The hockey world is buzzing with anticipation for the inaugural Four Nations Face-Off. This tournament showcases the best NHL players from Canada, Finland, Sweden, and the United States. This exciting event takes place from February 12th to 20th, 2025. It promises thrilling action. Intense rivalries will unfold as these hockey powerhouses battle for supremacy. In this in-depth preview, we’ll explore the tournament’s schedule. We’ll also look into its format, teams, and key players. You will learn about the coaches as well. Finally, we’ll reveal where you can catch all the action.

Tournament Schedule and Format

The Four Nations Face-Off will be held in two iconic hockey cities: Montreal, Canada, and Boston, Massachusetts. The tournament follows a round-robin format, with each team playing three games against the other nations. The top two teams based on points will then advance to a one-game final to determine the champion.

Here’s the full schedule:

Date	Matchup	Location	Time (ET)	TV
Feb. 12	Canada vs. Sweden	Bell Centre	8:00 PM	Sportsnet/TNT
Feb. 13	USA vs. Finland	Bell Centre	8:00 PM	Sportsnet/ESPN
Feb. 15	Finland vs. Sweden	Bell Centre	1:00 PM	Sportsnet/ABC
Feb. 15	USA vs. Canada	Bell Centre	8:00 PM	Sportsnet/ABC
Feb. 17	Canada vs. Finland	TD Garden	1:00 PM	Sportsnet/TNT
Feb. 17	Sweden vs. USA	TD Garden	8:00 PM	Sportsnet/TNT
Feb. 20	Championship Game	TD Garden	8:00 PM	Sportsnet/ESPN

The tournament uses a points system similar to international and college hockey:

• Regulation win: 3 points
• Overtime/shootout win: 2 points
• Overtime/shootout loss: 1 point
• Regulation loss: 0 points

Overtime in the round-robin stage consists of a 10-minute, 3-on-3 sudden-death period, followed by a three-round shootout if necessary. In the final, overtime will be continuous 20-minute, 5-on-5 sudden-death periods until a goal is scored.  

A New Era of International Hockey

The Four Nations Face-Off marks a significant shift in the NHL’s approach to international competition. It replaces the traditional All-Star Game for the 2024-25 season. This change offers a more competitive and meaningful format for both players and fans. This tournament acts as a precursor to the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. NHL players are expected to participate in these games for the first time since 2014. The NHL plans to host the World Cup of Hockey in 2028. The league also plans to host it in 2032. This further emphasizes the NHL’s commitment to international hockey.  

Adding to the intrigue, the Four Nations Face-Off pits NHL teammates against each other as they represent their respective countries. This results in a unique dynamic. Familiar faces become rivals on the international stage. This transition adds another layer of excitement to the tournament. Matt Boldy and Brock Faber of the Minnesota Wild will be donning the Team USA jersey. Meanwhile, their Wild teammates Joel Eriksson Ek, Jonas Brodin, and Filip Gustavsson will represent Team Sweden.  

Furthermore, the Four Nations Face-Off serves as a crucial prelude to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina. Many players and coaching staff are likely to be involved in both events. This tournament offers a valuable opportunity to assess team strategies. Additionally, it allows for an evaluation of individual performances. It’s a chance for teams to build chemistry, fine-tune their systems, and gain a competitive edge before the Olympic stage.  

A Legacy of International Showdowns

While the “Four Nations Face-Off” is a new tournament, the concept of best-on-best international hockey competitions has a rich history. For over two decades, tournaments like the “Three Nations Cup” have provided thrilling contests. The “Four Nations Cup” also delivered intense matches between hockey powerhouses. The United States has been a dominant force in these tournaments. They captured the title nine times. This includes a remarkable four consecutive victories from 2015 to 2018. These past tournaments have produced memorable moments. They have created fierce rivalries. This sets the stage for the exciting competition we anticipate in the Four Nations Face-Off.  

