Canada 2026 Olympic Roster

With the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo fast approaching, hockey fans across Canada are already buzzing about the potential roster that could don the red and white. After missing out on NHL participation in the 2018 and 2022 Games, the return of the world’s best players to the Olympic stage makes this selection process more intriguing than ever.

While nothing is set in stone until Hockey Canada makes its official selections, speculation is running rampant about who will represent Canada in their quest for gold. Based on current performances, historical success, and projected development over the next two seasons, we break down what could be a powerhouse lineup capable of dominating in Italy.

Forwards

Offense wins games, and with the staggering depth of talent available to Team Canada, picking 14 elite forwards is no easy task. Veterans, emerging superstars, and generational talents will all be fighting for a spot.

First Line

• Connor McDavid (C) – Simply put, the best player in the game right now. McDavid’s explosive speed and unreal playmaking make him the perfect first-line center.
• Nathan MacKinnon (RW) – His blend of strength, speed, and skill makes him an ideal complement to McDavid.
• Sidney Crosby (LW) – If he’s still at the top of his game by 2026, Crosby’s hockey IQ and leadership will be invaluable.

Second Line

• Brayden Point (C) – Clutch performer with silky hands who thrives in big moments.
• Mitch Marner (RW) – Dynamic playmaker with elite hockey sense.
• Brad Marchand (LW) – If he maintains his high level of play, his grit and skill could be crucial.

Third Line

• Connor Bedard (C) – The future of Canadian hockey could force his way onto the team.
• Jonathan Huberdeau (LW) – Playmaker with a high offensive ceiling.
• Robert Thomas (RW) – Emerging as one of the most underrated two-way forwards.

Fourth Line

• Ryan O’Reilly (C) – A leader with a defensive acumen second to none.
• Mathew Barzal (RW) – Speed and skill that make him an offensive threat.
• Mark Stone (LW) – A responsible winger who produces in key situations.

Extras

• Jordan Kyrou – Brings scoring punch and versatility.
• Nick Suzuki – A future captain material with a complete game.

Defense

The blue line will be built on skill, size, and two-way domination. With a mix of established stars and rising talents, Canada’s defensive corps could be as strong as ever.

Top Pairing

• Cale Makar (RD) – The most electrifying defenseman in the NHL, his transition game is unreal.
• Aaron Ekblad (LD) – Strong in his own zone while possessing offensive upside.

Second Pairing

• Devon Toews (LD) – Smooth-skating, rock-solid in crucial moments.
• Dougie Hamilton (RD) – Brings physicality and offensive punch.

Third Pairing

• Thomas Chabot (LD) – A puck-moving defenseman who logs big minutes.
• Adam Pelech (RD) – Defensive stalwart who excels in shutdown roles.

Extras

• Morgan Rielly – Steady, offensive-minded, and can fit multiple roles.
• Bowen Byram – A rising star with elite talent.

Goaltenders

Goaltending has been a question mark for Canada in recent years, but they still have solid options between the pipes.

Starter

• Carter Hart – If he continues his upward trajectory, he could be the answer in net.

Backups

• Jordan Binnington – Big-game experience makes him a viable option.
• Darcy Kuemper – Solid, reliable, and capable of stealing games.

Canada’s Path to Gold

Given the sheer amount of talent available, Canada will go into the 2026 Olympic tournament as one of the favorites to win gold. However, that doesn’t mean it’ll be easy. They’ll have to contend with a loaded Team USA, a revitalized Russian squad (if allowed), and the ever-dangerous Swedes and Finns.

The key for Canada will be chemistry. Talent alone doesn’t always win tournaments, as evidenced by the 2006 disaster in Torino. Getting the right roster balance, strong goaltending, and disciplined team play will be crucial.

Expect an intense battle for roster spots leading up to the tournament, but regardless of who makes the final cut, Canada will be a force to be reckoned with.

“You don’t just play for Canada, you carry the weight of a nation.” – Wayne Gretzky

Stay tuned, hockey fans. The road to gold in 2026 is heating up.

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Mikaela Shiffrin’s Olympic Setback

Mikaela Shiffrin is no stranger to the pressures of Olympic stardom, but the latest updates from the US skiing landscape paint a daunting picture for the alpine legend as she gears up for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina.

