Nick Kypreos, Justin Bourne and Sam McKee give a pulse check ahead of tonight's 4 Nations Face-Off final between Canada and USA with the stakes rising as they get closer to puck drop. They discuss whether the US surpasses Canada as a hockey nation with a win, the political backdrop of the game and whether the mistreatment of Charlie McAvoy's injury impacts the tournament's future. Later, Olympic Gold medalist and Hockey Hall of Famer Scott Niedermayer (28:23) helps tee up the game and shares how winner-take-all international games compare to NHL playoff intensity, the growth of Drew Doughty, how Cale Makar changes the matchup and much more. Finally, Nick, Justin and Sam discuss where this game ranks among the most important in recent history and how the hockey world gears back into the regular season slog.

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliates.