Panthers forward Sam Reinhart receives major demotion moments ahead of Team Canada's semi-finals match

The decision comes at a critical juncture for the Canadians. While the roster depth remains a massive advantage, Reinhart has struggled to find his rhythm in Milan.

Through four tournament games, the Florida Panthers sniper has been held scoreless, recording just a single assist during a lopsided win over France.

For a player who posted 57 goals just two seasons ago and has 27 goals in 57 NHL games this year, the lack of offensive output is glaring. Cooper and his staff are looking for more energy in the bottom six as they navigate a roster shuffled by the absence of captain Sidney Crosby.

Sam Bennett, who missed the quarterfinal due to illness, returns to the lineup and will slide into a regular rotation. Which effectively pushes Reinhart out of the top twelve.

The transition game and puck management will be vital against a disciplined Finnish trap. Reinhart is elite at finding soft ice on the power play, but Canada needs crisp passing and more physical engagement at even strength.

Sitting as the extra skater means his ice time will be limited to situational relief or special teams duty if the flow allows.

Over Reinhart's NHL career, he has built a reputation as a big-game performer. He scored the Stanley Cup-winning goal for Florida last summer, yet that magic hasn't translated to the international ice this month.

The Canadians survived a scare against Czechia in the quarterfinals. Now, with a spot in the gold medal game on the line, the coaching staff is prioritizing current form over past pedigree.

The margin for error is gone. One mistake sends you to the bronze medal game.

Reinhart must stay ready. In a short tournament, the narrative can change with one shift. If Canada's offense remains stagnant early against Finland, Cooper won't hesitate to go back to his bench.