New news on Marie-Philip Poulin creates uncertainty ahead of quarterfinal

Marie-Philip Poulin Returns to Ice Ahead of Canada’s Quarterfinal

A key development emerged at Rho Arena on Friday morning as Marie-Philip Poulin returned to the ice. The 34-year-old superstar, sidelined since sustaining a lower-body injury in Canada’s preliminary-round clash with Czechia, participated in practice ahead of Saturday’s quarterfinal against Germany

Poulin’s absence has been felt deeply, forcing Canada to adapt quickly without its captain and emotional leader—especially after their tough loss to the United States, which left the team searching for answers.

Friday’s session, however, doesn’t guarantee she’ll play. Poulin remains day-to-day, with another medical evaluation scheduled for Saturday before the Germany matchup.

She was among the first players on the ice, cautiously testing her right leg. While practice began slowly, she progressed to light passing and shooting drills. Poulin acknowledged she had tweaked her knee against Czechia and, though it’s feeling better, it still causes discomfort. Her presence, even in a limited capacity, adds an intriguing storyline as Canada enters the knockout stage.