Jordan Binnington, Colton Parayko, and Team Canada are headed to the 4 Nations Face-Off championship game after securing a 5-3 win over Finland on Monday. The victory sets up a highly anticipated rematch with Team USA in Thursday’s final at TD Garden in Boston (7 p.m. CT, ESPN).
This showdown will revisit one of the tournament’s most thrilling games, where the U.S. defeated Canada 3-1 in round-robin play on Saturday. Both squads advanced to the championship after finishing ahead of Finland and Sweden in the standings, and Thursday’s clash predicts to be just as intense.
Binnington Standing Tall in Net
Binnington has been a crucial part of Canada’s run to the final, starting all three games—making him the only goaltender in the tournament to do so for his country. Despite allowing a few goals he’d likely want back, Binnington has been solid overall, posting a 2-1-0 record with a 2.60 goals-against average and a .892 save percentage. He is the second-winningest among all goaltenders in the event, trailing only American standout Connor Hellebuyck.
One of the biggest challenges Binnington has faced is the sheer volume of shots. The Blues netminder has seen 74 shots over three games—the highest shot total any goalie has faced in the tournament. His ability to withstand that pressure and keep Canada in close games has been vital, especially heading into a rematch against a skilled U.S. offense.
Parayko’s Steady Play and Surprising Fight
On the defensive side, Parayko has taken on a critical shutdown role. Paired with Winnipeg Jets defenseman Josh Morrissey, Parayko has anchored Canada’s second defensive unit and played significant minutes on the top penalty-killing group. Through three games, he has averaged 19:39 of ice time, registered five shots on goal, and holds a +1 plus/minus rating.
Parayko also gave fans something they rarely see—a fight. In the first matchup against the U.S., which featured three fights overall, Parayko dropped the gloves in an uncharacteristic moment of physicality.
Blues Representation Extends Off the Ice
The St. Louis Blues’ presence with Team Canada isn’t limited to the players. Blues General Manager Doug Armstrong heads the management group for Canada’s National Men’s Teams. Additionally, Blues Goaltending Coach David Alexander and Video Coordinator Elliott Mondou are part of Canada’s coaching staff for the tournament.
Looking Ahead to the Final
Thursday’s championship matchup offers Canada a chance at redemption after Saturday’s loss. With Binnington looking to continue his play in net and Parayko continuing his strong defensive play, Team Canada will aim to flip the script and take home the 4 Nations Face-Off title.
Fans can catch the action live at 7 p.m. CT on ESPN and ESPN+.