We're less than one week away from the start of the 4 Nations Face-Off and Team USA fans are anxiously waiting for an update on Vancouver Canucks captain Quinn Hughes.
Quinn Hughes' status for 4 Nations Face-Off in limbo
While Vancouver Canucks fans are worried about their captain, so are United States hockey fans as well, with the 4 Nations Face-Off set to get underway next week in Montreal, Quebec.
However, due to Hughes' undisclosed injury, his status for the 4 Nations Face-Off appears to be in limbo, with Vancouver Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet telling reporters yesterday that the next 48 hours will play a big role in their captain's decision.
"We'll sit down with Quinn and talk to him. Depends on how close he is to playing on Saturday, that's what it comes down to. We're going to have to have a hard, long look at this. Like every player, you're concerned about safety and health." Tocchet said.
He added, "I know Quinn is a USA guy. Loves his country. Playing with his brother, there's a lot of positives to that, but he's a smart kid, too. He understands what's at stake."
If Quinn Hughes is unable to play for the United States, which would be his first international appearance since the 2019 IIHF World Championship, it would be a big loss for USA Hockey, who would then be tasked to find a replacement.
Among the options to replace Quinn Hughes are Jake Sanderson of the Ottawa Senators, John Carlson of the Washington Capitals or even Montreal Canadiens rookie Lane Hutson.
Team USA will begin their quest for the 4 Nations Face-Off title next Thursday as they take on Team Finland at 5 pm PT on Sportsnet. They'll then face Canada on February 15th and Sweden on February 17th.