Bruins’ Charlie McAvoy Out for Team USA in 4 Nations Face-Off; Canucks’ Quinn Hughes Steps In

February 18, 2025 – Team USA will have to adjust its defensive lineup for the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off after learning that Boston Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy will not be available for the tournament. However, the team will still have elite blue-line talent, as Quinn Hughes of the Vancouver Canucks has been confirmed to play.

McAvoy’s Absence a Big Blow for Team USA

McAvoy, a cornerstone of the Bruins’ defense, was initially expected to be a key player for the American squad in the 4 Nations Face-Off, a highly anticipated international tournament featuring teams from the United States, Canada, Sweden, and Finland. However, McAvoy has been ruled out due to what sources describe as lingering injury concerns. While the specifics of his injury have not been disclosed, Bruins officials have emphasized the importance of ensuring their star defenseman is fully healthy for the remainder of the NHL season.

“Charlie is an incredible competitor, and he was looking forward to representing his country,” Bruins head coach Jim Montgomery said. “But after discussions with our medical staff, we felt it was best for him to sit this one out and focus on his recovery. His long-term health is the priority.”

McAvoy, 26, has been a stalwart for Boston this season, logging heavy minutes and contributing both offensively and defensively. His absence leaves a significant gap in Team USA’s defensive core, which was already expected to face fierce competition against the star-studded rosters of Canada, Sweden, and Finland.

Quinn Hughes Ready to Step Up

Despite McAvoy’s absence, Team USA will still feature elite defensive talent, including the addition of Quinn Hughes. The Vancouver Canucks captain and Norris Trophy contender has been officially confirmed as part of the roster. Hughes, 25, is enjoying a standout season, leading all NHL defensemen in points while proving himself as one of the best puck-moving blueliners in the game.

“Anytime you get the opportunity to represent your country, it’s special,” Hughes said. “Obviously, it’s tough that Charlie won’t be able to go, but we have a deep group, and I’m excited to be part of it.”

Hughes’ ability to drive offense from the back end, quarterback the power play, and maintain strong defensive positioning will be crucial for Team USA. He joins a defense corps that includes other top-tier talents such as Adam Fox (New York Rangers), Jaccob Slavin (Carolina Hurricanes), and Zach Werenski (Columbus Blue Jackets).

How Will Team USA Adjust?

With McAvoy out, head coach Mike Sullivan and his staff will need to adjust their defensive pairings. McAvoy, a right-shot defenseman, was expected to play major minutes in all situations, including against top competition. The coaching staff will likely look to Fox, Slavin, and Hughes to take on even greater responsibilities.

Hughes’ offensive skillset differs from McAvoy’s more two-way approach, meaning Team USA’s defensive game plan might shift slightly. Hughes excels in transitioning the puck quickly and creating scoring chances, while McAvoy provides more physicality and shutdown ability.

“Hughes brings elite skating and playmaking ability,” said former NHL defenseman and analyst Kevin Bieksa. “He’s not a one-for-one replacement for McAvoy in terms of defensive presence, but he changes the dynamic and could actually make Team USA even more dangerous offensively.”

USA’s Competition in the 4 Nations Face-Off

The 4 Nations Face-Off, set to take place in February 2025, will serve as a preview of potential Olympic matchups, with the world’s top talent competing. Team USA will face tough opponents, particularly Canada, which boasts an all-world defensive unit led by Cale Makar, Dougie Hamilton, and Thomas Chabot. Meanwhile, Sweden will have the likes of Victor Hedman and Rasmus Dahlin, and Finland will rely on their strong defensive core featuring Miro Heiskanen and Esa Lindell.

Despite McAvoy’s absence, Team USA remains a strong contender. The squad still features some of the NHL’s top players, including Auston Matthews, Jack Eichel, Matthew Tkachuk, and Trevor Zegras. The addition of Quinn Hughes ensures that the team retains its offensive firepower from the blue line.

What’s Next?

With the tournament just days away, Team USA will finalize its roster adjustments and defensive pairings in upcoming practices. While losing McAvoy is a setback, the addition of Hughes ensures that the Americans will remain competitive.

“We’ve got a lot of depth, and we’re confident in our group,” Sullivan said. “Hughes is a tremendous player, and we’re lucky to have him.”

As the 4 Nations Face-Off nears, all eyes will be on Team USA to see how they adapt without one of their top defensemen. However, with a skilled roster and elite talent stepping in, the Americans remain a force to be reckoned with in international competition.