Injured Matthew Tkachuk to miss Team USA game vs. Sweden
Tkachuk was hurt during the United States' 3-1 victory over Canada on Saturday night in Montreal
One of the most notable players taking part in the NHL’s 4 Nations Face-off has been Florida Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk.
His aggressive, physical style has fit right in with what the Americans have been doing on the ice under Head Coach Mike Sullivan.
A turning point for Team USA appeared to come when Sullivan switched up his forward lines during their opening game against Finland, moving the Tkahcuk brothers to a line centered by Jack Eichel.
The skilled and salty trio has looked great together, helping the American squad to a pair of victories to open the 4 Nations tournament.
At some point during the U.S. victory over Canada on Saturday night in Montreal, Tkachuk suffered an apparent injury.
While he remained on the bench, Tkachuk took his last shift about eight minutes into the third period.
He had a front row seat while watching his countrymen skate to an inspired 3-1 victory over their rivals to the north, locking in a spot In the 4 Nations final taking place Thursday night in Boston.
Afterwards, Tkachuk did not seem overly concerned about the injury, telling members of the media that he had “no concern at all” about his status moving forward.
That may have been the case, but Tkachuk was still seen walking with a noticeable limp after the game.
Fortunately for Tkachuk and the Americans, Monday’s matchup with Sweden hold’s little value in terms of the tournament. That being the case, Sullivan said Monday morning that Tkachuk would be held out against Sweden.
This allows Tkachuk an extra couple days to rest and recuperate ahead of Thursday’s 4-Nations final.
Taking his place in the U.S. lineup against the Swedes will be Chris Kreider.
Regarding Tkachuk's status for the final, his brother Brady sure seems to think that Matthew will be suiting up.
As for Team USA's opponent, we'll find out who they'll be facing when the dust settles Monday in Boston.
Stay tuned.
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