NHL Expert Identifies Wyatt Johnston as Canada’s Olympic Dark Horse
As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, many talented players are vying for a spot on Team Canada. One standout prospect is Wyatt Johnston, a 22-year-old center for the Dallas Stars. Hailing from Toronto, Johnston has shown impressive growth since his rookie season, recording 41 points last year and currently on track for a remarkable 95 points this season.
Wyatt Johnston’s Olympic Aspirations
Despite his impressive performance, Johnston was not selected for Team Canada’s roster during the 4 Nations Face-Off in February. However, his chances of making the Olympic team have significantly improved. Sportsnet analyst Elliotte Friedman highlighted that the influence of voices within Team Canada will be crucial, especially Dallas GM Jim Nill, who is part of the Olympic management committee. Nill is likely to advocate for Johnston’s inclusion, given his firsthand knowledge of the player’s abilities.
Competition for a Spot
Johnston will face stiff competition from several top NHL forwards. Notable players in the running include:
- Connor Bedard
- Mark Scheifele
- Anthony Cirelli
- Bo Horvat
- Zach Hyman
- Seth Jarvis
- Travis Konecny
- Nick Suzuki
Deciding on the final roster will be challenging for coaches and management. However, Friedman asserts that reputable voices within the team will support the decision to include Johnston.
Current Season Performance
This season, Johnston has recorded 45 points across 39 games, placing him in a tie with fellow Dallas Star Jason Robertson. His performance ranks him fourth among Canadian players, trailing only elite talents like Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, and Macklin Celebrini.
With continued strong production and influential backing, Wyatt Johnston is becoming a key player to watch as Team Canada prepares for the Olympics. His journey highlights the excitement surrounding the upcoming Winter Games and the talent pool available to the national team.
