Concerning update on Josh Morrissey following Canada’s win over Switzerland

Veteran defenseman Josh Morrissey will not return for Team Canada’s next Olympic matchup against France on Sunday, according to head coach Jon Cooper. While Morrissey is not expected to be sidelined for the remainder of the tournament, the update remains a concern for Canada’s blue line as they look to maintain momentum in Milan.

Morrissey first left Thursday’s 5-0 victory over Czechia early in the second period. Skating on the second pairing alongside Colton Parayko, Morrissey logged 7:10 of ice time across 13 shifts before heading to the locker room, leaving Canada with just six available defensemen for the remainder of the game. Despite the setback, Canada secured a dominant win, clinching first place in Group A with a 5-1 victory over Switzerland on Friday.

While the team fared well without him, Morrissey’s absence highlights the importance of depth and flexibility on the defensive corps. Cooper confirmed that veteran forward Brad Marchand will return for Sunday’s matchup, providing some stability and experience for the Canadian lineup, but the team will need to adjust once again in Morrissey’s absence.

For now, Team Canada continues to dominate in the group stage, but Morrissey’s absence serves as a reminder that even a deep roster must adapt when key players are sidelined. His return will be a welcome boost, but the team will need to remain focused and disciplined to navigate the challenges ahead without him in the lineup.