It has been more than a decade since the NHL last participated in the Olympics and almost nine years since the league's top players took part in an international tournament. That wait is about to end when the puck drops on the 4 Nations Face-Off involving the United States,

Instead of an All-Star Game, the NHL will hold a midseason international tournament called the 4 Nations Face-Off. Here's everything to know.

Here's an explainer on what is and isn't permitted under league rules while the 4 Nations Face-Off is being played.