While Team USA has booked its spot in the final of the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off after finishing at the top of the group table, their success came at a huge cost after Charlie McAvoy sustained an injury in his team’s recent victory against Team Finland. The ordeal resulted in the hospitalization of the seasoned defenseman, who is now continuing his recovery at Massachusetts General Hospital.
Here’s everything you need to know regarding McAvoy’s latest injury.
What happened to Charlie McAvoy?
The Boston Bruins have confirmed that Charlie McAvoy suffered an injury to the AC joint in his right shoulder.
The unfortunate incident occurred during Team USA’s final round-robin clash against Team Finland on February 13, which ended in a 6-1 win for Mike Sullivan’s team. After returning to Boston, the 27-year-old NHL professional experienced increased pain. The Bruins’ medical staff scheduled X-rays, MRIs, and bloodwork. These tests revealed an infection in McAvoy’s right shoulder along with his joint injury.
The IIHF World Championship bronze medalist has since checked into Massachusetts General Hospital. The Bruins’ Head Team Physician, Dr. Peter Asnis, shared an update on the team’s X (formerly Twitter) account. He stated that McAvoy “underwent an irrigation and debridement procedure” due to his injury. The defenseman is currently “being treated with IV antibiotics.” His condition is steadily improving.
It remains unclear how long McAvoy will be sidelined due to his shoulder injury. In a Tuesday press conference, Team USA’s head coach and McAvoy’s father-in-law, Mike Sullivan, expressed his disappointment over the player’s condition. “I’m disappointed for him because, first and foremost, he’s a great kid and a terrific hockey player. Under all the circumstances, he’s in good spirits. I know he is obviously disappointed he won’t be able to play for a championship,” the veteran coach stated, as per CBS News.
McAvoy’s injury will also prevent him from playing in the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off final on Thursday. In the championship game, Team USA will face a dominant Team Canada at Boston’s TD Garden.
