Canada and the United States are set to clash in a high-stakes matchup at the 4 Nations Face-Off, a game charged with intensity and national pride. Veteran players like Drew Doughty and Dylan Larkin have expressed their excitement, noting the rivalry's historical significance. Canada will adjust its lineup, replacing injured Shea Theodore with Travis Sanheim and inserting Sam Bennett to add physicality. The atmosphere promises to be electric, especially in Montreal, where Canadian fans are expected to rally behind their team. Both sides aim for victory, as the top two teams will advance to the finals in Boston. With tensions high and stakes even higher, this showdown could be one for the ages.

Sidney Crosby, at 37, continues to shine as one of the premier players globally, especially noticeable during the Four Nations Faceoff where he recorded three primary assists, including the game-winning play. Teammates and coaches alike praised his performance, highlighting his ability to elevate his game in crucial moments. Drew Doughty remarked on Crosby's undeniable impact, calling him the best player on the ice. With no signs of slowing down, Crosby's contributions are pivotal for Team Canada, reinforcing his legacy as potentially the greatest Canadian player ever.

Crosby's international record is staggering, boasting a perfect 26-0 in his last 26 games wearing the Canadian jersey, with a remarkable +85 goal differential. His career is dotted with iconic moments, such as the Golden Goal at the 2010 Olympics, cementing his status among legends. The Bell Centre crowd demonstrated immense admiration for him, underscoring his significance to the sport and the Canadian hockey narrative.

Drew Doughty has emerged as the frontrunner to replace Alex Pietrangelo on Team Canada for the Four Nations Faceoff after recovering from a significant ankle injury. Despite missing 47 games this season, Doughty's determination to join the national team has been evident. In his six games back, he averaged over 27 minutes of ice time, peaking at 31 minutes against the Anaheim Ducks, showcasing his readiness to compete at an elite level.

Having previously won gold medals at the Olympics and the World Cup of Hockey, Doughty expressed immense pride and excitement at the opportunity to represent Canada again. His extensive experience and skill make him a strong asset as Team Canada prepares to face Sweden. Doughty aims to cement his role in the top defensive pair alongside Shea Theodore, adding depth and championship experience to the national lineup.

The 4 Nations Face-Off tournament is seeing some changes as Quinn Hughes, the reigning Norris Trophy winner, withdraws due to injury, allowing Jake Sanderson to step into the spotlight. Sanderson, only 22, takes Hughes' place and reunites with former teammate Brock Faber. Both players are now in a position to potentially compete in the Winter Olympics back-to-back.

While the U.S. mourns the loss of the Hughes brothers, Jack Hughes remains hopeful for Quinn's recovery as the Vancouver Canucks captain focuses on future performance. Meanwhile, Finland is grappling with its own loss, Miro Heiskanen, who is sidelined month-to-month, testing the team's defensive depth.

On the Canadian front, Drew Doughty, recovering from an injury, eagerly joins the national team while Linus Ullmark of Sweden is back from his own injury concerns, aiming to help his squad. As these teams adapt, the competition promises to be fierce.

Canada's national ice hockey team has bolstered its roster for the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off by adding Drew Doughty, following Alex Pietrangelo's withdrawal due to injury. Doughty, who has recently returned from a leg injury, has played six games this season, collecting one assist and averaging nearly 27 minutes of ice time per game.

Concerns linger over team captain Sidney Crosby, who is recovering from an upper-body injury and has missed the last two games for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Crosby's potential absence would be a significant blow, as he is a key player for Canada's international efforts. The Penguins have left the decision of his participation to him, with the first practice scheduled for Monday.

If Crosby is unable to play, Mark Scheifele is expected to step in as his replacement. Canada is faced with injury uncertainties as many teams prepare for the tournament, highlighting the challenges of assembling a competitive lineup at the last minute.