NHL 4 Nations Face-Off 2025: Updated Standings, Predictions After USA vs. Sweden

Though it had no chance of reaching the title game, Sweden capped off the 4 Nations Face-Off with a 2-1 victory over the United States on Monday.

The United States struck first as Chris Kreider found the net just 35 seconds into the game. Sweden's Gustav Nyquist answered a few minutes later to tie things up.

Sweden's Jesper Bratt gave his team the lead heading into the second period.

Bratt's first period goal was the last of the contest as both team's went scoreless through the second and third periods. Luckily for Team USA, a win was unnecessary having already punched a ticket to the title game.

Here's a look at the updated standings after the game.

2025 NHL 4 Nations Face-Off Standings

USA (6 points)

Canada (5 points)

Sweden (5 points)

Finland (2 points)

2025 NHL 4 Nations Face-Off Remaining Schedule

Thursday, February 20

USA vs. Canada, Championship Game, 8 p.m. ET (ESPN+, ESPN, SN, TVAS)

2025 NHL 4 Nations Face-Off Predictions

United States Relies on Defense in Rematch

Team USA has played well on offense throughout 4 Nations, but its defensive effort led it past Canada the first time around.

The United States' defense wasn't quite as impressive on Monday as it surrendered two goals to Sweden, but the team went into the match relaxed having already secured a spot in the 4 Nations Face-Off title game.

With the motivation of winning 4 Nations while simultaneously taking down its neighbors to the north, the United States defense should be on full display against Canada.

Connor Hellebuyck, who is making a strong case for his third Vezina Trophy, has been excellent in goal thus far, giving up just two goals in two games. Expect more dominance from the goaltender on Thursday.

It's worth noting that Team USA dealt with a handful of injuries on Monday, including one to Brady Tkachuk, who exited the game early, but it's unclear at this point who will be available on Thursday.

Canada Offense Comes up Short

It's impossible to count out a Canadian offense that features Conor McDavid, Sidney Crosby and others, but that group left much to be desired the first time around against the United States.

Despite attempting more shots than the United States, Canada found the goal just once on Saturday as Hellebuyck posted a .962 save percentage. Assuming Hellebuyck is back in the net for Team USA, it could be another frustrating night for Canada.

Luckily for Canada it will have more support on defense than it did in the last matchup against Team USA. Cale Makar, who missed Saturday's game due to illness, was back on the ice in a must-win game against Finland on Monday. Having him should serve as both a tactical boost and a morale boost and could help Canada prevent Team USA's offense from finding its rhythm.