The Uphill Battle for US Skiing

The United States has produced some of the greatest alpine skiers in history, and Shiffrin has carried the torch with unmatched prowess. However, a recent update from the world of skiing indicates that the US team might be facing a significant challenge ahead of the next Winter Games. With key infrastructure concerns, looming retirements, and a potential talent gap, Team USA’s competitive edge is in question.

A Lone Warrior on the Slopes?

For years, Mikaela Shiffrin has been the backbone of US alpine skiing. With 95 World Cup victories and counting, she stands as the most decorated skier in history. However, she might find herself shouldering an even heavier burden come 2026. The latest reports suggest that beyond Shiffrin, the US ski team lacks the same level of depth and dominance that propelled them to glory in past Olympic cycles.

“You need an entire system to support long-term Olympic success, not just one or two athletes.”Former US Olympic coach

Red Flags for US Skiing’s Future

Several factors have contributed to the growing concerns around Team USA’s performance potential in the next Winter Olympics:

• The Talent Pipeline: Unlike powerhouse European nations such as Switzerland and Austria, the US pipeline for developing alpine stars appears to be thinning. While young skiers are emerging, they may not be ready to compete at Shiffrin’s elite level by 2026.
• Infrastructure Challenges: Reports indicate that training facilities and development programs are struggling to keep pace with international competition, putting the team at a disadvantage.
• The Shiffrin Dependency: While having a once-in-a-generation star like Shiffrin is a blessing, relying too much on one athlete creates fragility. If she faces injury or performance struggles, Team USA’s medal hopes could take a hit.

What This Means for Shiffrin

Shiffrin has rewritten the history books, but even for an athlete of her caliber, winning alone is a tall order. The lack of a strong supporting cast in key disciplines means she may face heavier pressure in Milan-Cortina. With limited team momentum, Shiffrin’s Olympic challenge isn’t just about personal excellence; it’s about overcoming a broader systemic issue.

Can Team USA Regain Its Dominance?

All hope isn’t lost. The US has historically managed to produce breakout stars who rise to the occasion when it matters most. With two years remaining before the Winter Olympics, there is still time for young athletes to emerge and for US skiing authorities to address critical weak spots.

For now, though, the alarms are ringing. If Team USA doesn’t take urgent steps to revitalize its alpine program, Shiffrin could find herself in an all-too-familiar rolethe lone American carrying an entire nation’s medal hopes on her back.

What are your thoughts? Can Mikaela Shiffrin overcome this challenge, or does US skiing need a complete overhaul? Let us know in the comments!

Milano Cortina 2026 Luge Schedule

The icy thrill of luge racing is set to take center stage at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, promising high-speed action, fierce competition, and breathtaking moments on one of the most thrilling tracks in the world. As we count down to another unforgettable Olympic luge showdown, get ready to mark your calendars with all the must-watch events in the sport where every hundredth of a second counts!

When and Where is Olympic Luge Happening at Milano Cortina 2026?

Luge events in the 2026 Winter Olympics will take place from February 7 to February 14, 2026. The venue for all the high-speed action? The state-of-the-art Eugenio Monti Olympic Track in Cortina d’Ampezzo. This legendary track, known for hosting some of the most exhilarating sliding events in winter sports, will once again witness athletes pushing the limits of speed and precision.

Full Luge Event Schedule for Milano Cortina 2026

If you’re a fan of breathtaking speed and razor-sharp precision, the Milano Cortina 2026 luge events are sure to deliver unforgettable moments. Here’s a complete breakdown of the action:

Wednesday, February 5, 2026 – Training Sessions

• Men’s Singles Training
• Women’s Singles Training
• Doubles Training

Thursday, February 6, 2026 – Training Continues

• Men’s Singles Training
• Women’s Singles Training
• Doubles Training

Friday, February 7, 2026 – Men’s Singles Begins

• Men’s Singles – Run 1
• Men’s Singles – Run 2

Saturday, February 8, 2026 – Men’s Singles Conclusion

• Men’s Singles – Run 3
• Men’s Singles – Final Run (Medals Decided)

Sunday, February 9, 2026 – Women’s Singles Take the Ice

• Women’s Singles – Run 1
• Women’s Singles – Run 2

Monday, February 10, 2026 – Women’s Singles Finale

• Women’s Singles – Run 3
• Women’s Singles – Final Run (Medals Decided)

Tuesday, February 11, 2026 – Doubles Get in on the Action

• Doubles – Run 1
• Doubles – Final Run (Medals Decided)

Wednesday, February 12, 2026 – Team Relay Qualifiers

• Team Relay – Qualifying Runs

Thursday, February 13, 2026 – The Ultimate Showdown

• Team Relay – Medal Event

Friday, February 14, 2026 – Victory Celebrations!

