Captain Auston Matthews makes feelings known after Team USA's 4 Nations loss to Team Canada

Auston Matthews' Team USA lost 3-2 in overtime against Team Canada in the 4 Nations Face-Off final at TD Garden on Thursday. Brady Tkachuk and Jake Sanderson scored for Team USA, with Matthews assisting both goals. However, goals from Nathan MacKinnon, Sam Bennett and Connor McDavid sealed the win for Canada.

Matthews expressed pride in his team despite the loss.

“Yeah, I mean, I’m super proud of this group,” Matthews told reporters. “I thought we battled our hearts out the whole tournament. Tonight, we had opportunities, and it didn’t happen, but I couldn’t be prouder of this group. I thought the whole tournament, everybody gave 100%.”

McDavid emerged as the hero for Team Canada with an overtime goal at 8:18. Mitch Marner set up the play, leaving McDavid open to shoot past Connor Hellebuyck.

"It's a great game. It's a great sport. And I hope we put on a good show these last couple days and gained some fans. Ultimately, you can't ask for a better show than that," McDavid said after the win.

The US has not won a best-on-best international tournament since the 1996 World Cup of Hockey.

Auston Matthews' underwhelming numbers at 4 Nations

Team USA started strong with a 6-1 win over Finland. They then defeated Canada 3-1, shutting down their offense after Connor McDavid’s early goal. A 2-1 loss to Sweden followed, but Team USA had already secured a spot in the final.

Matthews amassed three points in three games. He had two assists in the final. His plus-minus rating was +1 and he averaged more than 20 minutes per game. However, Matthews took only six shots throughout the event.

Despite his underwhelming numbers, his leadership shone through.

“He’s such a great player, I think someone that just imposes his will,” Dylan Larkin said. “He’s our captain, and he played like it tonight. And it is inspiring for all of us."