Colorado Avalanche star Nathan MacKinnon capped off a stellar 4 Nations Face-Off with a victory over Team USA in the final. He opened the scoring in the first period, netting his fourth goal of the tournament.
MacKinnon’s goal secured his spot as the tournament’s top goal-scorer, earning him MVP honors. While Edmonton Oilers standout Connor McDavid scored the game-winner and claimed the first star of the game, it was MacKinnon who shined throughout the tournament.
MacKinnon spent most of the game alongside Team Canada’s Sidney Crosby and Sam Reinhart. However, coach John Cooper occasionally stacked the top line, especially in the third period, pairing MacKinnon with Connor McDavid and rotating them individually.
In total, MacKinnon logged 20:31 of ice time, registering five shots on goal and winning six of 12 faceoffs. His speed and agility were on full display, proving to be a major asset for Team Canada.
Earning MVP honors adds to MacKinnon’s growing list of accolades, along with the bragging rights of winning the inaugural 4 Nations Face-Off. With his focus now shifting back to the NHL season, anticipation builds for his potential inclusion on Team Canada’s roster for the 2026 Milano Cortina Games.