In many ways, the poster children for the return of best-on-best hockey have long been Connor McDavid and Auston Matthews. The No. 1 picks from the 2015 and 2016 NHL drafts, respectively, McDavid and Matthews were teased with a version of it as teammates on the made-up Team North America youth squad at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey.

Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews stood silently after the 4 Nations Face-Off concluded. Edmonton Oilers superstar Connor McDavid won gold for Canada with his game-winning snap shot. The goal cemented Canada's revenge over the United States and capped off an incredible two weeks of international hockey.

Team USA captain Auston Matthews achieved a major feat in the 4 Nations Final despite the loss to Team Canada.