Olympic Quarterfinals Loom as Team Canada Eyes Return of Key Players
As the Olympic men’s hockey tournament shifts into the high-stakes quarterfinal stage, Team Canada is getting healthier - and just in time. With a potential semifinal berth on the line, reinforcements are on the horizon for a squad that’s already found its rhythm.
The Canadians, who’ve rattled off three straight wins to top their group, now await the winner of the Czechia-Denmark play-in game. That quarterfinal clash is set for Wednesday morning, and it could feature the return of two important veterans - including a top-pairing blueliner who hasn’t seen game action since the tournament opener.
Morrissey Trending Up at the Right Time
Josh Morrissey, the Winnipeg Jets defenseman and a key piece of Canada’s blue line, looks closer than ever to a return. After missing significant time since exiting midway through Canada’s first game, Morrissey was a full participant in Tuesday’s practice - the clearest sign yet that he’s trending in the right direction.
Not only did he skate without limitations, but he also lined up alongside his usual partner, Colton Parayko. That’s a strong indication that the coaching staff is preparing for a possible reunion of that pairing in Wednesday’s quarterfinal.
“I’m just taking it day-by-day here, obviously,” Morrissey said after practice. “We had a good skate and we’re just trying to get ready for the rest of the tournament the best we can.”
Even while sidelined, Morrissey’s been locked in - staying sharp on systems, watching closely from the bench, and doing what he can to support his teammates in a short-format tournament where chemistry and preparation are everything.
“You try to be a great teammate in whatever way you can,” he said. “Every single guy here is a fantastic hockey player. Just being vocal and around the group, contributing any way you can.”
Marchand Also Set to Return
Up front, Brad Marchand is expected to be back in the lineup after missing time with an undisclosed injury. Canadian head coach Jon Cooper confirmed that the veteran winger is healthy and ready to go, which gives Canada another proven scoring option and a competitive edge as the intensity ramps up.
Marchand’s return brings not only offensive punch but also the kind of playoff-style grit that tends to shine in elimination games. His presence in the top six could be a difference-maker as Canada gears up for what’s likely to be a physical, tightly contested quarterfinal.
Momentum and Depth on Canada’s Side
With three straight wins under their belt and a bye through the play-in round, Canada enters the quarters rested, confident, and - crucially - getting healthier. That’s a dangerous combination for any opponent.
Morrissey’s potential return would solidify an already strong defensive core, while Marchand’s presence up front adds leadership and scoring versatility. If both are cleared for game action, Canada will be fielding one of its most complete lineups of the tournament - just in time for the do-or-die rounds.
Puck drops Wednesday at 10:40 a.m. Central Time. Canada will be looking to punch its ticket to the semifinals - and with key pieces returning to the fold, they’re in a strong position to do just that.