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Connor McDavid paired with new Team Canada linemates after mess with Mitch Marner

Originally posted on Oilers Daily | By Liam McCormick | Last updated Feb 16, 2025 11:05 PM ET

After losing a critical game against Team USA, Team Canada is expected to shake up Connor McDavid's line for their next matchup against Finland.

Connor McDavid scored an electric goal to open the game, but unfortunately couldn't buy Canada another goal. In the back half of the game, Coach Cooper began shifting the lines.

Team Canada expected to shake up lineup after trying new combinations against USA

In the third period of last night's game, Jon Cooper made a change to bump Mitch Marner and Sam Reinhart off Connor McDavid's line, while moving up Sidney Crosby and Mark Stone.

There was some real concern that Jordan Binnington's goaltending cost the team, or the Americans playing quality defence - but Team Canada can't expect to win with one goal.

After a clear lack of chemistry between McDavid and his wingers, it was a needed change that could continue through the tournament. Mitch Marner in particular seemed to fight the puck on McDavid's line, and Sam Reinhart didn't made any impact.

During Canada's first game, McDavid and Marner got into a heated discussion on the bench about their play.

If this lineup continues, it will be a dream to have Sidney Crosby and Mark Stone play the wings alongside Connor McDavid.

Crosby had a three point game against Sweden and McDavid scored their only goal last night - pairing the offensive stars together could work. They're the two biggest faces of Canadian hockey, and they'll certainly be motivated to play together.

Canada's next game against Team Finland is a must-win-in-regulation game. Only then could Canada clinch a rematch against the USA in the final. If not, they'll play for third place.

This article first appeared on Oilers Daily and was syndicated with permission.

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