Team Canada Secures Emergency Roster Exception for Thomas Harley Ahead of Clash with Team USA

2025-03-02

Team Canada has successfully secured an emergency roster exception for defenseman Thomas Harley ahead of their highly anticipated matchup against Team USA in the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament. The NHL and NHLPA granted the exception after Canada faced defensive setbacks, including an injury to Shea Theodore and an illness affecting Cale Makar. Harley, a 23-year-old Dallas Stars defenseman, was flown to Montréal as a standby replacement, though he cannot participate in practices or morning skates unless officially added to the lineup.

The decision marks a departure from the tournament’s original rules, which set a strict deadline for injury replacements. However, concerns over potential travel delays and the risk of Canada starting a game with only five healthy defensemen prompted the exception. Team Canada coach Jon Cooper expressed confidence that Makar would be available for Saturday’s game, but Harley remains on standby as a precaution.

The rivalry between Team USA and Team Canada is set to reignite in what players describe as one of the most significant games of their careers. Both teams enter the matchup with one win each in the tournament, with Canada narrowly defeating Sweden in overtime and the U.S. dominating Finland 6-1. The game, scheduled for Saturday night at Montréal’s Bell Centre, is expected to draw an electric crowd and showcase some of the best talent in international hockey.

The storied history between the two nations, including Canada’s iconic 2010 Olympic gold medal win over the U.S., adds to the intensity of the matchup. Players like Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid are expected to lead Canada, while the U.S. boasts a deep roster featuring stars like Auston Matthews and the Tkachuk brothers. The game is anticipated to be a tightly contested battle, with both teams bringing their best in a clash that transcends individual rivalries and national pride.

Sources: NHL, NHLPA grant Team Canada emergency roster exception in standby Thomas Harley

The NHL and NHLPA agreed that they were not prepared to have Canada begin a game with five defensemen.

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