NHL Rumors: Hughes, Team USA, McAvoy, Bruins, 4 Nations – The Hockey Writers NHL Rumors Latest News, Analysis & More

With the 4 Nations Face-Off Final just hours away, Team USA is making final roster preparations as they get set for a highly anticipated rematch against Team Canada. While stars like Auston Matthews and Matthew Tkachuk participated in practice, Brady Tkachuk’s absence due to injury has left some uncertainty about his availability. Meanwhile, defenseman Charlie McAvoy remains hospitalized, and Quinn Hughes’ status remains unclear.

Brady Tkachuk Sits Out Practice, Status Uncertain

Matthew Tkachuk and Auston Matthews were both present at Team USA’s Wednesday practice, but Brady Tkachuk was notably absent. The Ottawa Senators captain is dealing with a lower-body injury suffered in the semifinal against Sweden, though reports suggest his absence is precautionary.

Brady is expected to suit up for the final, but that has not been confirmed. His presence is important, given his physical style of play and ability to contribute offensively. A final decision/announcement may not come until closer to puck drop.

Kyle Connor Expected to Step Up

With Brady Tkachuk missing from practice, Winnipeg Jets forward Kyle Connor wore a white jersey, typically designated for top-six forwards. Connor started the tournament on Team USA’s first line but was moved down to the fourth line. He has one point in the tournament and has averaged 12:27 per game.

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The team needs him to step up, especially if some of their key forwards wind up missing the game.

Charlie McAvoy Remains Hospitalized

Team USA will be without one of its top defensemen. Charlie McAvoy remains hospitalized with an infection in his right shoulder and a significant AC joint injury. The Boston Bruins confirmed his condition has improved thanks to IV antibiotics, but he will not be available for the final.

McAvoy’s absence is a significant loss for the Americans, given his ability to play big minutes against elite competition. He was one of the standout players in the previous meeting against Canada, making his absence even more impactful. The U.S. will need its remaining defensemen to step up in his absence. As it sits right now, the other six blueliners are good to go.

As for how much time he’ll miss for the Bruins, his status is said to be week to week, but he could miss several weeks of NHL action.

Quinn Hughes’ Status Remains Unclear

Contrary to earlier reports suggesting Quinn Hughes would be joining Team USA in Boston, his situation remains uncertain. ESPN’s Emily Kaplan reported that Hughes has returned to Vancouver and will not make the trip unless he is cleared to play. Team USA general manager Bill Guerin confirmed that they are still working through the logistics of bringing Hughes in as an emergency replacement. The only way he would be eligible to play is if another defenseman is injured or falls ill before the final.

Hughes has been skating during the break and stated, “Bring my best and do what I can. I’m close to where I want to be…I feel pretty good right now.” The likelihood of him playing in Thursday for Team USA remains low.

Team USA Hoping for a High-Profile Guest

In an unexpected twist, Team USA has expressed interest in having former U.S. President Donald Trump attend the final. As much as the action is about 16 years of no international hockey for the players, clearly, this 4 Nations Tournament has had a bit of a political feel to it.

Team USA Hockey GM Bill Guerin wants President Trump in attendance for the #4Nations Championship vs Canada

“We would love it if President Trump was in attendance…. We have a room full of proud American players and coaches and staff and listen, we’re just trying to represent… pic.twitter.com/iforyAeCyP

— Jon Root (@JonnyRoot_) February 18, 2025

GM Bill Guerin addressed the topic, saying, “We would love it if President Trump was in attendance. We have a room full of proud American players and coaches.” Whether Trump will actually attend remains to be seen, but the way fans have reacted during anthems and to the fans of other countries the President in attendance would add dramatic final.