• Medal Ceremonies & Wrap-Up

What’s New for Luge at Milano Cortina 2026?

While the fundamental format of luge remains unchanged, Milano Cortina 2026 introduces some key elements that could make this Olympic edition even more electrifying:

• Fresh Track Challenges: The Eugenio Monti Olympic Track is expected to feature refinements, ensuring a fast but technical challenge for athletes.
• Rising Stars vs. Legends: As always, the mix of new sensations and seasoned champions will create dramatic moments from start to finish.
• Team Relay Drama: The team relay event has grown significantly in popularity and always delivers edge-of-your-seat excitement.

Why You Can’t Miss Olympic Luge at Milano Cortina 2026

For those who love speed, precision, and adrenaline-pumping action, luge is non-stop drama on ice. The sport’s elite athletes can hit speeds of up to 140 km/h as they navigate the course with pinpoint control. With razor-thin margins between victory and heartbreak, expect some of the most gripping moments of the Olympics to unfold on the track.

Whether you’re an all-out luge enthusiast or a casual fan looking for unmissable Olympic moments, Milano Cortina 2026 will not disappoint. Tune in, feel the rush, and witness history in the making!

NHL Olympics Injury Concern

The excitement around the NHL’s decision to allow its players to participate in the 2026 Winter Olympics has suddenly been doused with concern. The recently concluded 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, which was meant to build hype and chemistry among national teams, instead raised alarm bells as several top NHL stars suffered injuries. This has led to growing debate over the league’s long-awaited return to the Olympics.

Injuries Start Raising Red Flags

The 4 Nations Face-Off, which featured Canada, the United States, Sweden, and Finland, showcased high-intensity hockey. However, the tournament also came with an unfortunate side effectinjuries. Key players went down, sparking concern about the physical toll international tournaments can have on NHL stars just months before the playoffs.

For team executives, coaches, and fans alike, the biggest fear isn’t just the injuries themselves, but their long-term impacts on an NHL season. The Olympics represent an even bigger risk, as they take place in February, right when the regular season is heating up.

Dangerous Precedent?

Historically, Olympic participation has had repercussions on NHL players’ health. Injuries sustained in international play have derailed NHL teams’ playoff hopes before. Some general managers are already growing uneasy, questioning whether the league can afford a full Olympic commitment.

With the NHL halting its Olympic participation after 2014, citing injury concerns and logistical struggles, some insiders believe this latest setback could reignite the debate about whether allowing players to compete in the Winter Games is worth the risk.

The Balancing Act: National Pride vs. NHL Priorities

Hockey is one of the few professional sports where international tournaments carry nearly the same prestige as league championships. For players, winning a gold medal for their country is a once-in-a-lifetime honor. However, for NHL stakeholders, the risks often outweigh the rewards.

What The Owners Are Thinking

Franchise owners aren’t thrilled about sending their multimillion-dollar assetsNHL playersto a physically grueling Olympic tournament where they could suffer injuries with direct repercussions on club performance.

The NHL eases its schedule for the Olympics, but teams still must navigate rapid shifts in momentum. Losing a top player in February due to an Olympic injury can be devastating for teams vying for playoff positioning.

Players Still Want In

Despite the risks, NHL players have consistently voiced their desire to represent their countries on the world’s biggest stage. Stars like Sidney Crosby, Connor McDavid, and Auston Matthews have long been vocal about the special nature of Olympic hockey.

The passion for Olympic participation remains unwavering, but the 4 Nations injury scare is forcing a tougher discussion on whether the risks might be too high this time around.

What’s Next for 2026?

With the NHL officially agreeing to participate in the 2026 Olympics in Milan, Italy, it’s now up to league officials and team executives to determine how to mitigate injury risks.

• Could load management strategies be implemented before the tournament?
• Should teams have more say in whether a player can go?
• Could insurance measures protect franchises from potential setbacks?

