Quinn Hughes is set to join Team USA this week and may be a potential player for the highly anticipated matchup against Canada on Thursday evening. This development comes as U.S. defenseman Charlie McAvoy will miss the final of the 4 Nations Face-Off due to an upper-body injury.
McAvoy, who plays for the Boston Bruins, did not participate in Monday’s loss to Sweden as he is dealing with complications from his injury, including a related infection that necessitated his hospitalization in Boston. The Bruins provided an update stating that McAvoy is currently undergoing evaluation and further testing by their team doctor.
Meanwhile, Hughes, who withdrew from the tournament earlier due to injury, will reunite with the team depending on the status of another player who needs to be ruled out because of injury or illness. NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly confirmed this condition for Hughes’ potential inclusion.
During the round-robin phase, McAvoy was a key contributor, averaging over 19 minutes of ice time across two U.S. victories and making an impactful play during the match against Canada with a notable hit on superstar Connor McDavid.
In addition to McAvoy’s absence, forwards Matthew Tkachuk and Auston Matthews sat out the game against Sweden for precautionary reasons, given that the U.S. had already secured a spot in the final. Furthermore, Brady Tkachuk sustained a lower-body injury early in the matchup but is expected back for Thursday’s game, according to head coach Mike Sullivan, who expressed optimism about the team’s prospects for returning players.
The upcoming game at TD Garden in Boston promises excitement as Team USA prepares to face off against rival Canada with hopes for a strong performance, especially with the potential return of players like Hughes and Tkachuk.
Summary: Quinn Hughes is joining the U.S. team and may play against Canada as Charlie McAvoy will miss the game due to injury-related complications. The team remains hopeful for the return of key players for the final at TD Garden.