The NHL should bend the rules to allow the best defender in the world play for Team USA at 4 Nations Face-Off.

The math isn’t daunting for the Vancouver Canucks to secure an NHL playoff position. However, getting back to the big dance for the second consecutive season means there must be key additions — notably Quinn Hughes and Thatcher Demko returning from injury — and no further subtractions to ensure they won’t have to go on a crazy run in 27 remaining regular-season games.

Lankinen allowed four goals on 13 shots before getting the second-period hook in favour of Juuse Saros. It was a bitter 5-3 loss in which Finland had no answer for Canada’s speed, drive and finish. Finland scored three times in the third period,

Frank Seravalli – in relation to Mike Sullivan’s comments – said that Quinn Hughes was on his way to Boston. The US defense is not in full health and with Charlie McAvoy unable to play on Thursday, we thought Hughes was going to replace him in the lineup.

Canucks star Quinn Hughes would fly to the moon to play for Team USA. But he’s also realistic about keeping himself in the best condition he can in advance of his return from injury.

It’s been a busy day for the Vancouver Canucks. On Tuesday, it was reported that Quinn Hughes will replace Charlie McAvoy on Team USA’s 4 Nations Face-Off roster, as McAvoy was admitted to a local hospital on Monday.

Charlie McAvoy is out with a shoulder infection and Quinn Hughes isn't likely to be, also. The Vancouver Canucks captain -- sidelined with an oblique injury since Jan. 31 -- practiced for the second straight day on Wednesday in Vancouver,

Quinn Hughes replaces injured Charlie McAvoy in Team USA's 4 Nations Face-Off against Canada. Hughes, a top defenceman with 59 points in 47 games, missed the Canucks' last four games due to injury. He joins the team led by coach Mike Sullivan.

Hughes was named to the U.S. roster in June but bowed out due to an oblique injury. He can't play unless another defenseman is unavailable.