Nathan MacKinnon shares his conversation with Sidney Crosby over Team Canada's lines for Four Nation Face-Off

By Ankit Kumar

Modified Jun 20, 2024 20:55 GMT

Nathan MacKinnon talked about a conversation he had with fellow NHL star Sidney Crosby regarding Team Canada's strategy for the upcoming Four Nation Face-Off. Speaking on TSN's OverDrive show, MacKinnon shared details of their discussion during a golf trip.

“I’ve thought about it a ton," MacKinnon said. "Me and Sid were on a golf trip, talking about the lines and the power play. I’d love to play right wing with him. The little kid in me, I’d gladly go to the wing. No problem. I can’t win faceoffs anyway, so that would work. That would be a dream.”

Both players have had remarkable seasons, with Crosby carrying the Pittsburgh Penguins through a challenging year, nearly leading them to the playoffs. Crosby registered his third 40-plus goal season, making him among the highest-scoring players over 35 in NHL history.

MacKinnon, on the other hand, achieved an impressive 51 goals and 140 points, spearheading the Colorado Avalanche's offense. He is also a Stanley Cup champion and gold medalist at the world championships.

Hailing from Nova Scotia, Crosby, MacKinnon and Brad Marchand form a formidable trio with deep ties to the region. They not only share a geographical connection but also train together during the off-season. This friendship could translate into a dynamic top line for Canada in the Four Nation Face-Off.

Tampa Bay Lightning coach Jon Cooper is expected to lead Team Canada.

Sidney Crosby and MacKinnon praised Connor McDavid's playoff performance

Sidney Crosby is spending his offseason in Europe and can't watch the live Stanley Cup games due to the time difference. Instead, he's keeping up with key moments and admires Connor McDavid's performance.

“It’s incredible what he’s doing,” Crosby said (via The Athletic). “Somehow, he’s found another level. In the playoffs (that’s tough to do), especially.”

McDavid is famous for his speed and skills and has reached new levels in the playoffs. He led the Edmonton Oilers to wins after trailing 3-0 against the Florida Panthers. His calm and great leadership impressed NHL stars like Nathan MacKinnon and Steven Stamkos.

“I think the coolest thing I admire is how calm he’s stayed down 3-0,” MacKinnon said. “No panic in his game, and he’s taken it to another level. Very even keel and (showing) amazing leadership for his team.”

Even during difficult times for the Oilers, McDavid's determination and game-changing abilities show he's among the greatest.