Charlie McAvoy to Miss 4 Nations Face-Off Final vs. Canada Due to Infection In Right Shoulder

Charlie McAvoy’s absence will be a significant blow for Team USA as they take on Canada in the 4 Nations Face-Off final on Thursday. The defenseman, who plays for the Boston Bruins, has been ruled out due to an upper-body injury that has now developed into an infection, according to Frank Seravalli of Daily Faceoff. McAvoy was admitted to a Boston hospital for further evaluation.

McAvoy sustained an injury to his right shoulder acromioclavicular (AC) joint during Team USA’s 4 Nations Face-Off game against Finland on February 13. Initially treated by Team USA’s medical staff, McAvoy returned to Boston but experienced increasing pain. Upon evaluation by the Bruins’ medical team, further tests, including x-rays, MRIs, and bloodwork, revealed not only a significant injury to his AC joint but also an infection in his right shoulder.

McAvoy was admitted to Massachusetts General Hospital on February 18, where he underwent an irrigation and debridement procedure to address the infection. He remains in the hospital, receiving IV antibiotic treatment, and according to Bruins’ head team physician Dr. Peter Asnis, his condition is improving.

During the regular season, McAvoy was sidelined for seven games between January 11-30 due to an upper-body injury. He made his return for five games before joining Team USA for the 4 Nations Face-Off. So far this season, the defenseman has recorded 23 points, including seven goals and 16 assists, across 50 games.

“This tournament means a lot to him, He’s a very competitive guy. There’s a personal note with respect to my relationship with him and I’m disappointed for him because first and foremost he’s a great kid and he’s a terrific hockey player and I know this meant a lot to him.” : U.S. coach Mike Sullivan said on Tuesday.

Also Read: Team USA Faces Injury Concerns Ahead of 4 Nations Face-Off Final Against Canada

In 2022, McAvoy underwent an arthroscopic stabilization procedure on his left shoulder, sidelining him for six months. Throughout his eight-year NHL career, he has dealt with multiple upper-body injuries. McAvoy is married to Kiley, the daughter of Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan, and the couple welcomed a son last month.

McAvoy wasn’t the only sidelined in Monday’s 2-1 loss to Sweden. Forwards Auston Matthews and Matthew Tkachuk were held out as a precautionary measure, with the U.S. already having secured a spot in the championship game. However, Brady Tkachuk left the game early after crashing into the net, suffering a lower-body injury.

Despite the injuries, head coach Mike Sullivan remains optimistic about having a full roster for the final at TD Garden. With the tournament title on the line, Team USA will have to adjust quickly in McAvoy’s absence while awaiting updates on their other key players.

Image Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images