Team Canada

Team Canada boasts a star-studded roster, led by captain Sidney Crosby and alternate captains Connor McDavid and Cale Makar. Crosby, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, brings invaluable experience and leadership to the team. The forward group is a potent mix of skill, speed, and scoring prowess. It features players like Nathan MacKinnon, Brad Marchand, Mitch Marner, and Brayden Point. On defense, Makar and Devon Toews form a formidable pairing, complemented by the likes of Josh Morrissey and Shea Theodore. In net, Jordan Binnington and Adin Hill provide solid goaltending options. Unfortunately, Alex Pietrangelo had to withdraw from the tournament due to injury, leaving a gap on the blue line.  

Key Players to Watch

• Sidney Crosby: The veteran leader and two-time Olympic gold medalist will be crucial in guiding Canada’s quest for victory. Crosby’s impact on international hockey is undeniable, with his “golden goal” in the 2010 Vancouver Olympics etched in hockey history. He elevates his game in crucial moments. He also inspires his teammates. This makes him a true leader for Team Canada.
• Connor McDavid: Arguably the best player in the world, McDavid’s speed and skill will be a constant threat to opposing defenses. McDavid’s electrifying skating and playmaking abilities make him a nightmare for defenders. His offensive creativity and ability to generate scoring chances will be essential for Team Canada’s success.
• Cale Makar: The dynamic defenseman can contribute offensively and defensively, making him a key player on both ends of the ice. Makar’s smooth skating, puck-moving skills, and offensive instincts make him a modern-day offensive defenseman. His ability to join the rush and create scoring opportunities will be a valuable asset for Team Canada.

Coaching Staff

Jon Cooper, head coach of the Tampa Bay Lightning, will lead Team Canada. He is joined by a highly experienced coaching staff, including Bruce Cassidy, Peter DeBoer, and Rick Tocchet. This coaching staff brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, having achieved success at various levels of hockey. Their combined expertise will be crucial in guiding Team Canada through the tournament.  

Team USA

Team USA, captained by Auston Matthews, is a formidable opponent with a blend of youth and experience. Matthews, one of the league’s premier goal scorers, will be a focal point of the American attack. The forward group also includes talented players like Matthew Tkachuk, Jack Eichel, and Jack Hughes. The defense is anchored by Adam Fox, Charlie McAvoy, and Quinn Hughes, providing a mix of offensive firepower and defensive stability. Connor Hellebuyck and Jake Oettinger form a strong goaltending duo. Matthew Tkachuk and Charlie McAvoy will serve as alternate captains for Team USA.  

Key Players to Watch

• Auston Matthews: The American captain and offensive leader will be a driving force for Team USA. Matthews is a goal-scoring machine with an incredible shot and offensive instincts. His ability to find the back of the net will be crucial for Team USA’s success.
• Matthew Tkachuk: The power forward brings a physical presence and scoring touch to the American lineup. Tkachuk’s combination of skill, grit, and net-front presence makes him a valuable asset for Team USA. He can agitate opponents, create scoring chances, and contribute offensively.
• Adam Fox: The skilled defenseman can quarterback the power play and contribute offensively. Fox is a smooth-skating, puck-moving defenseman with excellent vision and offensive instincts. His ability to run the power play and contribute offensively will be crucial for Team USA.

Coaching Staff

Mike Sullivan, a two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Pittsburgh Penguins, will coach Team USA. His assistant coaches include John Tortorella, John Hynes, and David Quinn. This coaching staff brings a wealth of experience and a winning pedigree to Team USA. Their leadership and tactical expertise will be essential in guiding the team through the tournament.  

Team Finland

Team Finland, led by captain Aleksander Barkov, is a strong contender with a balanced roster. Barkov, a Selke Trophy winner, is a dominant two-way force. The forward group features offensive weapons like Sebastian Aho, Mikko Rantanen, and Patrik Laine. Esa Lindell and Rasmus Ristolainen anchor the defense. Juuse Saros is the likely starter in net.  

Key Players to Watch

• Aleksander Barkov: The Finnish captain and elite two-way center will be a key player in all situations. Barkov’s defensive prowess and offensive capabilities make him one of the most complete players in the NHL. His leadership and ability to control the game will be crucial for Team Finland.
• Sebastian Aho: The skilled playmaker and goal scorer will be a crucial part of Finland’s offensive attack. Aho’s vision, puck-handling skills, and scoring touch make him a dangerous offensive weapon. His ability to create scoring chances for himself and his teammates will be essential for Team Finland.
• Patrik Laine: Known for his powerful shot, Laine can be a game-changer with his scoring ability. Laine possesses one of the most lethal shots in the NHL. His ability to score from distance and on the power play makes him a constant threat to opposing goaltenders.

