Star forward Nathan MacKinnon says he feels fine after taking a high hit late in Canada’s lopsided victory over France Sunday at Milano Cortina 2026.
With just under seven minutes remaining in the third period, France’s Pierre Crinon caught MacKinnon in the face with a forearm behind the French net that knocked the Colorado Avalanche centre to the ice. He was slow to get up but remained on Canada’s bench to finish the game.
Crinon, who was given a two-minute minor on the play, apologized to MacKinnon after the incident. However, things stayed chippy as the third period wound down and Canada forward Tom Wilson and Crinon went at it after a whistle, resulting in a fighting game misconduct for each player.
“He said ‘Sorry,’ so thanks I guess for saying sorry. Yeah, obviously I appreciate Tom for sticking up for me,” MacKinnon said, adding the team does not believe Wilson will be suspended for Canada’s next game.
“I don’t think Tom started anything, you know? He just responding to a dirty hit. So, like I said, I appreciate it.”
MacKinnon had one assist in 16:56 of ice time during Canada’s 10-2 victory and now has five points in three games so far at the Olympics.
Macklin Celebrini continued his strong play at Milano Cortina 2026 on Sunday, leading the way with two goals and an assist in the eight-goal victory.