Team Canada is facing important changes as the February 12th start date for the 4 Nations Face-Off approaches. The withdrawal of veteran defenseman Alex Pietrangelo has not only put pressure on Canada’s coaching staff but also opened the door for other players to step up.
Alex Pietrangelo, who announced on Sunday through the Vegas Golden Knights’ social media channels, cited the need to tend to an unspecified ailment and prepare for the remainder of the NHL regular season. “Update: Alex Pietrangelo will be withdrawing from the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off to tend to an ailment and prepare for the remainder of the regular season with Vegas,” said the organization. This leaves Team Canada without one of its key defensive players just weeks before the tournament.
Reported by Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, Pietrangelo’s absence leaves a noticeable gap, particularly as he was slated to play alongside teammate Shea Theodore, forming the cornerstone of Canada’s defense. With the deadline for final roster submissions set for February 11, the impending task now falls upon Team Canada’s management to secure the right candidate to fill this pivotal role.
Among the candidates considered is Drew Doughty of the Los Angeles Kings, who is making strides toward recovery from the ankle fracture sustained earlier this season. “Drew Doughty's imminent return looms large,” wrote TSN Hockey Insider Pierre LeBrun online. “He should be playing his first game with the Kings within the next 3-5 games. If he can show he's up to speed in time for 4 Nations, [he] has a real shot at being the guy.”
Doughty, eager to make his presence felt, expressed his intent to represent Canada at the tournament. “I’m still hoping I have the outside chance of playing in the 4 Nations,” Doughty said after participating in full-contact practices. Despite the challenges he faced during recovery, his competitive spirit shone through, as he underscored his frustration of being sidelined. “I want to play, so we’ll see what happens,” he added.
This tournament is particularly special as it marks the first significant international hockey event since the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, making each player’s contribution even more meaningful. Notably, the competition will run from February 12 to February 20, encompassing major hockey cities like Montreal and Boston.
The timing of Doughty’s potential return correlates perfectly with Team Canada’s needs, particularly following Pietrangelo's health-related exit. The Kings are currently positioned third within the Pacific Division with promising statistics of 26 wins, 14 losses, and 6 overtime losses. Doughty aims to fit back seamlessly without jeopardizing the remainder of the Kings' season.
“I would have loved to have played already, so I get it,” Doughty reflected on his patience, recognizing the importance of being 100 percent fit before stepping onto the ice. The Kings are taking extra precautions, emphasizing the need for Doughty to gain full match fitness before resuming both club and international duties. After months of hard work and rehabilitation, known well by his teammates, it's clear Doughty desires to reassert himself, not just with the Kings, but also wearing Canada’s prestigious colors again.
The stakes for the 4 Nations Face-Off are undeniably high. Canadiain fans are hopeful for Doughty’s swift return and his subsequent inclusion on the squad. Doughty’s resume includes representing Canada at two Winter Olympics (2010 and 2014) and during the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, where he helped the country secure notable victories.
Meanwhile, Team Canada is closely monitoring Doughty’s recovery progress as they aim to finalize the roster. LeBrun indicated they would take their time evaluating options, stressing the need for experience and finesse on defense. With Doughty's established proficiency and leadership, he can significantly augment Canada's chances on the international stage, provided he is deemed fit enough to compete.
Wrapping up training and practices with patience and perseverance, Doughty remains focused on not just physical readiness but also on his historical placement within Team Canada’s legacy. “What’s an extra couple of games?” he mused, underscoring his eagerness to get back on the ice at any level.
With the Kings set to face off against the Red Wings, all eyes will be on Doughty—and whether he can reclaim his position as one of the league's elite defensemen, helping Team Canada aim for its next significant triumph.