Why is Josh Morrissey not playing tonight? Team Canada announces replacement for 4 Nations Championship game against Team USA

Team Canada defenseman Josh Morrissey will not be in the lineup for the 4 Nations Face-Off Final on Thursday night at TD Garden in Boston.

The Athletic’s Chris Johnston reported that Morrissey will miss the final due to illness. Fellow Canadian defenseman Cale Makar was also ill last Saturday night.

In Josh Morrissey's place, Dallas Stars blue liner Thomas Harley will enter the lineup. Harley previously filled in for Makar against the United States last Saturday. He will likely play on the third pairing with veteran Drew Doughty.

There is no word on Morrissey’s status beyond Thursday. He could miss the Winnipeg Jets’ first regular-season game after the 4 Nations break, but more information is expected Friday.

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Team Canada blue-liners step up in Josh Morrissey’s absence in 4 Nations Face-Off final

Team Canada’s blue line was crucial in its 3-2 overtime win against Team USA in the 4 Nations Face-Off final. Despite missing Josh Morrissey and Shea Theodore, the Canadian defense played an exceptional game, holding its own against a potent American attack.

Beyond the tremendous defensive effort, Canada's blue line also contributed offensively. Thomas Harley, who had been called on an emergency basis to fill in for the ill Morrissey, earned an assist on Nathan MacKinnon’s opening goal in the first period.

Harley made a great move to open a lane for MacKinnon to shoot the puck and get it past Team USA netminder Connor Hellebuyck.

Here’s a look at the goal:

Later, Colorado Avalanche Norris Trophy winner Cale Makar added an assist on Connor McDavid's game-winner in overtime. Makar circled the puck along the boards, getting it to Mitch Marner, who then made a beautiful pass to McDavid for the overtime winner.

Here’s a look at McDavid’s winner:

Makar was crucial in moving the puck around, keeping it in Team Canada’s possession. Makar played over 28 minutes on the night alongside his Colorado Avalanche teammate Devon Toews. Harley played nearly 22 minutes over 31 shifts, with Drew Doughty also playing over 20 minutes.

Travis Sanheim and Colton Parayko played well in a shutdown role, logging 18:29 and 17:49, respectively.

Overall, the Canadian blue line did an excellent job of holding the American attack at bay while also contributing offensively. In such a close game, it was the defense that made a significant difference for Team Canada. They avenged their 3-1 loss in their first meeting against the Americans last Saturday night and took the 4 Nations Face-Off title.