Hold on, Canadian hockey fans. . .
UPDATE: Officials from Hockey Canada have stated that both MacKinnon and Bennett are taking a short break today but are still expected to play in Canada’s quarter-final match tomorrow.
Today, Team Canada practiced in Milano, and two important players, Nathan MacKinnon and Sam Bennett, were noticeably missing from the team.
Per Team Canada:
Maintenance day for MacKinnon and Bennett https://t.co/zIfZMNc4xP
— Kyle Bukauskas (@sportsnetkyle) February 17, 2026
You might remember that MacKinnon took a hard hit during Canada’s victory against France earlier this week, but he mentioned after that he felt okay. So, we’ll have to wait and see what happens with him.
On a positive note, it’s great to see defenseman Josh Morrissey back on the ice, and we hope he will join the team again soon. If he plays for Canada tomorrow, don’t be surprised if young player Thomas Harley has to sit out.
Nathan MacKinnon is not skating at Canada’s practice today. Neither is Sam Bennett.
Nick Suzuki is skating between Hagel and Reinhart.
Josh Morrissey was going through line rushes paired with Parayko.
— Kyle Bukauskas (@sportsnetkyle) February 17, 2026
As for the other players, here’s how they are arranged:
Bo Horvat is moving up to fill MacKinnon’s position, while Nick Suzuki is shifting down to play center on the fourth line. I think Seth Jarvis will be taken out of the lineup to make room for MacKinnon in tomorrow’s big game.
Keep an eye out for more updates from Hockey Canada.
Morrissey buzzing around out here today, paired with Parayko. Looks good to go.
— Ryan Rishaug (@TSNRyanRishaug) February 17, 2026
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