2026 Winter Olympics: A Look at the Men’s Hockey Teams
The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan are generating excitement, especially for hockey fans. For the first time since 2014, the world’s best players from the NHL will be competing for their countries, bringing a new level of intensity to the games.
After the 2022 Olympics was faced with scheduling issues created by the COVID-19 pandemic and was unable to facilitate NHL participation, the return of these players will reignite classic rivalries, including the anticipated clash between the United States and Canada. However, several other teams are also hoping to win a medal.
Here’s a look at the 12 teams competing, ranked based on their chances of winning gold:
1. Canada:
Canada enters the Olympics as a favorite. Their roster is expected to be similar to the team that recently won the 4 Nations Face-Off. Star players like Sidney Crosby, Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, and Mitch Marner lead a strong offense. Cale Makar anchors the defense. One potential concern is goaltending, but the team’s strong defense could help minimize any issues.
2. United States:
The United States is Canada’s biggest threat. After a close match in the 4 Nations Face-Off, the Americans are bringing a talented roster to Milan. Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck gives the U.S. an advantage in net, and the defense is improved with the addition of a healthy Quinn Hughes. Auston Matthews, Jack Eichel, and the Tkachuk brothers lead the offense.
3. Sweden:
Sweden remains a strong contender, despite some injuries. While the loss of Leo Carlsson may weaken their center position, they still have a strong defense and William Nylander leading the offense. The key for Sweden will be goaltending; if one of their goalies can perform well, they could challenge Canada and the U.S.
4. Finland:
Finland has a deep roster, but lacks some of the star power of the top teams, aside from Mikko Rantanen, Sebastian Aho, and Miro Heiskanen. The team has enough experience to contend for a spot on the podium, especially if Rantanen has a great tournament. However, they may struggle to prevent goals against top offensive teams.
5. Czechia:
Czechia has not won an Olympic medal since 2006, but they have a chance in 2026. David Pastrnak is a top player, and Tomas Hertl and Martin Necas add offensive skill. Their defense is not the strongest, but they have three NHL goalies who can help limit opponents’ scoring.
6. Germany:
Germany is improving and could surprise some teams. They have a favorable group in the preliminary round. Leon Draisaitl, Tim Stutzle, and JJ Peterka provide offensive firepower, and Moritz Seider is a strong defenseman. However, their lack of depth could be a problem.
7. Switzerland:
Switzerland could be a contender for a spot on the podium. Nico Hischier, Timo Meier, and Kevin Fiala are talented forwards, and Roman Josi and Jonas Siegenthaler lead the defense. However, their defensive depth might be a concern.
8. Slovakia:
Slovakia may struggle to contend for a medal, despite winning one in 2022 when NHL players were not present. Juraj Slafkovsky is a key player, but the offense lacks NHL-level talent. A solid defense will help, but they may need to wait for young talent to develop to return to their former strength.
9. Latvia:
Latvia has two NHL goalies and a promising young defenseman, but faces a tough challenge in contention. After failing to qualify in 2018 and having a poor showing in 2022, it’s tough to see a path to contention considering the skill level of the teams ranked ahead. Good goaltending could help them stay competitive.
10. Denmark:
Denmark has more star power than Latvia, with Nikolaj Ehlers and Oliver Bjorkstrand leading the offense. However, their depth and defense may not be as strong. The play of goalie Frederik Andersen will be important for their success.
11. France:
France has not finished higher than eighth at the Winter Olympics since 1928. They face a difficult path to victory in Milan, with a lack of talent and depth compared to other teams.
12. Italy:
Italy automatically qualifies as the host nation, making its first appearance since 2006. They may struggle to avoid finishing in last place, lacking NHL talent. They will aim to compete hard and make their country proud.
