A lower-body injury will keep forward Matthew Tkachuk from playing for Team USA against Sweden in the 4 Nations Face-Off game Monday night in Boston.

Tkachuk’s absence will not impact the United States in the standings. Team USA, undefeated in round-robin play, already has qualified for the title game, set for Thursday.

Ottawa Senators forward Brady Tkachuk told reporters on Monday that Matthew, his brother and teammate, will be ready for the final.

“He’ll be good to go for Thursday,” Brady Tkachuk said of his brother, who plays for the Florida Panthers. “Smart for him to rest up, knowing we’re already in for Thursday. He’ll be good to go.”

Chris Kreider will take Matthew Tkachuk’s place Monday in his first 4 Nations action.

“I’m very excited,” Kreider said. “It’s been a lot of fun up to this point. Just looking to play hard and help the team win.”

Defenseman Charlie McAvoy of the Boston Bruins also will miss the game due to an unspecified injury. McAvoy didn’t take part in the morning skate.

He will be replaced by Ottawa’s Jake Sanderson, who will be making his debut in the tournament.

–Field Level Media