Crosby has had plenty of international experience while Maple Leafs superstar is the Americans’ most gifted scorer for next month’s best-on-best tournament.

The 4 Nations Face-Off captains and leadership groups for Canada, Finland, Sweden and the U.S. must guide their teams to a win with little margin for error.

Toronto Maple Leafs star Auston Matthews will captain the United States at the 4 Nations Face-Off. More coming. The Canadian Press

Auston Matthews being named Team USA captain comes as no great surprise but it is a testament to his health as he’s looked better in January than any other month this season.

Toronto Maple Leafs sniper Auston Matthews was named U.S. captain earlier Thursday. Tampa Bay Lightning defenceman Victor Hedman was tabbed to lead Sweden, while Florida Panthers centre Aleksander Barkov got the honours for Finland.

Pittsburgh Penguins star Sidney Crosby will captain Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Off. Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews will captain the United States, Tampa Bay Lightning defenceman Victor Hedman will captain Sweden, and Florida Panthers centre Aleksander Barkov will captain Finland.

Finland, Sweden, the United States, and Canada will reveal their captains for the 4 Nations Face-Off in February on Thursday.

Crosby also wore the "C" at the 2014 Sochi Games and 2016 World Cup. Canada is 45-5-0 in games when he has worn its sweater overall.

As speculation rises over which players may decide to sit out the upcoming 4 Nations Face-Off, Toronto Maple Leafs’ Auston Matthews will be suiting up for Team