The recently announced roster for the upcoming 2025 4 Nations Face-Off, scheduled for February 12-20, caused quite a discussion amongst NHL fans. Rasmus Andersson is the only Calgary Flames player picked for his national team.
Despite Flames only having one representative, fans are discussing which players from the Calgary Flames could have made a significant impact on their national teams.
Whether participating in these online discussions or engaging through other platforms, such as Alberta betting sites, hardcore Flames fans are actively following events and news around the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off.
MacKenzie Weegar for Team Canada
Weegar is one of the top picks from Calgary fans when it comes to Team Canada. However, he was left out of the official 4 Nations Face-off roster. He has had an incredible last 4 seasons and showed that he can contribute greatly both defensively and offensively.
Since arriving in the Calgary Flames as a defenceman, he has shown consistency and great composure under pressure. Weegar, as an alternate captain for the Flames, lived up to all of the expectations put on him as a leader.
His run at the 2023 IIHF World Championship recorded three goals and eight assists in ten games. Weegar could have brought much-needed versatility to the Canadian roster for the 4 Nations Face-off.
Captain Mikael Backlund Could Have Made Sweden’s Roster
Backlund could have been a very strong pick for Team Sweden. He was already on the roster at the World Cup in 2016. He was also the captain for the Swedes in 2018, the year they won.
Backlund has been a consistent performer for the Flames. His international experience, alongside his two-way game and evident leadership qualities, can positively impact any team he is on.
Other Possible Candidates from Calgary Flames
Calgary Flames boats a very competitive lineup. Therefore, it is not wrong to say that many players could have made significant contributions to their national teams. Although these players were not picked this year, it does not mean that they are not going to be valid future candidates for participation in the 4 Nations Face-Off.
- Jonathan Huberdeau. Huberdeau has been a key offensive player since he joined the team in 2022. He is well known for his vision and playmaking skills. His participation in World Championships positions him as a strong candidate for selection.
- Dustin Wolf. A young talent, exceptional in the AHL, Wolf won the Baz Bastien Memorial Award as American Hockey League goaltender of the year as a rookie in 2021-22. While he currently may lack experience, he can definitely become a compelling option for international competition in the future.
- Nazem Kadri. Possibly one of the most well-rounded players on the team, his
playoff experience makes him an ideal choice for a tournament setting. Although he had hand surgery in 2022, three weeks before the Stanley Cup Playoffs, Kadri had impressive results. Kadri’s physical style of play combined with his scoring ability, would provide Canada with both grit and offensive firepower.
The Importance of 4 Nations Face-Off
The 4 Nations Face-Off exhibition tournament replaces the NHL All-Star Game. It will be a perfect opportunity for a generation of Canadian and American superstars to battle each other for the championship. However, the 2 nations, Finland and Sweden, will bring a superstar roster of their own.
While some of the names shown on the official reveal have been expected, there are also a few players fans argue should have made the list. Taking place from Feb. 12-20 in Montreal and Boston, the 4 Nations Face-Off will be an exciting opportunity for Calgary Fans to watch Rasmus Andersson, alongside other superstars, compete on the world stage.
