Canada’s Josh Morrissey is still out against France, but there is a catch

Team Canada is currently cruising to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, securing dominant wins over the Czech Republic and Switzerland. The offense was firing on all cylinders behind massive performances from Connor McDavid and Nathan McKinnon, who combined for six points in their last-gasp 5-1 triumph. However, the defensive rotation has faced some adversity following an undisclosed injury to Winnipeg Jets star Josh Morrissey.

After logging just over seven minutes in the tournament opener against the Czech Republic, Morrissey was forced to watch from the sidelines as Travis Sanheim made his Olympic debut. While the team continues to win convincingly, the health of their blue line remains the primary story as the preliminary round draws to a close.

According to a report by Daily Faceoff, Morrissey he has already been confirmed to be out for the upcoming game on Sunday against France.

Head coach Jon Cooper clarified the situation shortly after the win over the Swiss, and as TSN’s Pierre LeBrun noted on X, the coach is not ready to give up on his veteran defenderbut the catch is that he is not ruled out for the tournament.

The difference is crucial for Canada, as it suggests the medical staff sees a realistic path for Morrissey to return when the high-stakes quarter-finals begin next week.

Before the injury, Morrissey had a great NHL season in Winnipeg, collecting 42 points in 56 games.

His presence on the left side, alongside the likes of Devon Toews and Shea Theodore, is seen as vital to Canada’s bid to regain Olympic gold in Italy.

While Canada remains hopeful of a quick recovery, the mood is much darker for Switzerland and the Los Angeles Kings.

Star forward Kevin Fiala abruptly ended his Olympic journey and an entire NHL season after an accidental collision with Tom Wilson.

Fiala required emergency surgery in Italy and will miss the rest of the year, a devastating update for a Kings team currently fighting for a postseason spot in the Western Conference.

As Canada prepares to face France, they do so with the luxury of roster depth and the encouraging news that Morrissey’s tournament isn’t necessarily over, providing a stark contrast to the end-of-season news surrounding Fiala.