Edmonton Oilers star could make Team Canada's for the 4Nations Face-Off

While his absence is not good for Team Canada's blue line, it opens the door for Edmonton Oilers defenseman Evan Bouchard to step in and take his place.

Elliotte Friedman reports that Team Canada has until February 11th to name a replacement and candidates include Dougie Hamilton, MacKenzie Weegar, Morgan Rielly, Drew Doughty and Evan Bouchard.

Despite some defensive struggles this season, Evan Bouchard has showed his elite offensive ability by scoring 37 points in 49 games as a defenseman.

His shot, passing and power-play skills make him one of the most dynamic puck-moving defensemen available for Team Canada.

However, Hockey Canada may lean toward more experienced or defensively reliable options like Drew Doughty or Morgan Rielly.

Drew Doughty has a decorated international resume that includes two Olympic golds, and MacKenzie Weegar's steady two-way game or Dougie Hamilton's well-rounded skill set could be taken before Evan Bouchard.

Whether Team Canada opts for Bouchard's youth and offensive upside or relies on experience, the decision will be important since the 4 Nations Faceoff begins February 12 and is leaving little time for speculation.

If chosen, Bouchard would gain valuable experience and an opportunity to take his place as one of Canada's top defensemen on the international stage.

And you, who do you think should make the team in replacement of Alex Pietrangelo?