Expect these conversations to intensify as the Olympic date nears. While hockey’s biggest stars are eager to wear their national colors, the NHL’s powers-that-be must now weigh the excitement against the looming injury risks.

Final Thoughts

There’s no doubt that NHL participation in the Olympics makes for mesmerizing hockey. Fans crave it. Players live for it. But the concerns that arose from the 4 Nations tournament prove that the injury debate isn’t going away anytime soon.

The 2026 Winter Games remain on schedule, but after watching key stars suffer injuries in a short prelude event, NHL executives and team owners may already be biting their nails, wondering if sending their best players to Milan is worth the gamble.

Olympic Sport Dropped

The Olympic Games have long been a stage for athletes to showcase their talent on the world’s greatest sporting platform. However, not all sports can stand the test of time. In a decision that has stunned winter sports fans, Nordic combined has been officially dropped from the Olympic program starting with the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Games.

Nordic Combined: A Legacy Cut Short

For those unfamiliar, Nordic combined is an exhilarating winter sport that fuses ski jumping and cross-country skiing. It has been a fixture at the Winter Olympics since the inaugural games in Chamonix 1924, making this decision all the more shocking.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) cited concerns about global reach and popularity as primary reasons for its removal. While the men’s event has been contested for nearly a century, the relatively new women’s edition never even got its Olympic debut.

Why Was Nordic Combined Dropped?

The decision wasn’t made on a whim. The IOC considers several factors before axing a sport from the Games:

• Low Global Participation: Despite its rich history, Nordic combined remains dominated by a handful of European nations.
• Limited Female Inclusion: The sport struggled to achieve gender parity, with the women’s competition still playing catch-up.
• Audience Engagement: Compared to more popular winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and biathlon, Nordic combined drew smaller crowds and viewership numbers.

Ultimately, the lack of worldwide appeal spelled the end.

A Sport Without an Olympic Future?

For many athletes, the Olympics are the pinnacle of success. Losing that opportunity is devastating. Nordic combined stars have poured their lives into mastering this unique discipline, and without an Olympic stage, its future now looks grim.

“This is heartbreaking for our sport,” said Olympic medalist Eric Frenzel. “The Olympic Games were our ultimate goal, and now it’s gone.”

Without its Olympic spotlight, funding and participation in Nordic combined could dwindle, with fewer young athletes taking up the sport.

Who Benefits from This Decision?

While fans of Nordic combined mourn, other winter sports could be eyeing the vacated spot in the Olympic lineup. The IOC has been pushing for more gender-balanced options and urban-centered events.

Potential beneficiaries of this decision could include:

• Freestyle skiing – A rapidly growing discipline with high entertainment value.
• Snowboarding events – Already major crowd-pullers at every Winter Olympics.
• Women’s ice hockey expansion – A stronger push for developing the women’s game could gain traction.

Fans and Athletes Speak Out

Fans and former Olympians have voiced their disappointment over the decision. Many argue that rather than scrapping the sport, the IOC should have worked towards increasing its global appeal.

Several Nordic combined athletes are now left wonderingwhere do we go from here?

“Nordic combined is the essence of the Winter Olympics,” another athlete lamented. “It embodies everything about endurance and technique.”

Final Thoughts

The Olympic dream has ended for Nordic combined, at least for now. A sport with nearly 100 years of Olympic history has been unceremoniously dropped, leaving athletes and fans stunned.

While the world moves forward with newer and flashier winter sports, one can only hope the spirit of Nordic combined perseveres elsewhere.

Will we ever see it return? Only time will tell.

Olympic Ski Mountaineering Excites

The countdown to the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics is well underway, and one sport is generating tremendous buzzski mountaineering. Making its highly anticipated Olympic debut in the picturesque town of Bormio, this exhilarating discipline is set to captivate audiences with its mix of endurance, strategy, and sheer alpine brilliance.

The Rise of Ski Mountaineering in the Olympic Spotlight

Ski mountaineering, often referred to as skimo, is a thrilling blend of uphill ascents, daring descents, and strategic transitions. While the sport has long been a staple in high-altitude competitions, its inclusion in the 2026 Olympics signals a new era for competitive winter sports.

