NHL.com Reveals Projected Canadian Olympic Hockey Lineup
The Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 will host the men’s hockey tournament starting on Wednesday. This tournament marks the return of NHL players since the Sochi 2014 Olympics. A total of 12 teams will compete, each playing three preliminary matches in their groups.
After the group stage, all teams will advance to a single-elimination playoff, culminating in the gold medal game on February 22. Team Canada, placed in Group A, has its first match against Team Czechia on Thursday at 10:30 a.m. ET, followed by games against Team Switzerland on February 13 and Team France on February 15.
NHL.com Projects Team Canada’s Olympic Hockey Lineup
Canadian fans are keenly anticipating the roster revealed by NHL.com on December 31. The projected lineup showcases both talent and depth, shaping a promising outlook for the tournament.
Projected Forward Lines
The anticipated forward lines for Team Canada are as follows:
- First Line: Macklin Celebrini — Connor McDavid — Mitch Marner
- Second Line: Sidney Crosby — Nathan MacKinnon — Sam Reinhart
- Third Line: Brad Marchand — Nick Suzuki — Tom Wilson
- Fourth Line: Brandon Hagel — Bo Horvat — Mark Stone
Celebrini’s impressive second season with the San Jose Sharks has placed him in a favorable position alongside McDavid, the captain of the Edmonton Oilers. Marner, currently with the Vegas Golden Knights, completes a formidable top line.
Strengths of Team Canada’s Lineup
Canada’s second line is set to be just as strong, featuring MacKinnon from the Colorado Avalanche teaming up with his lifelong friend, Crosby of the Pittsburgh Penguins. Reinhart, known for his finishing skills with the Florida Panthers, will enhance their scoring opportunities.
Both the third and fourth lines present versatility and offensive capability while maintaining defensive resilience. Marchand and Wilson, playing for the Panthers and Capitals respectively, are notorious for their physical play and could create space for Suzuki of the Montreal Canadiens. Similarly, Hagel and Horvat, supported by Stone, will also contribute to both offensive and defensive efforts.
Extra Forwards
The additional forwards expected to support Team Canada include Seth Jarvis and Sam Bennett, further bolstering Canada’s offensive and defensive strategies.
With such a talented mix of players, Team Canada’s lineup anticipates exciting matches during the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Both the coaching and fanbase are hopeful for a successful tournament amid fierce competition.
