USA and Canada Set for Epic 4 Nations Face-Off Final
Hockey fans, brace yourselves for what promises to be an electrifying showdown as the 4 Nations Face-Off final is set to take place. The stage is set for a thrilling rematch between two of the sport’s fiercest rivals: Canada and the United States. After a 5-3 win over Finland, Canada has secured its spot in the championship game, where it will face the United States, who clinched their place with a 3-1 victory over Canada on Saturday.
The anticipation is palpable, especially after the first encounter between these North American powerhouses, which was nothing short of a spectacle. That game, marked by three fights in the first nine seconds, was described by many players as one of the most intense games of their careers. As we gear up for the final game of the inaugural 4 Nations Face-Off (Thursday 8 p.m. ET, ESPN/ESPN+/Disney+), let’s delve into the key players, X factors, and goaltending confidence for each team.
United States
What we’ve learned so far
Team USA has shown its mettle in various ways throughout the tournament. Against Finland, they demonstrated their ability to thrive in a tight-checking game, only to unleash an offensive surge with three goals on their first four shots in the third period. Their performance against Canada further highlighted their ability to capitalize on mistakes and withstand late-game pressure.
Team MVP through round robin
Jaccob Slavin. While the Tkachuk brothers, Brady and Matthew, have been instrumental, Slavin’s role has been pivotal, especially with Matthew missing a game due to injury and Brady leaving early in another. Slavin’s average ice time of over 23 minutes per game and his leadership on a perfect penalty kill have been crucial to the team’s success.
X factor: Special teams
Special teams have been a significant factor, with the U.S. scoring two of the tournament’s four power-play goals on five chances. This success comes despite the absence of Quinn Hughes, a top power-play quarterback. Their penalty kill has been equally impressive, going 4-for-4 through two games.
Goalie confidence: (9.5/10)
Connor Hellebuyck has been a rock in goal, allowing just two goals in two games. His performance has been stellar, making crucial saves that left Finland and Canada frustrated. Hellebuyck’s consistency is a key asset for the U.S. as they head into the final.
Canada
What we’ve learned so far
Canada has had its ups and downs, often being its own worst enemy in the round robin. However, their recent game against Finland showed a newfound confidence, driven by their star players. While Connor McDavid and Nathan MacKinnon are crucial, Canada needs contributions from its role players like Sam Bennett and the Mitch Marner–Anthony Cirelli connection.
Team MVP through round robin
Connor McDavid. While Sidney Crosby leads in points and has been praised by coach Jon Cooper, McDavid’s impact is undeniable. He has scored the opening goal in the last two games and was instrumental in the win over Finland. McDavid’s ability to elevate his game is crucial for Canada’s confidence heading into the final.
X factor: Scoring depth
Canada’s scoring has primarily come from its top lines, but they need more from their depth players. The U.S. has shown the importance of role players, and Canada must do the same. The outcome may hinge on which team’s third and fourth lines step up, and how coach Cooper manages ice time will be telling.
Goalie confidence: (7.5/10)
Jordan Binnington has been a polarizing figure, with mixed performances and stats (.892 save percentage, 2.60 goals-against average). However, he showed promise against Finland, and Cooper’s faith in him remains strong. Binnington needs to deliver a complete performance in the final, especially if Canada struggles offensively.
Originally Written by: Ryan S. Clark,Kristen Shilton