Coaching Staff

Antti Pennanen, head coach of Ilves in the Finnish Liiga, will lead Team Finland. Tuomo Ruutu serves as the assistant coach.  

Team Sweden

Team Sweden, captained by Victor Hedman, is a force to be reckoned with. Hedman, a Norris Trophy winner, is one of the best defensemen in the world. The forward group is led by Mika Zibanejad, William Nylander, and Elias Pettersson, a trio that combines skill, speed, and scoring ability. Erik Karlsson, a three-time Norris Trophy winner, adds offensive firepower from the blue line. Filip Gustavsson and Linus Ullmark provide strong goaltending options.  

Key Players to Watch

• Victor Hedman: The Swedish captain and elite defenseman will be a leader on and off the ice. Hedman’s size, strength, and skating ability make him a dominant force on the blue line. His leadership and ability to control the game will be crucial for Team Sweden.
• Mika Zibanejad: The skilled center is a consistent offensive threat and a key player for Sweden. Zibanejad’s offensive instincts, playmaking abilities, and scoring touch make him a dangerous player in the offensive zone. His leadership and experience will be valuable for Team Sweden.
• Elias Pettersson: The dynamic forward can create scoring chances and contribute offensively. Pettersson’s puck-handling skills, vision, and scoring ability make him a threat every time he steps on the ice. His offensive creativity and ability to generate scoring chances will be essential for Team Sweden.

Coaching Staff

Sam Hallam, an experienced coach with the Swedish national team, will lead Team Sweden. Daniel Alfredsson, a Hockey Hall of Famer, serves as the assistant coach.  

Where to Watch or Listen

The Four Nations Face-Off will be broadcast on various networks in the United States and Canada.

Country	TV Channels	Streaming Options
USA	ABC, ESPN, TNT	fuboTV (free trial), ESPN+, Sling Orange (ESPN/TNT)
Canada	Sportsnet (SN), TVAS	Sportsnet NOW

Radio:

• SiriusXM NHL Network Radio Channel 91  

Ticket Availability

Tickets for the Four Nations Face-Off are available through various platforms, including Ticketmaster, SeatGeek, Vivid Seats, and StubHub.  

Ticket prices vary depending on the game, seat location, and date of purchase. For example:

• Canada vs. Sweden (Feb. 12, Bell Centre): Tickets start at $70.  
• USA vs. Finland (Feb. 13, Bell Centre): Tickets start at $29.  
• Championship Game (Feb. 20, TD Garden): Tickets start at $152.  

Here’s a table summarizing ticket prices for each game:

Date	Matchup	Location	Lowest Price
Feb. 12	Canada vs. Sweden	Bell Centre	$70
Feb. 13	USA vs. Finland	Bell Centre	$29
Feb. 15	Finland vs. Sweden	Bell Centre	$34
Feb. 15	USA vs. Canada	Bell Centre	$174
Feb. 17	Canada vs. Finland	TD Garden	$81
Feb. 17	Sweden vs. USA	TD Garden	$129
Feb. 20	Championship Game	TD Garden	$152

Conclusion

The Four Nations Face-Off is shaping up to be a can’t-miss event for hockey fans. With elite players, intense rivalries, and a competitive format, this tournament promises to be a thrilling showcase of international hockey. Make sure to tune in and witness the clash of these hockey titans as they battle for glory.

While all four teams boast incredible talent and depth, Team USA appears to be the early favorite. Their forward group, led by Matthews and both Tkachuk brothers, is arguably the most potent in the tournament. However, Team Canada and Team Sweden are formidable opponents with strong rosters and experienced coaching staffs. Ultimately, the tournament’s outcome will likely depend on which team can best utilize its strengths, adapt to the unique challenges of international play, and maintain consistency throughout the competition.