Cale Makar

Cale Makar: Canada’s Defenseman Whose Absence Felt Like Missing Maple Syrup at Pancake Breakfast!

Cale Makar’s comeback lineup for Canada is like finding your favorite pair of mittens in winter! Discover how he helped Team Canada steal the spotlight back from illness!

Cale Makar, former Norris Trophy winner and Alberta native, is set to return in a crucial matchup for Team Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Off against Finland. After missing a game due to illness, his return is like a breath of fresh Canadian air, bringing not only skill but also a sense of balance to the lineup that had been lacking without him. Think of him as the marshmallow in your hot cocoa—totally boosts the experience!

Prior to the 4 Nations Face-Off, Makar recorded a solid performance during Canada’s thrilling overtime victory over Sweden, logging significant ice time and showcasing why he’s considered Canada’s top defenseman. However, being sidelined for a couple of days meant that his compatibility on the ice was questioned, leaving fans biting their nails like kids during a dentist visit. But fret no more! Makar participated in pre-game warmups—a promising sign for the fans eagerly awaiting his return in the must-win game.

In his comeback on Monday, Makar dazzled with an impressive performance, leading the team in ice time and contributing significantly to Canada’s 5-3 victory over Finland. His robust presence on defense and the ability to support his teammates on the offense was like showing up to a potluck with Tim Hortons donuts—everyone's day just got a whole lot better! The matchup was crucial for Canada, who had faced fierce competition and could not afford another loss.

With Canada trailing slightly in the tournament standings following a previous defeat to the U.S., Makar’s return was a pivotal moment. His resilience and determination are inspiring not only for his teammates but also for young players across Canada aspiring to reach the heights he's achieved. As they say, hockey is not just a sport here—it's a passion, a way of life, and players like Cale Makar embody that spirit!

Fun fact: Cale Makar was born in Calgary, Alberta and is part of a growing trend of elite Canadian defensemen who have transformed the way the position is played in the NHL. Another interesting tidbit—he was also a star player in college hockey before entering the NHL, winning the Hobey Baker Award as the top college player in 2019! Tune in to cheer for Canada and watch Makar light it up on the rink!