Can you imagine the shock when your team’s backbone suddenly goes down? That’s the reality for Team USA right now. The Boston Bruins confirmed on Monday that star defenseman Charlie McAvoy was admitted to Massachusetts General Hospital for testing for an upper-body injury he sustained during the 4 Nations Face-Off. Team doctor Dr. Peter Asnis is running the tests, and while the full details are still emerging, one thing is for sure: McAvoy won’t be suiting up for Thursday’s final at TD Garden.

McAvoy, a 27-year-old defensive stalwart celebrated for his grit and leadership, played a huge role in helping Team USA notch wins over Finland and Canada during the tournament. His absence was glaring during Monday’s 2-1 loss to Sweden, where every shift felt his missing presence. Without him, the Americans now face a significant setback as they prepare for the final on home ice. The Bruins haven’t clarified when or if McAvoy might return, giving Bruins fans an added layer of anxiety considering their position in the standings.

Team USA is currently facing a challenging situation as they manage minor injury precautions with Auston Matthews and Matthew Tkachuk. Although Quinn Hughes‘ call-up to replace McAvoy may come as some relief to fans of Team USA, his participation in the final is far from guaranteed.

That is, according to the rules, the U.S. would need another defender to go down for Hughes to become eligible. Furthermore, the Canucks captain is nursing an injury of his own to further complicate matters. But as news of McAvoy’s situation spread, the reaction from fans on social media was swift and emotional.

Fans’ response to Charlie McAvoy’s absence

A Canadian fan sympathized with the injury news, demonstrating the kind of player McAvoy is. “Tough blow for Team USA & especially for the Bruins. Hope it is nothing long-term. Even though I’m rooting for Canada & the Leafs, I never want to see an impactful player go down regardless of what team he’s on. Especially one who plays with heart like McAvoy.” This reaction speaks to what a significant presence Charlie McAvoy is on the ice. He contributes not just defensively, but by being a leader whose grit and mentality can make a difference.

Another fan was concerned less about the final and more about the player himself. “Hope it’s nothing too serious! My thoughts and prayers are with CMac! I hope all is well and not a serious injury.” His consistent performances and commitment have been invaluable for Team USA, and his absence will leave a void in the backline that’s going to be hard to fill.

Similarly, a Bruins fan was thinking about the post-tournament impact of his injury. Worst case scenario for #NHLBruins. Hopefully nothing long term. No room for error coming home in a push to squeak into the playoffs.” This tweet demonstrates the apprehension that Bruins fans must be feeling regarding the thought of trying to move up the standings without their star defenseman in an already tight campaign.

Another commenter was more critical of McAvoy, suggesting that his injury was the result of physical play during the match against Canada. “Running McDavid probably wasn’t the best idea.” It’s clear that Canadian fans still have the game on their minds and have not forgiven or forgotten McAvoy’s hit on McDavid.

As Team USA heads to the final without Charlie McAvoy, his absence looms. While Quinn Hughes remains a doubt, the team will have to simply get on with it and do what they can to secure that double victory over Canada. Team USA must band together and overcome this challenge in what will be a high-pressure showdown at TD Garden.