Concerning Update Puts Charlie McAvoy’s Status In Doubt For 4 Nations Title Game

BOSTON — Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy did not play in Team USA’s 2-1 loss to Sweden on Monday night at TD Garden.

It was reported after morning skate that McAvoy, Matthew Tkachuk and Connor Hellebuyck were all healthy scratches for the final 4 Nations Face-Off round-robin game.

Prior to puck drop, Auston Matthews was also sidelined, and Brady Tkachuk left the game in the first period after crashing into the goalpost.

USA head coach Mike Sullivan provided an update on his banged-up squad, including McAvoy, after the game.

“Brady obviously had a lower-body injury. We held him out more for precautionary reasons at that point. I haven’t got an update to this point after the game yet, so we’ll see how it responds, but I don’t anticipate it being an issue,” Sullivan said. “Charlie, right now, he’s out with an upper-body injury. Auston was more banged up or nicked up, I should say. We’ll probably have more information tomorrow with those guys.”

USA will face Canada in the 4 Nations championship game Thursday night, which gives both teams an extra day before the final game of the tournament.

“This tournament has been an emotional investment with all the teams,” Sullivan said. “As a pure hockey fan, you have to be excited about all the games that have been played.

“I just think it’s such great hockey, and anyone that loves hockey, it’s hard not to get excited about what went on. I give the players on all the respective teams so much credit for how hard they played, what it means to them and the pride that each nation has displayed here. But that’s an emotional investment that takes its toll.”

Sullivan added: “I can only speak for our team. We’re going to try to get some rest here and then we’re going to reinvest. We’re going to engage and re-engage and try to put our best game on the ice.”

The Pittsburgh Penguins head coach anticipates the game atmosphere at TD Garden to be incredible.

“This is a great hockey city,” Sullivan said. “It’s a great hockey town. There’ll be a lot of energy around this game. We’re certainly looking forward to it.”

Puck drop for the USA-Canada 4 Nations final is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET from TD Garden on Thursday. The game will air on ESPN.