When Mike Matheson skated into Team Canada’s locker room for the 2025 IIHF World Championship, he knew immediately: this was a different kind of squad. A special one.
“It’s better to be with them than against them,” Matheson said with a grin after Canada’s dominant 5-1 win over Team Czechia, and it’s not hard to see why. With stars like Connor Bedard, Cale Makar, and Sidney Crosby donning the maple leaf, Matheson finds himself surrounded by a dizzying level of talent — and he’s thriving in it.
“I’ve played against a lot of these guys in the NHL. You know how dangerous they are. But when they’re wearing the same jersey as you? You just feel this overwhelming confidence,” Matheson said. “Every time we step on the ice, it feels like something electric is about to happen.”
From Adversary to Ally
Matheson, a standout for the Montreal Canadiens, has spent years trying to shut down many of the same players he’s now calling teammates. Facing off against Connor McDavid or watching a Nathan MacKinnon rush from the wrong end of the ice? That’s enough to keep any defenseman awake at night.
Now, instead of bracing for impact, he’s joining the charge — and playing some of the best hockey of his life. Matheson has already tallied 1 goal and 3 assists in the tournament, feeding off the high-octane energy of Canada’s star-studded roster.
“We All Want Gold”
But this team isn’t just a fantasy lineup of highlight-reel names — it’s a tight-knit group chasing one goal: gold. And Matheson, one of the more experienced international veterans on the squad, has become a steadying presence on the blue line.
“There’s a hunger in this room,” he said. “It doesn’t matter if you’re a rookie or a three-time Cup winner. Everyone’s locked in. Everyone wants it.”
Team Canada is currently undefeated in round-robin play and has outscored opponents 26-7. With knockout rounds looming, Matheson believes the best is yet to come.
“We’re Just Getting Started”
“We’re building chemistry fast,” he added. “The scary part for other teams is — we’re just getting started.”
As the tournament barrels toward its dramatic conclusion, one thing is clear: Matheson and Team Canada aren’t just playing to win — they’re playing with the kind of swagger and unity that makes history.
And for Mike Matheson, being with this team instead of against them? That’s the best move of all