With its roots in the demanding terrain of the Alps, ski mountaineering demands an athlete’s peak physical endurance coupled with impeccable technical skills. The addition of this sport to the Olympic roster aligns perfectly with the event’s celebration of extreme winter challenges.

Bormio: The Perfect Venue for an Epic Debut

The historic Italian ski resort of Bormio will serve as the stage for ski mountaineering’s Olympic arrival. Known for its dramatic slopes and legendary history in Alpine skiing, this resort is no stranger to high-profile competitions.

The Olympic ski mountaineering course boasts breathtaking ascents and pulse-pounding descents, testing the limits of each competitor. The combination of steep climbs and rapid descents will push even the most seasoned athletes to their limits, making strategy and endurance equally critical.

Inside the Course: What Athletes Can Expect

While final details are still being refined, the course layout is designed to challenge athletes across multiple fronts:

• Vertical Climb – A relentless uphill battle where athletes must power through significant elevation gains.
• Technical Descents – Speed, precision, and in some cases, sheer bravery will be required.
• Transitions – The key to success in ski mountaineering lies in nailing the precarious switches between climbing and descending.

The ability to seamlessly transition from uphill trekking to downhill racing will define the sport’s first Olympic champions.

Athletes and Experts Weigh In

Some of the world’s top ski mountaineers have already shared their excitement about the sport’s Olympic inclusion. Veteran athletes have called it a “game-changer” that brings long-overdue recognition to a sport that has been thriving on mountain peaks for decades.

“This is a monumental moment. We’ve always dreamed of competing at the highest level, and now that dream becomes reality,” one ski mountaineering professional shared.

Coaches and analysts have also highlighted the discipline’s unique appeal. Unlike traditional Alpine skiing, which focuses primarily on downhill speed, ski mountaineering requires a delicate balance between endurance, agility, and tactical prowess.

Olympic Fans: Prepare for an Adrenaline Rush

As the world eagerly awaits the Milano-Cortina 2026 Games, ski mountaineering is shaping up to be a must-watch event. With its unpredictable nature, thrilling course design, and the breathtaking backdrop of Bormio, this competition will undoubtedly deliver unforgettable Olympic moments.

For winter sports enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies alike, ski mountaineering’s Olympic arrival is nothing short of exhilarating. Whether you’re a seasoned backcountry skier or a casual winter sports fan, this is one event you won’t want to miss.

Final Thoughts: A Historic Addition to the Winter Olympics

The inclusion of ski mountaineering in the Winter Olympic Games is a long-awaited triumph for the sport. It celebrates not just the skill and endurance of the athletes but also the raw beauty of mountain racing. As we edge closer to 2026, all eyes will be on Bormioready to witness history in the making.

Are you excited for ski mountaineering’s Olympic debut? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

Zibanejad Eyes 2026 Olympics

For New York Rangers star Mika Zibanejad, the dream of representing Sweden on the world’s grandest hockey stage is more alive than ever. With international NHL participation confirmed for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, the 31-year-old forward is eager to don the Tre Kronor jersey.

Olympic Dreams Reignited

After two consecutive Olympic tournaments without NHL participation (2018 and 2022), Zibanejad and many of his peers missed the chance to compete for their nations. Now, with the NHL officially back in the Olympic fold, the Swedish center is ready to seize the opportunity.

“It’s something I’ve always dreamed about,” Zibanejad expressed. “To get that chance in 2026 would be unbelievable.”

A Key Piece for Sweden

Zibanejad has been an impactful player for Sweden in past international tournaments. His speed, two-way play, and elite offensive ability make him a natural selection for Tre Kronor. With Sweden’s depth in talent, adding a seasoned NHL veteran like Zibanejad strengthens their chances of competing for gold.

His leadership in New York also speaks volumes. The alternate captain has been a driving force behind the Rangers’ success, proving he’s more than capable of rising to the occasion when the stakes are highest.

A Veteran Core in the Making

Looking ahead to 2026, Sweden will likely rely on a mix of established stars and emerging young talent. Players like Zibanejad, William Nylander, Elias Pettersson, and Victor Hedman could form a formidable core. Sweden’s historical success on the Olympic stageincluding a 2006 gold medalproves they have all the tools necessary to challenge for another championship.

