Team Canada announces healthy scratches for quarterfinals against Czechia
Photo credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
Jon Cooper is playing a dangerous game by scratching Josh Morrissey for today’s do-or-die clash against Czechia.
The Winnipeg Jets defenseman looked ready to go after Tuesday’s skate. He says he’s taking it day by day. But he’s out.
Canada is rolling with a blue line that looks a bit thin without him. They’re betting on depth and high-end talent to mask the holes.
It’s a massive risk in a win-or-go-home scenario. One bad bounce and the gold medal dream dies in Milan.
Connor McDavid is carrying the load as usual. He’s already piled up 96 points this season. He’s the engine that won't quit.
Nathan MacKinnon is also ready to hunt. He took a couple of nasty hits against France but he’s suited up. The man has 40 goals already and he’s not stopping now.
Brad Marchand returns to the lineup at the perfect time
Brad Marchand is finally back. The 37-year-old hasn't played since the opener. Cooper held him back to make sure he’s a weapon for the knockout stage.
He’s a pest. He’s a winner. Canada needs that grit when the ice gets small and the whistles disappear.
Jordan Binnington gets the nod in goal. He’s been solid. He doesn't get rattled by the noise or the pressure of the big stage.
The lines are set. Celebrini is skating with McDavid and Tom Wilson. It’s a mix of pure speed and heavy hitting that should make the Czechs miserable.
Sam Bennett is joining Morrissey in the stands. It’s a maintenance thing. But in a quarterfinal, you want every dog in the fight.
Czechia is playing on a back-to-back. Canada needs to jump on them early. No mercy. No excuses.
The gold medal isn't won in February, but it can certainly be lost. If this lineup falters, the questions about Morrissey will haunt Cooper forever.
Canada has the firepower to bury any team in this tournament. Now they just have to prove it.
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| POLL | ||
FEVRIER 18|275 ANSWERS Team Canada announces healthy scratches for quarterfinals against Czechia Is Jon Cooper making a mistake by scratching Josh Morrissey? | ||
| Yes | 96 | 34.9 % |
| No | 179 | 65.1 % |
| List of polls | ||