Canada’s Cale Makar: A Game-Time Decision Against USA
In the world of hockey, few matchups are as eagerly anticipated as a face-off between Canada and the United States. This Saturday night, the two powerhouses will clash at the 4 Nations Face-Off, and all eyes are on Canada’s top defenseman, Cale Makar. However, Makar’s participation in the game remains uncertain, as he is battling an illness that kept him out of Friday’s practice.
Despite missing practice, Makar was back on the ice for Saturday’s morning skate. Canadian coach Jon Cooper, however, has not yet confirmed Makar’s status for the game. “I’m not going to confirm [Makar is in],” said Cooper. “He’ll be a game-time decision. But trust me, this won’t be a decision where we ever put him in harm’s way. So, if he’s in the lineup, he’s good to go.”
The Canadian blueline is already feeling the pressure after Shea Theodore suffered an upper-body injury in their tournament opener against Sweden on Wednesday. Makar stepped up significantly in that game, logging a team-high 28:06 TOI after Theodore’s exit in the second period. With Theodore out, Canada is down to just six healthy defensemen, and Makar’s illness adds another layer of complexity to their lineup decisions.
In light of these challenges, the NHL and NHLPA have agreed to allow Canada to bring in Thomas Harley from the Dallas Stars as a standby option. Harley’s presence in Montreal is a precautionary measure, and he would only be allowed to skate if Makar is unable to play. During Saturday’s session, Harley watched from a hallway, joining the team only after Makar left the ice, which was met with cheers from his fellow players.
While Makar’s availability is still up in the air, Coach Cooper has confirmed that Jordan Binnington will be back in net for Canada against the USA. Binnington’s performance against Sweden, where he recorded 23 saves and an .885 SV, was enough to earn him another start. Cooper praised Binnington’s efforts, particularly his four-save performance in overtime, saying, “He gave us a chance to win; watch the overtime. That said it all for me. At the biggest moment of the game, the kid came up huge for us. He deserves it.”
- Canada vs. USA: A classic hockey rivalry.
- Cale Makar’s health is a key concern.
- Shea Theodore’s injury adds pressure to Canada’s defense.
- Thomas Harley on standby for Canada.
- Jordan Binnington confirmed as starting goalie.
As the clock ticks down to the much-anticipated game, fans and analysts alike are speculating on the impact Makar’s presence—or absence—will have on the ice. The Tkachuk brothers, Matthew and Brady, are expected to play pivotal roles for the USA, as highlighted by P.K. Subban in his analysis of the matchup. The game promises to be a thrilling display of skill and strategy, with both teams eager to assert their dominance on the international stage.
Catch the action live on ABC at 8 p.m. ET, and stay tuned for what promises to be an unforgettable showdown between two of hockey’s greatest rivals.
Originally Written by: Kristen Shilton
