We’re now just two months away from the NHL’s inaugural 4 Nations Face-Off.
With jersey designs revealed and rosters finalized, most of the preparations for the highly-anticipated international tournament are complete. But one big question remains…
Which players will earn the honour of captaining their respective countries?
With that in mind, here are our picks for the top captain candidates at the 4 Nations Face-Off.
Canada
1. Sidney Crosby
It’s nearly impossible to picture anyone but Sidney Crosby wearing the ‘C’ for Canada as long as he’s still playing.
With an unmatched résumé that includes three Stanley Cups and two Olympic gold medals — one of which was clinched by his iconic “Golden Goal” — the Pittsburgh Penguins’ longtime leader seems like a shoo-in to guide his countrymen on their quest for international glory.
2. Connor McDavid
Arguably the best player in hockey right now, Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid is a perfectly capable runner-up for the role.
With seven NHL seasons of wearing the ‘C’ under his belt, McDavid has proven himself as a natural leader both on and off the ice. Add his jaw-dropping speed, vision, and skill to the equation, and it’s easy to see why he’d make an ideal captain.
3. Nathan MacKinnon
Like the other two generational talents in Canada’s lineup, Colorado Avalanche forward Nathan MacKinnon’s accolades are nothing to sneeze at.
While he serves as an alternate captain in Denver, the 29-year-old’s leadership is undeniable. A Stanley Cup champion with a relentless drive, few players would be upset by “Nate Dogg” leading their pack.
USA
1. Quinn Hughes
Vancouver Canucks captain Quinn Hughes makes a strong case to fill Team USA’s captaincy void.
As one of the NHL’s top defencemen, his calm composure and ability to lead by example could be invaluable in a high-pressure international matchup.
Still, given the fact that he’s only 25, it’s possible that management prioritizes experience when selecting a leader.
2. Auston Matthews
Few players can carry a team on their back like Toronto Maple Leafs superstar Auston Matthews.
Coming off a 69-goal campaign, the Arizona native is known for scoring big goals and lots of them. Matthews recently inherited the ‘C’ from former Leafs leader John Tavares, strengthening his case for leading the country.
3. Matthew Tkachuk
While he’s never captained an NHL team, Florida Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk brings grit, charisma, and leadership to the table. He’s also the only American on this list to have won a Stanley Cup, giving him a unique edge in big-game experience.
Sweden
1. Victor Hedman
With the departure of Steven Stamkos, Tampa Bay Lightning blueliner Victor Hedman recently added “captain” to his long list of accolades.
As the only Team Sweden player currently wearing a ‘C’ in the NHL, Hedman’s leadership potential is undeniable. A two-time Stanley Cup champion and enduring Norris Trophy contender, he’s the perfect candidate to lead Sweden into the 4 Nations Face-Off
2. Filip Forsberg
Filip Forsberg has been the heart and soul of the Nashville Predators’ offense for years. With over 600 career points and a reputation as a clutch performer, Forsberg brings both scoring and leadership to Sweden’s roster. His consistent ability to produce points in high-pressure situations makes him a solid alternative.
3. Erik Karlsson
At 34, Pittsburgh Penguins defenceman Erik Karlsson brings plenty of experience to the table, having served as the captain of the Ottawa Senators for several years.
While he’s past his prime, the two-time Norris Trophy winner also captained Sweden to a bronze medal at the 2024 IIHF World Championship, making him worthy of consideration.
Finland
1. Aleksander Barkov
Only one player on Team Finland captains an NHL team and it’s none other than Florida Panthers forward Aleksander Barkov.
The 28-year-old has been a dominant force in the NHL for nearly a decade, amassing over 700 points in his career. Throw in his recent Stanley Cup win and he becomes the obvious choice to wear the ‘C’ for Finland.
2. Mikko Rantanen
Mikko Rantanen has firmly established himself as one of the NHL’s top wingers. With back-to-back 100+ point seasons and over 500 career points, the 28-year-old Colorado Avalanche star has proven his ability to produce at the highest level.
If Barkov were to somehow be passed up for the role, Rantanen would likely be next in line for the captaincy.
3. Miro Heiskanen
As one of Finland’s early selections, Dallas Stars defenceman Miro Heiskanen will likely play big minutes when once the puck drops on the February event.
Representing the country at both the 2018 IIHF World Junior Championship and the PyeongChang 2018 Olympics, the All-Star blueliner already has plenty of experience on the world’s stage, making him a viable candidate for leading the charge.