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Canada HC Jon Cooper opines superstars Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon need a "cut your losses" mentality instilled in them
Team Canada's head coach Jon Cooper emphasized the importance of a "cut your losses" mentality for superstars Connor McDavid and Nathan MacKinnon as they prepare for the 4 Nations Face-Off championship game against Team USA.
Cooper explained that while McDavid and MacKinnon are skillful, effective puck management is crucial.
He emphasized that in high-pressure situations, not every shift will result in a win, and sometimes the team needs to accept ties. Cooper believes that if the players can secure a mix of ties along with a few wins, it will contribute to a strong overall performance.
"Sometimes, you just have to cut your losses. Not every shift is going to be a win. Sometimes, there are ties. If you can have a whole bunch of ties and mix in a few wins without any losses, it is a pretty damn good game for you," Cooper told reporters on Tuesday.
Cooper acknowledged that while McDavid and MacKinnon are capable of dominating their opponents, they must accept that it's not possible all the time.
"That is the mentality we had to instill in the guys. These guys are superstars, and they expect to win every single shift. But in this environment, against this talent, you are not winning every shift. The enemy has a vote, too. They are going to make sure they are doing everything to stop you," Cooper said.
(from 2:27 mark onwards)
McDavid and MacKinnon have been key contributors for Team Canada in the tournament. MacKinnon has accumulated three goals while McDavid has netted twice in the 4 Nations Face-Off.
Sidney Crosby on Connor McDavid and Nathan MacKinnon's play against Finland
Connor McDavid and Nathan MacKinnon made a significant impact for Team Canada against Finland, scoring two goals within the first five minutes and setting the tone for a 5-3 victory.
The win secured Canada's spot in the final of the 4 Nations Face-Off. Team Canada captain Sidney Crosby praised the duo for their early contribution, noting that their plays were crucial.
They set the tone right away," Crosby said via NHL.com. "That's what you need, big plays from big-time players. They stepped up to get us the lead, get a start like that, get our feet under us."
Team Canada and Team USA are set to battle it out in the 4 Nations championship game on Thursday at TD Garden in Boston.
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