Why is Auston Matthews not playing tonight? Team USA's captain sits out 4 Nations game against Sweden

Team USA captain Auston Matthews will not be in the lineup against Team Sweden in their round-robin finale at the 4 Nations Face-Off. Matthews is reportedly sitting out the matchup with upper-body soreness.

According to insider Chris Johnston, the issue is not serious. As such, Matthews is expected to suit up in Team USA’s final game against Team Canada.

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Canada and the US will clash on Thursday night for the 4 Nations Face-Off championship. Matthews will lead the Americans as they hope to make it two wins in a row over Canada.

In the meantime, Chris Kreider will make his 4 Nations Face-Off debut for the American squad as they look to finish the round-robin portion with a perfect 3-0 mark.

About the author

Nestor is an NHL and MLB writer at Sportskeeda with over 10 years of experience. Growing up in Toronto, he became an avid Maple Leafs and Blue Jays fan, but also admires the New York Islanders and Los Angeles Dodgers for their dominance in the 80s. Holding an Economics and Education major, Nestor’s passion for writing and sporting events led him to take up reporting about the sport professionally.

Nestor credits the Leafs’ playoff runs in the early '90s as having a lasting impact on him. His favorite players are Doug Gilmour and Mike Bossy, as he feels they were tough, talented leaders, while Pat Burns is his favorite coach of all time for always preaching a fast-paced game.

Growing up in Canada, it was natural for Nestor to become interested in ice hockey and he played Minor Hockey as a teenager, which has given him a unique perspective on the sport. Nestor has mastered the art of how to best present facts and he also has a knack for knowing which sources can be trusted, and which can't for stories.

When he is not writing about Canada’s national passion, Nestor enjoys running and hiking.

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Edited by Brad Taningco