_GettyImages-533412508.jpg?ts=1739152346 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769720/w768xh432_GettyImages-533412508.jpg?ts=1739152346 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769720/w1080xh607_GettyImages-533412508.jpg?ts=1739152346 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Anna Sergeeva / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Connor has been even more consistent than Nylander. The Winnipeg Jets winger has collected at least 30 tallies in all of his seven full NHL seasons, along with a 26-goal effort while playing all 56 games in the abbreviated 2021 campaign.The 28-year-old American has buried at least 30 goals in three straight seasons, including the current one, after racking up 47 in 2021-22. Connor also logs heavy minutes. He averaged more than 20 minutes of ice time in three of his eight previous campaigns and is doing so again in 2024-25. Internationally, he helped the USA win gold at the Under-18 Worlds in 2014 and represented his country at the World Championship two years later.<h3>4. Matthew Tkachuk 🇺🇸</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769721/cropped_GettyImages-503004390.jpg?ts=1739152538" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769721/w220xh124_GettyImages-503004390.jpg?ts=1739152538 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769721/w320xh180_GettyImages-503004390.jpg?ts=1739152538 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769721/w640xh360_GettyImages-503004390.jpg?ts=1739152538 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769721/w768xh432_GettyImages-503004390.jpg?ts=1739152538 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769721/w1080xh607_GettyImages-503004390.jpg?ts=1739152538 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> RONI REKOMAA / AFP / Getty</figcaption></figure>Tkachuk authored back-to-back seasons of at least 40 goals and 100 points in 2021-22 and 2022-23 and finished third in MVP voting in the latter campaign. He's in the midst of what would be his fourth straight point-per-game season, but Tkachuk's contributions are about far more than offensive numbers. The 27-year-old provides an unparalleled combination of skill and snarl, with an uncanny ability to get under his opponents' skin.He delivers in the playoffs, too. Tkachuk posted 22 points, including six goals, across 24 games while helping the Panthers win the Stanley Cup last season, and he registered 24 points over 20 games during their run to the final one year earlier. The gritty forward has played for the U.S. in three international tournaments, winning gold at the Under-18 Worlds in 2015. He last wore the Red, White, and Blue while claiming bronze at the world juniors one year later.<h3>3. Jack Hughes 🇺🇸</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769722/cropped_GettyImages-1145678480.jpg?ts=1739152710" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769722/w220xh124_GettyImages-1145678480.jpg?ts=1739152710 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769722/w320xh180_GettyImages-1145678480.jpg?ts=1739152710 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769722/w640xh360_GettyImages-1145678480.jpg?ts=1739152710 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769722/w768xh432_GettyImages-1145678480.jpg?ts=1739152710 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769722/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1145678480.jpg?ts=1739152710 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> RvS.Media/Monika Majer / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Hughes was only 15 years old during the World Cup of Hockey in 2016, so it's by no fault of his own that the youngest player on this list has never played in a tourney like the 4 Nations Face-Off. The New Jersey Devils center set a franchise record with 99 points in 78 games as a 21-year-old in 2022-23 and produced at a 98-point pace the following season with 74 in 62 contests. He's nearly matching that rate in 2024-25.Despite being too young for previous best-on-best competition, Hughes has represented the U.S. a handful of times. He was named MVP of the Under-18 Worlds in 2018 and broke Alex Ovechkin's goal-scoring record in the same tourney one year later. Hughes also became the youngest player to suit up for Team USA at the World Championship when he began the event as a 17-year-old just days before his 18th birthday in May 2019.<h3>2. Mikko Rantanen 🇫🇮</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769723/cropped_GettyImages-957741956.jpg?ts=1739152849" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769723/w220xh124_GettyImages-957741956.jpg?ts=1739152849 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769723/w320xh180_GettyImages-957741956.jpg?ts=1739152849 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769723/w640xh360_GettyImages-957741956.jpg?ts=1739152849 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769723/w768xh432_GettyImages-957741956.jpg?ts=1739152849 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769723/w1080xh607_GettyImages-957741956.jpg?ts=1739152849 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Martin Rose / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Don't be fooled by Rantanen's struggles with the Carolina Hurricanes. The Finnish winger was caught off guard when the Colorado Avalanche sent him east in a late-January blockbuster, and he's also been dealing with an injury. Rantanen remains one of the best playmakers in the world and boasts a sterling track record. He's coming off back-to-back seasons with over 100 points, and he's on pace to approach triple digits in 2024-25 despite his early woes with the Canes.This will be Rantanen's 10th time representing Finland, which is pretty impressive for a 28-year-old. He's played in the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge, the Hlinka-Gretzky Cup, the Under-18 World Championship, as well as two trips to the world juniors and four World Championships.<h3>1. Cale Makar 🇨🇦</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769724/cropped_GettyImages-901361844.jpg?ts=1739153076" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769724/w220xh124_GettyImages-901361844.jpg?ts=1739153076 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769724/w320xh180_GettyImages-901361844.jpg?ts=1739153076 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769724/w640xh360_GettyImages-901361844.jpg?ts=1739153076 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769724/w768xh432_GettyImages-901361844.jpg?ts=1739153076 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769724/w1080xh607_GettyImages-901361844.jpg?ts=1739153076 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Nicholas T. LoVerde / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Makar isn't just one of the league's best defensemen. He's been one of the NHL's best players, period, since he arrived in 2019-20. The 26-year-old Avalanche dynamo has a Calder Trophy, a Norris Trophy, and a Stanley Cup ring. He's been a finalist for the Norris in four of his previous five seasons and will surely finish in the top two for the honor this spring.Makar has amassed arcade-like offensive numbers for a player at his position and set career highs with 69 assists and 90 points last season. The Calgary-born blue-liner also perennially shoulders a heavy workload. He's averaged nearly 25 minutes of ice time in his career and almost 26 minutes so far in 2024-25.The Colorado rearguard has only played for Canada at one major tournament aside from a pair of stints with the Canada West squad at the World Junior A Challenge. Makar helped his country take home gold at the 2018 World Junior Championship. Hockey Canada <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/DarrenDreger/status/951190953787822080">reportedly</a> invited the then-UMass phenom to play in the Olympics about a month later, but he declined.

