Lapsed fan's guide to the Olympic men's hockey tournament
The 2026 Milan Cortina Olympic men's ice hockey tournament begins Wednesday with round-robin play. It marks the first time NHL players have participated in the Winter Games since 2014.
Here’s a primer for this best-on-best tournament — for hockey die-hards and Olympic fans alike asking, “What’s a Tkachuk?”
Why Are NHL Players Back in the Olympics?
The NHL began sending players to the Winter Olympics in 1998. Since then, Canada has won three gold medals, including its last in the 2014 Sochi Games — the last time NHL players appeared in the Olympics.
For decades, the NHL and its players have debated Olympic participation. Players want to represent their countries on the world’s biggest stage. Owners, however, hesitate to pause the season without financial return from the IOC.
The NHL skipped the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics due to disagreements with the IOC and opposition from club owners. They also declined participation in 2022 Beijing due to COVID-19 disruptions.
After negotiations, the NHL confirmed in February 2024 that players would return for the 2026 Milan Cortina Games. Key issues like insurance, travel, and accommodation were resolved.
Why Isn’t Russia in the Tournament?
Russia and Belarus remain banned from IIHF events since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. As a result, several NHL stars will not participate.
This makes the 2026 tournament “best-on-most-of-the-best.” However, restrictions may change in future competitions.
Is U.S. vs. Canada Inevitable?
The United States and Canada enter as the two deepest teams in the tournament. Both feature elite talent across all positions and championship-winning coaches.
Canada boasts stars like Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, and Sidney Crosby. Their roster includes elite scorers, two-way forwards, and top defenseman Cale Makar.
Team USA counters with the Tkachuk brothers, Auston Matthews, Jack Eichel, and elite goaltender Connor Hellebuyck. Their depth may be the strongest in program history.
When Could They Meet?
The tournament features three groups. Canada is in Group A, USA in Group C, and Finland leads Group B alongside Sweden.
If both teams finish as top seeds and win through elimination rounds, they could meet in the gold medal game.
Major Concerns
Canada’s biggest question mark is goaltending. While improved from previous tournaments, it does not match U.S. depth in net.
For the United States, scoring consistency and Olympic experience remain concerns — especially in high-pressure elimination games.
Other Medal Contenders
Sweden is widely viewed as the third-best team, with a strong defensive core and capable goaltending.
Finland, the reigning gold medalist, remains dangerous despite key injuries.
Switzerland, Germany, Czechia, Slovakia, Denmark, Latvia, France, and Italy round out the field — each capable of surprises.
Olympic Rink Controversy
Construction delays raised concerns before the Games. However, venues were completed in time, though ice conditions were described as soft.
The rink dimensions will be slightly smaller than NHL standards, potentially increasing physical play.
Key Dates
Round-robin play begins Wednesday. The qualification round starts Feb. 17, quarterfinals on Feb. 18, semifinals Feb. 20, bronze medal Feb. 21, and gold medal game Feb. 22.
Will we witness another chapter in hockey’s greatest rivalry? The world is ready to find out.