From New York to Milan

While Zibanejad’s primary focus remains on the Rangers’ chase for the Stanley Cup, the thought of competing at the Olympics looms in the back of his mind. Few moments in hockey rival the thrill of representing one’s country, and given the energy he brings to the ice in the NHL, it’s safe to expect him to be just as dynamic on the Olympic stage.

With just under two years until the opening faceoff in Milan, the anticipation is already building. For Zibanejad, it could be a once-in-a-lifetime chance to etch his name in international hockey history.

Final Thoughts

For Swedish hockey fans, the chance to see Zibanejad in the Olympics is worth the wait. For Zibanejad himself, it’s the opportunity of a lifetime. If his NHL play is any indication, Sweden should have no doubts about the impact he can bring in 2026.

For now, though, his focus remains locked on the Rangers and their pursuit of the ultimate NHL prize. But come Milan, don’t be surprised if he’s once again making wavesthis time, on the world stage.

NHL Players 2026 Olympics?

The Winter Olympics have long been a grand stage for the world’s best hockey players to showcase their talent. But since the NHL last participated in the 2014 Sochi Games, fans have been left wondering with each Olympic cycle: will NHL stars suit up for their countries once again?

After the league chose to skip both the 2018 PyeongChang and 2022 Beijing Olympics, hope is rekindled for 2026 in Milan-Cortina. So, will Connor McDavid, Auston Matthews, and Nathan MacKinnon finally get their Olympic moment? Let’s break it all down.

Will NHL Players Be in the 2026 Olympics?

The short answer: most likely, yes. The NHL and its players’ association, the NHLPA, have reached a preliminary agreement with the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) that would allow NHL players to participate.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman confirmed in a February 2024 press conference that an agreement is in place for 2026 and 2030 Olympic participation. While agreements have fallen apart before, all involved parties seem firmly committed this time around. Barring any unforeseen setbacks, NHL stars will be lacing up for their respective nations in Milan.

Why Did NHL Players Miss the Last Two Olympics?

Hockey fans have spent nearly a decade watching Olympic teams built without NHL talent, and there were a few key reasons for the league’s absence in 2018 and 2022.

• 2018 – PyeongChang: The NHL and IOC failed to reach a financial agreement, particularly regarding travel and insurance costs for NHL players. The league also disliked the idea of pausing its regular season for more than two weeks.
• 2022 – Beijing: Originally, NHL participation was included in the league’s collective bargaining agreement. However, the COVID-19 pandemic wreaked havoc on the NHL schedule, leading to the league’s withdrawal due to concerns over quarantines and disruptions.

How NHL Players Feel About the Olympics

If you ask most hockey superstars, playing for their country at the Olympics is as big as it gets. Players like McDavid and MacKinnon, despite their numerous NHL accolades, have never had the chance to play in a best-on-best international tournament at the senior level.

Sidney Crosby, whose legendary “Golden Goal” in 2010 secured Canada’s gold medal in Vancouver, has openly advocated for NHL participation, saying,

“For hockey, having the best players in the world compete at the Olympics is important.”

It’s no surprise then that the NHLPA has pushed for inclusion at the 2026 Olympics, and it appears those efforts have finally paid off.

Which NHL Stars Could We See in Milan?

If everything proceeds as planned, Milan-Cortina 2026 could feature some of the greatest talent to ever step onto Olympic ice. Here’s a look at potential players who could headline their respective teams:

• Canada: Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, Sidney Crosby, Cale Makar
• USA: Auston Matthews, Jack Hughes, Adam Fox, Jason Robertson
• Sweden: Victor Hedman, Elias Pettersson, William Nylander
• Finland: Aleksander Barkov, Mikko Rantanen
• Czech Republic: David Pastrnak
• Russia (if eligible): Nikita Kucherov, Alex Ovechkin

This would mark the first time since 2014 that the NHL’s top talent goes head-to-head in a true global best-on-best tournament.

What’s Next for the NHL and the Olympics?

Despite the excitement, there’s still work to be done to finalize the details. The NHL and the IOC must iron out specifics regarding player insurance, travel logistics, and how the league’s schedule will accommodate a lengthy Olympic break.

But for now, hockey fans can finally start dreaming about what a McDavid vs. Matthews Olympic showdown might look like. The world’s best players are (almost) officially heading back to the biggest stage, and the 2026 Winter Olympics just got a whole lot more exciting.