When fans got to learn about the NHL’s decision to chuck the All-Star game for 2025, they were right to feel the blues initially. But now, after a couple of dozes of the 4 Nations Face-Off, things seem much brighter than before. The “Landmark International Hockey Tournament” has brought the thrill in a stellar style, and fans can’t wait to see what more it has up its sleeves. However, while the community seems to be in awe by the new direction the NHL is headed with the tournament, others might not be so fortunate to come up with something similar.

Just like the National Hockey League, the NBA is also one of the most popular sports leagues in the country. With stars from all over the world making the league an action-packed watch, basketball fans might not have their own version of the 4 Nations just yet, or that’s what an expert seems to think.

Expert thinks the NHL’s success is off the table for NBA fans

In a YouTube upload by Dan Patrick Show from February 13, the 67-year-old sportscaster narrated his feelings about the NHL’s latest project. When asked if Dan was aware of the ongoing scintillating hockey tournament, he said, “If you’re watching ESPN then you know what is happening and I watch ESPN usually around the horn,” underscoring that he’s also having fun watching the athletes set the ice on fire. “I thought there was true excitement for what is deemed the All-Star weekend. I thought they did a great job. I thought it was fun,” he admitted further.

However, with the show being dedicated mostly to the NBA, it was only a matter of time before the veteran spots commentator expressed his thoughts about hosting something similar to the 4 Nations Face-Off within his beloved sport. He didn’t hesitate to reveal the biggest challenge to make the thought a reality either.

“I know we keep talking about this with the NBA: The United States versus everybody else and the pushback I always get from NBA analysts are that there aren’t enough talented players from around the world to compete with the US team.” It does make sense, though. While Adam Silver’s NBA has benefited immensely from foreign players, especially from Canada and France, organizing a 4 Nations-style tournament in the NBA isn’t going to be child’s play.

The inaugural run already setting the ice on fire

The global distribution of basketball talent doesn’t align neatly into four distinct national teams that could compete at an All-Star level. However, while the NBA continues to come up with something for the fans, the NHL continues its stellar inaugural run with the 4 Nations Face-Off.

If you thought the NHL regular season was mesmerizing, boy, are you in for a wild ride! In these past couple of days, the 4 Nations Face-Off has already shown what it can be. With Canada trumping Sweden 4-3 in overtime, and the USA decimating Finland 6-1 at the Bell Centre in two back-to-back nights, fans can’t wait to see what more treats the NHL has for them.

From players’ health conditions making the teams and the fans anxious to last-minute regulatory changes to give the teams some breathing space and the actual performances on the ice, it has truly been incredible. Team Canada’s suave cool-headed control of the puck, to the Americans going all-in, it’s safe to say that we want the tournament to be back again next year.

The US will face Canada next Saturday. Our neighbors have one of the beefiest rosters in the tournament, and the Bruins Brad Marchand believes they are the top contenders to win the 4 Nations Face-Off this year. But is having a strong side enough? Or can Matt Boldy & Co. show that it takes precise planning and sheer grit to come out victorious? Tell us your thoughts below!