Major Update on Auston Matthews and Matthew Tkachuk Ahead of 4 Nations Final Game, per Insider
Team USA got a huge boost ahead of their 4 Nations Finals vs. Team Canada as both Auston Matthews and Matthew Tkachuk were seen skating at practice.
There was a lot of concern regarding Auston Matthews and Matthew Tkachuk's status for Team USA heading into the 4 Nations Faceoff Finals against Team Canada in one of the most highly anticipated games in recent memory.
But it seems that American fans can breathe a sigh of relief as the two were seen skating ahead of Thursday's finale; a huge boost to the USA's chances against a hungry Canadian team out for revenge.
The two sat out Monday's game against Sweden as a precaution and coach Mike Sullivan was confident that Matthews was going to be alright. Tkachuk himself declared he was fine as well, just a bit sore and wouldn't want to risk further injury.
So what can we expect from a returning Matthews and Tkachuk?
Team USA Gets Reinforcements Back At Critical Time
Well, first and foremost, expect Tkachuk to come out with even more fire than the first time these two met, and while we may not see three fights in nine seconds, it'll be a heated clash nonetheless.
It's not just his toughness that's been missed, but Tkachuk has been a solid contributor for the Americans with three points in two games.
Alongside his brother Brady, the two have been a spark plug for US team which has been carried by Norris Trophy candidate Zach Werenski and Vezina Trophy candidate Connor Hellebuyck.
Auston Matthews has been quieter this tournament, with one assist in two games, but his return will no doubt be impactful even if he doesn't find the scoresheet.
His return is also a big sigh of relief for Maple Leafs fans as another injury to their captain after two already would put their playoff hopes in a really awkward spot.
Canada lost 3-1 to the States the first time round are hellbent on looking for revenge. They established the pace early against Finland but needed to hold on to win 5-3.
They can't afford to take their foot off the gas against the Americans and the new revamped lines that Jon Cooper put out for Canada need to be at their very best or it'll be a repeat of game two of the tournament.
The 4 Nations Face-Off Finals takes place on Thursday, Feb. 20 from TD Garden in Boston. The scheduled start time is 8PM ET.
