The NHL Trade Deadline is fast approaching, with the Dallas Stars and Vegas Golden Knights positioned as key players in the Western Conference. Both teams are grappling with significant injuries on their defensive lines. Vegas recently suffered a blow with Shea Theodore potentially out for the rest of the season due to injury while playing for Team Canada. Meanwhile, the Stars are dealing with Tyler Seguin's hip surgery and Miro Heiskanen's knee issues, making their statuses uncertain.

As both teams have ample cap space, they're likely to be active in the trade market. The Golden Knights, led by GM Kelly McCrimmon, have already made moves by signing Brandon Saad and are actively seeking forward depth. Similarly, Stars GM Jim Nill has acquired Cody Ceci and Mikael Granlund, but both teams are eyeing further acquisitions, with Mikko Rantanen's name surfacing as a potential target for both squads due to LTIR considerations.

Cale Makar, a key defenseman for the Colorado Avalanche, will miss the highly anticipated 4 Nations Face-Off game between Canada and the United States due to illness. This marks a significant absence for the Canadian team, which is already without Alex Pietrangelo due to injury and Shea Theodore, who was hurt during a previous match. In Makar's place, Thomas Harley of the Dallas Stars will step into the lineup. The Canadians face a challenge as they navigate through these defensive setbacks in a critical match.

Cale Makar's status for Canada's upcoming clash against the United States remains uncertain, with the top defenseman battling an illness. He missed Friday's practice but returned for Saturday's morning skate. Coach Jon Cooper emphasized that Makar's health is the priority, stating they will not put him at risk.

The Canadian blueline has already been impacted by Shea Theodore's upper-body injury from the tournament opener against Sweden. Makar stepped up significantly in that game, logging over 28 minutes of ice time following Theodore's exit. In light of Makar's situation, the NHL has allowed the Dallas Stars' Thomas Harley to be on standby in case he cannot play. Despite the uncertainties, Canada plans to start Jordan Binnington in goal once again, after he made critical saves in their previous match.

Kevin Lankinen will be the starting goaltender for Team Finland in the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off against Sweden following Juuse Saros' disappointing performance against the United States. Saros, who has struggled with the Nashville Predators, had a rough start allowing six goals on 32 shots in a 6-1 loss. Coach Antti Pennanen emphasized the need for adjustments, praising Lankinen's recent performance.

The Canadian team anticipates the return of top defenseman Cale Makar, who missed practice due to illness, as they prepare to face the U.S. on Saturday night. Canada is already facing roster challenges with Shea Theodore out due to injury. Meanwhile, U.S. coach Mike Sullivan is keeping his options open regarding any potential lineup changes after a strong victory over Finland.

Injuries and illness are challenging Team Canada's defensive lineup as they prepare for a crucial game against the USA at the 4 Nations Face-Off. Star defenseman Cale Makar missed practice due to illness, casting doubt on his participation in the upcoming match, especially after the team lost Shea Theodore to injury. Coach Jon Cooper remains hopeful about Makar's recovery, though a contingency plan involving Thomas Harley from the Dallas Stars has been activated.

On the offensive side, Cooper has opted to insert Sam Bennett into the lineup for added physicality against the USA, who recently demonstrated a heavy hitting strategy in their win over Finland. This change not only bolsters Canada's physical presence but also sets the stage for an intriguing matchup between Bennett and his Florida Panthers teammate, Matthew Tkachuk. As the teams gear up for a showdown, the stakes are high, and the outcome will hinge on how effectively Canada can adapt to its evolving lineup.