***UPDATE – CALE MAKAR WILL BE PLAYING IN THE 4 NATIONS FACE-OFF MATCH FOR TEAM CANADA***

Team Canada finds itself in a challenging situation during the 4 Nations Face-Off. Every chance on the ice is crucial for them in the matchup against Team Finland today, but they cannot allow for an overtime outcome or a loss in regulation, as they might miss out on their potential rematch with Team USA in the championship game. However, the Canadian squad is missing a significant number of hockey players from the main roster.

A recent update regarding one of their star players, who has been sidelined due to illness, may raise concerns among fans. While heading to X, NHL reporter Elliotte Friedman emphasized the message conveyed by the coach, stating, “Team Canada coach Jon Cooper didn’t say much about Cale Makar. Did say Travis Konecny could come in for Seth Jarvis…but not 100 per cent.” 

Makar played a crucial role in the main roster, and his absence in the game against the United States significantly affected the outcome. Indeed, the Canadian team faced a disappointing defeat against the Americans, ending the match 3-1, leaving the home fans heartbroken.

Lack of updates on Makar’s situation is bound to fuel further speculation. In addition to that, the matchup against Finland holds significant importance for Team Canada, and supporters are eager to witness the return of one of their premier defensemen to the lineup.

Setting Makar aside, who will take Seth Jarvis’s place? Travis Konecny is the name in focus. The right winger for the Philadelphia Flyers has emerged as a standout player on the team during the ongoing NHL season. His statistics? In 57 games, the forward has achieved 22 goals and provided 39 assists, accumulating a total of 61 points.

Konecny appears to be a committed player that Team Canada could benefit from. According to the latest updates, Makar will be included in the squad for the match against Finland.

UPDATE: Cale Makar is heading back to the hockey rink

Team Canada has captured the attention of numerous hockey enthusiasts, thanks to its impressive roster of talented players. However, who ranks at the top of this list? Clearly, the leadership roles are held by the captain and the alternate captains, namely Sidney Crosby (C) and Connor McDavid (A), along with Cale Makar (A), respectively.

Following Sweden’s match against Canada, the Colorado Avalanche player was notably missing from the roster, having fallen ill with the flu. However, Jon Cooper believed in his player. What did he say? “Expect is a big word, but I’m confident. I’m confident he’ll be there,” said the coach. However, Cale Makar was absent from the roster during the Team USA game. This only heightened concerns following the Canadian team’s defeat in the match.

The stakes were too high for fans to gamble on the final game against Finland, making Makar an essential presence. Were the prayers answered? Indeed. Despite the concerns raised, Makar successfully returned to the squad, taking the place of Thomas Harley. Although he plays as a defenseman, his NHL statistics resemble those of a forward. What is the reason for that?

Through 57 appearances with the Avs, Makar has scored 22 goals, provided 41 assists, and tallied a total of 63 points. With his return, Team Canada stands a better chance of overcoming Suomi and advancing to the championship round for a rematch with the USA.