DENVER, COLORADO - JANUARY 22: Cale Makar #8 of the Colorado Avalanche shoots while Kyle Connor #81 of the Winnipeg Jets defends at Ball Arena on January 22, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.

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Ranking the top 10 players making best-on-best debuts at 4 Nations

Calgary Flames defenseman MacKenzie Weegar acknowledged his club blew an opportunity to pick up a...

Calgary Flames defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3222" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3222">MacKenzie Weegar</a> acknowledged his club blew an opportunity to pick up a win on home ice Saturday night.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10775" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10775">Matty Beniers</a> scored the overtime winner in a 3-2 victory for the Seattle Kraken after the visitors overcame a two-goal deficit in the third period."We pissed that one away," Weegar said, according to <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/WesGilbertson/status/1888469029859496150">Postmedia's Wes Gilbertson</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Weegar wasn't satisfied with earning a single point."I felt like, to even get one there, it doesn't matter," he <a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/WesGilbertson/status/1888469972487409930">said</a>. "There was two points there for us to take and we didn't get it."<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6435" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6435">Morgan Frost</a> opened the scoring for Calgary early in the second period, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1182" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1182">Nazem Kadri</a> padded the lead less than seven minutes into the third. Shane Wright got the Kraken on the board with 6:48 to go in regulation, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3074" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3074">Andre Burakovsky</a> tied it with 4:41 remaining. Beniers then ended it 2:58 into the extra frame.The Flames outshot the Kraken 29-28 in the game and 13-5 in the second stanza, but the Kraken held a 12-7 advantage in the third.Seattle snapped a three-game losing streak with the victory, while Calgary dropped its third straight game and fourth in its last five. Both teams are now off until after the 4 Nations Face-Off, which runs through Feb. 20.

CALGARY, CANADA - FEBRUARY 04: MacKenzie Weegar #52 of the Calgary Flames prepares for a face-off against the Toronto Maple Leafs at the Scotiabank Saddledome on February 04, 2025, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

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Flames' Weegar: 'We pissed that one away' in late collapse to Kraken

Drew Doughty is getting his wish: He'll play for Canada in place of Alex Pietrangelo at the upcom...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/560" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/560">Drew Doughty</a> is getting his wish: He'll play for Canada in place of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1098" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1098">Alex Pietrangelo</a> at the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off, the Los Angeles Kings announced Saturday night.In late January, Doughty <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3202107" href="https://thescore.com/news/3202107">expressed</a> a desire to play in the tournament rather than take time off during the pause in the NHL schedule."I'm still hoping I have that outside chance to play in 4 Nations," the Kings defenseman said at the time. "I don't want to break, I want to play. So, we'll see what happens."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Doughty was left off Canada's roster, which was originally revealed Dec. 4. However, he had been out all season at that point after breaking his ankle in training camp.The 35-year-old made his season debut Jan. 29. He came into Saturday's game against the Anaheim Ducks having averaged 26:07 of ice time in five prior contests. Doughty has represented Canada at the Olympics in 2010 and 2014, as well as the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, the most recent best-on-best event.Pietrangelo was ruled out of the 4 Nations Face-Off on Jan. 26. The Vegas Golden Knights said Pietrangelo would be tending to an injury and wanted to be ready for the rest of the regular season. He then played hours later and hasn't missed a game since.

LOS ANGELES, CA - FEBRUARY 7: Drew Doughty #8 of the Los Angeles Kings smiles during warm ups prior to the game against the Dallas Stars at Crypto.com Arena on February 7, 2025 in Los Angeles, California.

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Doughty replaces Pietrangelo for Canada at 4 Nations Face-Off

Jennifer Gardiner scored her first national team goal with 6:44 to go in the third period to lift...

Jennifer Gardiner scored her first national team goal with 6:44 to go in the third period to lift Canada over the United States 3-1 in the decisive Game 5 of the Rivalry Series in Summerside, Prince Edward Island on Saturday night.Laura Stacey added an empty-netter with 1:19 remaining.The Americans tied it on Kelly Pannek's tally just over three minutes into the final frame. Canada's Brianne Jenner opened the scoring less than seven minutes into the second period.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Danielle Serdachny chipped in a pair of primary assists for Canada on the goals by Jenner and Gardiner.Canadian goaltender Emerance Maschmeyer made 28 saves in the victory. Her American counterpart, Aerin Frankel, stopped 40 shots in defeat.The U.S. forced Game 5 with a 2-1 shootout win in Halifax on Thursday night. The Americans won Game 1 in San Jose by a 7-2 margin on Nov. 6. Canada took the next two contests by way of a 5-4 shootout victory in Salt Lake City two days later and a 4-1 result in Boise, Idaho on Nov. 10.

LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 19: Emerance Maschmeyer #38 of Team Canada protects the goal during the third period against the Team United States during a Rivalry Series game at Crypto.com Arena on December 19, 2022 in Los Angeles, California.

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Canada defeats U.S. in Game 5 to win Rivalry Series

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Josh Gold-Smith

Senior News Editor

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