NHL Stars Compete for Spot on 2026 Olympic Hockey Roster

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NHL Stars Compete for Spot on 2026 Olympic Hockey Roster

As the 2026 Milan-Cortina Olympics approach, NHL players are pushing for a spot on their national hockey teams. The deadline for finalizing rosters is December 31, 2025. Many players are making strong cases this season based on their performance. Here are some key contenders from various NHL teams:

NHL Players to Watch for Olympic Selections

Team USA

Tage Thompson (Buffalo Sabres) – With 14 points in 17 games, Thompson is a promising choice, although consistency is a concern.
Dylan Larkin (Detroit Red Wings) – Larkin excels in big matchups, boasting 10 goals and 21 points this season.
Jason Robertson (Dallas Stars) – A productive player with consistent scoring over three seasons, Robertson might edge out veterans for a spot.
Trevor Zegras (Philadelphia Flyers) – Zegras showcases his offensive skills with 19 points in 17 games, plus his notable shootout success.
Jake Sanderson (Ottawa Senators) – His strong two-way play in key games could earn him a critical role.
Matthew Boldy (Minnesota Wild) – With 18 points in 18 games, Boldy’s offensive prowess cannot be overlooked.
Conor Garland (Vancouver Canucks) – Known for his playmaking skills, Garland is making a case for a depth role on Team USA.

Team Canada

Morgan Geekie (Boston Bruins) – A late bloomer with 36 goals this year, Geekie is emerging as a top forward candidate.
Brad Marchand (Florida Panthers) – At 37, Marchand’s performance this season makes him a strong contender for Team Canada.
Nazem Kadri (Calgary Flames) – Kadri, with a solid scoring record, seeks to secure his spot despite his age.
Connor Bedard (Chicago Blackhawks) – Bedard’s impressive start strengthens his Olympic aspirations.
Matthew Knies (Toronto Maple Leafs) – Noted for his strong start, Knies is a dynamic option for Team Canada.
Mark Scheifele (Winnipeg Jets) – Scheifele’s offensive capabilities make him a valid candidate for selection.

Team Sweden

Leo Carlsson (Anaheim Ducks) – Known for his scoring streak, Carlsson is vying for a top center role.
Filip Forsberg (Nashville Predators) – Forsberg’s strong play makes him a likely pick for the squad.

Other Notable Players

David Tomasek (Edmonton Oilers) – A rookie with a recent World Championship win, Tomasek represents Czechia.
Zach Werenski (Columbus Blue Jackets) – His experience in international competitions solidifies his chances for Team USA.
Akira Schmid (Vegas Golden Knights) – Schmid’s strong showing in recent games positions him well to represent Switzerland.

The competition is heating up as NHL players strive to secure their positions on national teams. The upcoming months will be crucial for players aiming to make a significant impact in Milan-Cortina.