Connor McDavid highlights the importance of Sam Bennett and Brad Marchand on Team Canada
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Julien Trekker
Feb 21, 2026 (9:51)
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Photo credit: James Lang-Imagn Images
Connor McDavid addressed the media today as Team Canada’s acting captain, following the lower-body injury to Sidney Crosby. While the hockey world holds its breath for Crosby’s status in the final, McDavid shared his opinion on a new line combination used by Jon Cooper.
Cooper deployed a trio of noted agitators, with Brad Marchand, Sam Bennett, and Tom Wilson all going out on the ice at the same time during the frantic third-period comeback against Finland. It was a move that changed the momentum of the entire tournament.
They didn't generate much offense, with Tom Wilson recording the lone assist among them on Shea Theodore's equalizer. However, their impact was measured elsewhere.
As expected, they brought immediate momentum with heavy shifts in the offensive zone. Their forecheck was relentless, forcing the Finnish defenders into turnovers and keeping the puck pinned deep.
McDavid opens up on Sam Bennett, Brad Marchand, and Tom Wilson's impactful line at Olympic Games
Brad Marchand’s ability to get under the skin of goaltenders was on full display when he barreled into Juuse Saros just before the tying goal.
Sam Bennett, fresh off a physical playoff run in Florida, provided the heavy lifting in the corners.
Today, at a press conference, McDavid noted that having that trio on the same side is a luxury, and joked about how many fines that line got over the years:
"It's pretty funny to see them all together. I don't know how many millions in fines they've contributed all together as a line."
With the gold medal game against the United States looming, McDavid expects this line to play a massive role. Their physical presence will be vital against a fast and gritty American roster.
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Sam Bennett and Brad Marchand make a surprising confession after the semifinal win against Finland
Sam Bennett and Brad Marchand make a surprising confession after the semifinal win against Finland