Photo credit: Screenshot
The waiting is over, and Jon Cooper has finally shown his hand ahead of Team Canada’s opening matchup against Czechia. And honestly, it’s not just a lineup reveal, it’s a statement.
First, let’s address the biggest ripple on the Czech side: Karel Vejmelka won’t dress. Let’s be honest, his absence is a tough blow for the Czechs.
He’s a goalie who can steal a game all by himself, the kind of presence that gives an underdog real belief. Without him, there’s one less safety net behind a team that’s about to face waves of world-class shooters.
When you’re staring down names like Nathan MacKinnon and Connor McDavid, losing a game-breaker in net changes everything.
But the headline that really has people talking is on Canada’s side, and it involves the captain of the Montreal Canadiens.
Forget the earlier chatter about a conservative, defense-first assignment. Nick Suzuki didn’t get a “safe” role. He got a promotion. And not a small one either.
Suzuki is set to line up on the right wing of the first line, alongside MacKinnon and Brandon Hagel. For Suzuki, the scenario is straight out of a movie: he goes from a potential supporting role to a prime seat next to the most explosive player on the planet.
Let’s call it like it is: Cooper is sending a clear message by putting Suzuki there. He wants intelligence, poise, and defensive responsibility to balance MacKinnon’s firepower and pace. Suzuki’s detail and two-way reliability give that top unit structure — the kind that keeps a line dangerous even when it’s not scoring.
Jordan Binnington gets the start against Czechia
Now to the other critical decision: Team Canada’s starter in goal. After Cooper stayed quiet as long as he could, the confirmation is out, Jordan Binnington gets the net for Game 1.
The choice is logical, Binnington is a Stanley Cup winner who doesn’t shy away from pressure, he feeds off it.
With Darcy Kuemper left aside this morning, the spotlight narrowed quickly, and now Binnington carries the responsibility of setting the tone immediately.
In a short tournament, there’s no room for passengers and no room for mistakes. But now Canada has a goalie, Canada has a lineup — and the real hockey can finally begin.
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Nick Suzuki gets promotion as Team Canada reveals lineup ahead of Czechia opener
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