
Cale Makar showcased his defensive prowess on Wednesday, achieving three blocked shots and leading all Canadian players with an impressive 28:06 in ice time. He formed a strong defensive pairing with fellow Avalanche teammate Devon Toews and contributed to Canada’s primary power-play unit. In a notable lineup adjustment, Travis Sanheim was sidelined as a healthy scratch against Sweden and was paired with Toews, while Makar was partnered with Drew Doughty.
Unfortunately, Canada will be without Shea Theodore for the remainder of the international tournament due to an upper-body injury. Theodore sustained the injury during a thrilling 4-3 overtime victory against Sweden.
The Vegas Golden Knights defenseman was hurt at 2:33 of the second period following a hit from Sweden’s forward Adrian Kempe, which forced Team Canada to continue the match with only five defensemen.
Newcomer Thomas Harley arrived in Montreal just in time for Saturday’s practice, having joined after Makar had departed the ice. Tournament regulations set by the NHL and NHL Players’ Association prohibited both players from being on the ice simultaneously.
This season, Harley has been impressive with the Dallas Stars, accumulating 29 points (nine goals and 20 assists) over 53 games. Originally from Syracuse, New York, he proudly holds dual citizenship in Canada and the United States.
