Team Canada hit the ice in Milan on Wednesday for one final tune-up before Thursday’s Olympic opener against Team Czechia, and there were a few notable tweaks to the lineup - particularly when it comes to Bo Horvat’s role.
For the second straight practice, the Islanders center found himself anchoring the fourth line. But this time around, he had a new set of wingers riding shotgun.
On Monday, Horvat was flanked by Tampa Bay’s Brandon Hagel and Florida’s Sam Reinhart. By Wednesday, the combination had shifted - Horvat was now centering Florida’s Brad Marchand and Montreal captain Nick Suzuki.
That duo had previously been skating with Colorado’s Nathan MacKinnon earlier in the week.
The line shuffle doesn’t appear to be a demotion or a reflection of Horvat’s play - instead, it looks like the coaching staff is still experimenting with chemistry and roles, trying to find the right mix ahead of a high-stakes tournament. And even though Horvat’s on the fourth line at even strength, he’s still getting special teams time. He held his spot on the second power-play unit and also saw reps on the penalty kill alongside Hagel.
That kind of versatility is going to be key for Canada as the games ramp up. Horvat’s ability to contribute in multiple phases - whether it’s five-on-five, the man advantage, or shorthanded - gives the coaching staff flexibility and depth, which is critical in a tournament setting where matchups and momentum can shift fast.
The puck drops Thursday at 10:40 AM ET as Horvat and Team Canada take on Czechia, whose roster includes Horvat’s Islanders teammate Ondrej Palat. It’s the kind of early matchup that should give us a good read on where Canada stands - and how these new line combinations might hold up when the lights come on for real.