With that aim, MacKinnon secured probably the most targets within the 4 Nations match and was awarded MVP. Going into the break, MacKinnon additionally led the NHL in factors with 87 in 57 video games; he confirmed that not solely has he been the most effective participant within the NHL, however the most effective participant amongst worldwide superstars.
Canada nonetheless tops america in hockey, for now
With a politically charged surroundings, the Canada-United States 4 Nations last was extremely anticipated. Not solely that, however because the U.S. is catching as much as Canada when it comes to NHLers (41% to 29%), many in america have been enthusiastic about arguably the most effective American staff ever.
What took place was the most effective worldwide hockey video games in current reminiscence. The groups have been evenly matched — Canada had 27 photographs, 25 hits and gained 32 faceoffs, whereas the U.S. had 33 photographs, 28 hits and in addition gained 32 faceoffs.
In such a good match, the People confirmed that they’ll cling with the Canadians, and the Canadians confirmed that regardless of their nationwide satisfaction in hockey, the U.S. could also be nearer within the sport than they suppose.
Olympics would be the finest worldwide match but
With such a terrific match that includes 4 elite hockey international locations, the 2026 Olympics, the primary to function NHL expertise since 2014, might be as anticipated as ever.
As NHL gamers received excited for what was, basically, an exhibition match, they’re sure to play laborious for Olympic gold. With stars resembling Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, Jack Eichel, Auston Matthews, William Nylander, Victor Hedman, Aleksander Barkov and Juuse Saros within the 4 Nations Face-Off, and different international locations’ stars like Leon Draisaitl (Germany), David Pastrnak (Czechia) and Nikita Kucherov (Russia) becoming a member of them in 2026, it is positive to be the most effective ever worldwide match produced.