With less than seven months to go until the Four Nation Face-Off, two New York Islanders are probable to appear in the event.
With less than seven months to go until the Four Nation Face-Off, two New York Islanders are probable to appear in the event.
With less than seven months to go until the Four Nation Face-Off, two New York Islanders are probable to appear in the event.
Forward Mathew Barzal and defenseman Noah Dobson were projected to make Team Canada’s roster in an article released by NHL.com.
Barzal and Dobson each finished as key pieces to their respective positions in 2023-24.
The 27-year-old forward was the team’s All-Star this past season, averaging a point-per-game, with 23 goals and 57 assists for 80 points in as many games.
Dobson had a breakout season at the blue line, totaling 10 goals and 60 assists for 70 points in 79 games, setting new career highs in the latter two categories.
Notably absent from the projection, however, is Bo Horvat, Barzal’s wingman.
In their first full season together, Horvat had a strong campaign, tallying 33 red lights and 35 helpers for 68 points. However, among names on the roster include former Islanders blueliner Devon Toews.
The website polled three of their Editor-in-Chief, Bill Price, and staff writers, Derek Van Diest and Nicolas Ducharme, to produce the list, with the latter two updating their lists from their initial release in February. On Dobson, Price said, “[Cale] Makar and Dobson are each averaging around 25 minutes per game this season, exactly what Canada will need to shut down some of the world’s best.”
The full roster for all teams will be released at a later date. The tournament will take place from Feb. 12-20, 2025.