Tough blow to Team Canada’s lineup right ahead of quarterfinal

Team Canada’s lineup is taking a hit just hours before its quarterfinal matchup with Czechia.

After some early optimism that defenseman Josh Morrissey might be available, it now appears he will not dress. Morrissey exited early in the second period of Canada’s 5-0 win over Czechia last Thursday and did not return. He logged 7:10 of ice time over 13 shifts alongside Colton Parayko before heading to the locker room. Though Canada managed to dominate since with only six defensemen, his continued absence remains a storyline.

TSN’s Ryan Rishaug reported that both Morrissey and Sam Bennett were on the ice for close to 30 minutes during Wednesday’s morning skate, skating and shooting normally, but the extended session strongly suggests neither will play.

I was hoping we would see Morrissey back in uniform...

Goaltender Darcy Kuemper also took part in the skate and is expected to be scratched, with Jordan Binnington and Logan Thompson set to handle duties between the pipes.

There is also great news for Canada, however. Nathan MacKinnon appears ready to play after an injury scare against France and a maintenance day Tuesday. Brad Marchand is also expected to return to the lineup after missing the past two games.

With the knockout stage here, Canada will need to adapt quickly as lineup uncertainty lingers heading into a crucial clash.

Here is the projected lineup: