Just when Team USA was gearing up for the final showdown at the 4 Nations Face-Off, a sudden twist left them without one of their key players: defenseman Charlie McAvoy. McAvoy had delivered a solid performance against Canada with over 19 minutes of ice time and five hits, including a huge one on Connor McDavid. Fans were hopeful, but the news isn’t all bad—there’s a silver lining ahead, despite McAvoy’s unfortunate exit. 

Emily Kaplan, ESPN hockey reporter posted on X today, “While Charlie McAvoy has been ruled out for Four Nations Final, some good news for Team USA on injury front: I’ve been re-assured both Tkachuk brothers intend on playing Thursday vs Canada.” Talk about a win for Team USA! While Charlie McAvoy will be sidelined, Matthew Tkachuk and Brady Tkachuk will suit up, which is huge for Team USA’s chances.

Charlie McAvoy’s injury came during the event, with the details coming through after Team USA’s 3-1 win against Canada on Saturday. He suffered an upper-body injury and was sent to Massachusetts General Hospital for evaluation and the news broke just days before the final against Canada.

McAvoy had already played in the previous games and delivered a solid performance with over 19 minutes of ice time and five hits, including a huge one on Connor McDavid. That hit? It sent McDavid straight into the glass, dropping him to the ice. The moment flipped the momentum, leading to Jake Guentzel’s tying goal against Canada. Massive impact.

McAvoy’s presence didn’t go unnoticed. Top-line forward Matthew Tkachuk called him one of Team USA’s best players in that game. “That also is a message-sending moment — probably one of the plays of the game,” Tkachuk said. “They just scored a goal, the building was rocking, and Charlie comes there and pops McDavid, like one of the hardest hits I’ve seen.” His defensive partner Zach Werenski backed it up, calling the hit a game-changer.

No McAvoy. But here comes Quinn Hughes

Team USA wasted no time finding a replacement for Charlie McAvoy, and they’ve landed on a star: Quinn Hughes. The Vancouver Canucks captain and reigning Norris Trophy winner is officially joining the roster for the championship game against Canada.

Charlie McAvoy’s absence is a big blow for Team USA from the blue line, though Quinn Hughes’ elite offensive instincts and skill on skates may tip the balance in favor of the Americans. This season, Hughes leads all Canucks players with 59 points in 47 games, proving he is among the best in the game.

Hughes had originally been left off the 4 Nations roster but now steps in as the emergency replacement. Head coach Mike Sullivan confirmed the addition but remained noncommittal on whether Hughes will suit up for the final. Meanwhile, Elliotte Friedman noted that Hughes can only play if another USA defenseman is ruled out before the puck drops.

Even if he doesn’t hit the ice, his presence alone is a boost and advantage for the USA. McAvoy’s loss is significant, but Team USA is getting reinforcements—just not the way anyone expected. Let’s see how Thursday’s match unfolds, everyone has their eyes fixed on the same! What do you think? Drop your thoughts in the comment box below!