The Colorado Avalanche trio of Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar and Devon Toews had an easy excuse for missing Friday's practice. They needed a break after hoisting hockey's new trophy. MacKinnon, Makar and Toews helped Canada to a thrilling 3-2 overtime win over the United States in the 4 Nations Face-Off championship game on Thursday.

The 4 Nations Face-Off captivated not only the hockey world, but the entirety of the sports universe. As everyone watched Team Canada come out on top, three Avalanche players- Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar and Devon Toews- helped the hockey dynasty defend its spot at the top of international competition.

That was fun. Connor McDavid scored the overtime game-winning goal on Thursday to crown Team Canada as the 4 Nations Face-Off champions over Team USA. Nathan MacKinnon, Devon Toews, and Cale Makar all played a big role in Canada’s accomplishments.

Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar and Devon Toews helped Canada to a thrilling 3-2 overtime win over the U.S. in the 4 Nations Face-Off championship game. But there's not much time for rest as they quickly join the Avalanche in Nashville for a game Saturday.

Team Canada forward Connor McDavid (97) celebrates scoring in overtime to win with defenseman Devon Toews (5) and defenseman Cale Makar (8) and forward Mitch Marner (16) against Team USA during the 4 Nations Face-Off ice hockey championship game at TD Garden.

The Colorado Avalanche trio of Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar and Devon Toews had an easy excuse for missing Friday’s practice. They needed a break after hoisting hockey’s new trophy. MacKinnon, Makar and Toews helped Canada to a thrilling 3-2 overtime win over the United States in the 4 Nations Face-Off championship game on Thursday.