The worst of Cale Makar's illness appears to be behind him.
Canadian head coach Jon Cooper told reporters on Tuesday he sees no reason why his team won't have its No. 1 defenceman for Thursday's 4 Nations Face-Off final against the U.S.
Makar was a late scratch due to an illness for Saturday's matchup between the North American neighbours that the U.S. won 3-1.
The Colorado Avalanche defenceman returned for Monday's must-win game against Finland and led Canadians in ice time.
Canada vs. USA in 4 Nations Face-Off final on Sportsnet
Fierce rivals Canada and the U.S. collide in Boston on Thursday for the 4 Nations Face-Off final. Full coverage begins on on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+ at 7 p.m. ET/ 4 p.m. PT.
Full broadcast schedule
"He just glides out there," Cooper said of Makar after Monday's win. "I was so glad to have him back."
Makar leads all NHL defencemen with 63 points (22 goals, 41 assists) in 57 games for the Colorado Avalanche this season.
You can watch the highly anticipated rematch between Canada and the U.S. on Thursday live on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+ starting at 8 p.m. ET / 5 p.m.
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