Canada's Makar a Game-Time Decision vs. USA

Cale Makar, a key defenseman for Team Canada, was ruled out for the highly anticipated 4 Nations Face-Off game against the United States due to an illness. Despite participating in Saturday's morning skate, Makar's absence creates a significant gap in Canada's defensive lineup, especially after losing Shea Theodore to injury in an earlier match. Head coach Jon Cooper confirmed Travis Sanheim will replace Theodore, while Thomas Harley is on standby to fill in for Makar. Canada is coming off a narrow 4-3 overtime win against Sweden, while the U.S. dominated Finland 6-1 in their previous game. Goalie Jordan Binnington will start for Canada after a mixed performance in the last match, with Cooper expressing confidence in his ability to lead the team. The tournament continues with upcoming round-robin games in Boston next week.