Canada and Finland are set to face off in a pivotal 4 Nations Face-Off game on Monday, February 17, 2025, at TD Garden in Boston. Both teams enter the matchup with two points each, making this game crucial for securing a spot in the championship final against the United States. What’s the best bet in tonight’s Canada vs. Finland matchup?
Canada vs. Finland Key Factors to Watch:
Cale Makar’s Status: Canada’s star defenseman, Cale Makar, missed the previous game against the United States due to illness. He participated in practice on Sunday, but his availability for the game against Finland remains uncertain. Makar’s presence would significantly bolster Canada’s defense and power play.
Finland’s Game Plan: To counter Canada’s speed and offensive prowess, Finland aims to control the game’s tempo. Head coach Jukka Jalonen emphasized the need for disciplined play, tight defensive formations, and minimizing Canada’s transition opportunities. Defenseman Henri Jokiharju highlighted the importance of avoiding odd-man rushes and maintaining a strong forecheck.
Goaltending Decisions: Canada’s starting goalie for this matchup has not been announced. Jordan Binnington started the first two games, posting a .896 save percentage. However, he did not participate in Sunday’s practice, with Adin Hill and Sam Montembeault taking the ice instead. The choice of goaltender could be pivotal in a game with high stakes.
Implications:
For Canada: A regulation win secures their spot in the championship game. An overtime or shootout victory would also suffice, provided Sweden does not defeat the United States in regulation.
For Finland: They need a regulation win to guarantee advancement. An overtime or shootout win would require the USA-Sweden game to avoid a regulation win for Sweden.
Canada vs. Finland Prediction
I like the under. Finland wants to slow the tempo of the game down to a crawl in order to keep the game within striking distance in the third period. They nearly accomplished these feat against the Americans in their opening game before the wheels fell off and Team USA scored four goals in the final frame.
Canada vs. Finland Prediction: UNDER 6.5