As the countdown continues, several key updates and roster changes have emerged, including notable injuries and replacements. Additionally, all eyes were on Sidney Crosby following a recent scare on the ice last night in the game against New Jersey. Here’s everything you need to know to stay up-to-date with the latest developments leading up to the tournament, which is now seven days away.
Team Canada
Sidney Crosby had a scare during a game against the New Jersey Devils on February 4, 2025. He collided awkwardly with Luke Hughes and Erik Haula, appearing to injure his left arm. Crosby returned to finish the game but missed practice today for evaluation for an upper body injury.
Crosby stepped onto the ice last night with an impressive record of 17 goals and 41 assists across 55 games this season. Currently, Crosby ranks tenth in the league for assists and is tied for sixteenth in total points. With goals in four consecutive matches, Sidney Crosby has made history as the fourth Penguins player to reach this milestone at the age of 37 or older. He has scored in five out of his last six games. Furthermore, Crosby added another point to his tally, leaving him just two points shy of becoming the ninth player in NHL history to achieve 17 or more seasons with at least 60 points. He is also ninth all-time in points, 19th all-time in goals, and 11th all-time in assists.
The Penguins, following the shootout loss to New Jersey, have now dropped to eighth place in the Eastern Conferences’ wild-card race with a 22-24-9 record and 53 points, and are now seven points off the second wild-card berth.
As of now, Crosby is still expected to captain Team Canada in the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off. His leadership and experience on the international stage will be invaluable for Team Canada. Known as ‘Captain Canada,’ his presence is expected to provide stability and inspiration as Team Canada aims for victory in the tournament.
Team Finland
Miro Heiskanen, the Dallas Stars defenseman, was injured on January 30, 2025, following a collision with Vegas Golden Knights forward Mark Stone. He underwent knee surgery and is now considered month-to-month. Henri Jokiharju has been added to the roster as his replacement.
Henri Jokiharju has been a steady presence on the Buffalo Sabres‘ blue line this season. Jokiharju was drafted in the first round, 29th overall, by the Chicago Blackhawks in 2017. In the 2024-25 season, he has played 38 games, scoring a goal and providing three assists, with a plus-minus rating of +5. His solid defensive play, including 30 blocked shots and 29 hits, has been crucial for the Sabres.
Jokiharju’s addition to Team Finland for the 4 Nations Face-Off is significant. His ability to play in all situations and his experience on the international stage, including helping Finland win gold medals at the IIHF World Junior Championship and the IIHF World Championship in 2019, make him a valuable asset.
Jani Hakanpaa, the Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman, had been ruled out due to an ongoing knee injury. The announcement was made on February 1, 2025. Urho Vaakanainen (New York Rangers) has now been added to the roster as his replacement.
In the 2024-25 season, Vaakanainen has played 27 games, recording six assists. Known for his solid defensive play and ability to move the puck effectively, Vaakanainen addition to Team Finland for the 4 Nations Face-Off will help bolster their blue line, especially with the absence of both Miro Heiskanen and Jani Hakanpaa. While primarily a defensive player, Vaakanainen can contribute offensively as well. He has a good shot from the point and can join the rush when needed.
Team Sweden
Sweden’s Jacob Markström (New Jersey Devils) is out with an MCL sprain after a collision with Boston forward Justin Brazeau. Samuel Ersson of the Philadelphia Flyers has been added to Team Sweden’s roster for the 4 Nations Face-Off, replacing the injured Markström. Ersson has played 30 games this season, recording 15 wins, two shutouts, a goals-against average (GAA) of 2.84, and a save percentage (SV%) of .894. His addition to the team is significant as he brings solid goaltending skills and international experience, having helped Sweden secure a bronze medal at the 2024 IIHF World Championship. However, the loss of Jacob Markström, who has been a key player in net, could impact the team’s overall performance and defensive stability.
William Karlsson, center for the Vegas Golden Knights, was recently replaced by Rickard Rakell due to a lower-body injury. Unfortunately, the injury sustained on January 20, 2025, has sidelined him, and he will miss the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off. Karlsson is listed as week-to-week. His absence is a significant blow to Team Sweden, but Pittsburgh Penguins forward Rickard Rakell has since been named as his replacement.
Rakell has had a strong 2024-25 season, playing 54 games and recording 24 goals and 22 assists for a total of 46 points, with a plus-minus rating of -1. Many considered Rakell’s initial absence from the roster a bit of a misstep, given his performance this season. His addition to Team Sweden is expected to provide a significant boost. Rakell’s scoring ability, combined with his experience and versatility, will help fill the void left by Karlsson. His presence on the ice will be crucial for Sweden since Rakell can seamlessly switch between playing on the left and right wings, as well as between the first and second line.
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