The anticipation surrounding the USA-Canada game at the 4 Nations Face-Off had already reached a fever pitch. But there had also been cause for concern. Canada’s best defenseman looked doubtful, leaving the team’s defense exposed. Both teams had entered the competition undefeated, desperate to claim supremacy, so any error could tip the scales. But just hours before the game, Canada had the news it had so eagerly awaited—an update that could significantly boost their performance during the high-stakes competition.

For the past 24 hours, speculation had surrounded Cale Makar’s availability after the defenseman missed practice due to illness. With Canada already dealing with roster limitations, his absence would have been a massive blow. Head coach Jon Cooper remained cautiously optimistic leading up to the game, stating he was “confident” but stopping short of guaranteeing Makar’s presence.

Note: Just minutes before the puck dropped on 15 February, Team Canada’s NHL insider Elliotte Friedman confirmed some good news for the Canadians. Friedman definitively answered the popular question, ‘Would Cale Makar be in or out?’ and confirmed that Makar would sit out the game against the USA. This puts all speculations to rest and makes Thomas Harley Canada’s ‘D’ man. “Cale Makar is out tonight, Thomas Harley in. Makar is eligible to return later in the tournament.”

After Shea Theodore‘s shoulder injury in Canada’s game against Sweden, the Canadian hockey side were in a flurry of talks with tournament’s regulatory committee to have Harley added on to the team’s reserve. However, the NHL rule markers would only agree for a word of caution to be thrown out to Harley preempting him to expect a call to join the Canadian side any time in the event when Canada falls short of the original 6. While Harley would be flown out to Boston as per the initial plan, the moment has come sooner than expected. And, Canada’s wish, though not the ideal, is granted!

However, just as the game was drawing near, Makar was seen skating, showing that he had indeed returned to play. The move is welcome news for Team Canada, as Makar is arguably the best defenseman Canada has. His offensive contributions and defensive efforts cannot be replicated.

Initially, Canada recalled Dallas Stars defenseman Thomas Harley as an insurance measure if Makar wasn’t going to play. However, according to the terms of the tournament, Harley wasn’t allowed to join team events or even skate unless Makar was out.

But Cale Makar’s return puts Canada in a better position against an aggressive, offense-heavy Team USA. His presence shores up the back line and keeps Canada’s transition play quick—something it will need against the skill and speed of Auston Matthews, Jack Eichel, and Matthew Tkachuk.

Canada’s growing concerns over injuries & the call for depth

While Makar’s return is a huge boost, Canada still has injury concerns that could cause them problems down the road. The team lost one defender, Shea Theodore, for the remainder of the competition due to an injury suffered while playing against Sweden. His absence left Canada with little defensive depth.

Theodore’s injury, coupled with Makar’s, called for a backup plan, so Harley was on standby. But the tough roster restrictions had posed an added problem. A team must fall below 18 able-bodied skaters before it may employ an injury replacement. However, Team Canada managed to find a way through, convincing the NHL and NHLPA to allow them the leeway of bringing Harley to Montreal.

Though Makar seemingly looks ready to play, Canada aren’t going to take any risks with his health. “Trust me, it won’t be a situation … we’ll never put Cale in harm’s way,” Cooper said. “If he is in the lineup, he will be good to go.”

With a physical match against Team USA on the horizon, that concern still persists. The Americans will try early to test Canada’s defense, and if there are any additional injuries, the lack of depth could rear its ugly head.

Makar’s return keeps Canada at full strength heading into their biggest match so far. But the nagging questions over depth only serve to highlight just how vulnerable the team’s position still is. If another defender gets injured, Canada will need to scramble for reinforcements.

Against a Team USA team that relies on speed and tenacity, Canada’s defense will be pushed harder than ever. But with Makar potentially back, they’re well-suited to meet the challenge. This clash isn’t about points—it’s one of bragging rights, momentum, and a chance to lay down the gauntlet for the rest of the tournament. With both sides still undefeated and itching to show the hockey world, the level of passion at Bell Centre will get an added boost. And with Makar driving the team, Canada finally has the assurance they had been looking for to play against their greatest rival in a match that could decide the 4 Nations Face-Off.