NHL Projects United States Olympic Hockey Roster

Bassyonni

Published: February 8, 2026 11:26 AM ET

The Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 men’s hockey tournament is set to commence on Wednesday. This year’s event marks the first time NHL players will participate since the 2014 Sochi Olympics. A total of 12 teams will compete, with each team playing three preliminary matches within their respective groups. Following the group stage, all teams will advance to a single-elimination playoff process culminating in the gold medal game on February 22.

NHL Projects United States Olympic Hockey Roster

Team USA is placed in Group C. Their first match is against Team Latvia on Thursday at 3:10 p.m. ET, with broadcasts available on Peacock, USA, CBC Gem, and SN. Following this, the U.S. will face Team Denmark on February 14 and Team Germany on February 15.

Projected Roster Insights

On January 2, the United States revealed its Olympic roster. NHL.com has taken a step further by projecting the team’s forward lines, defense pairings, and goalie depth chart. Senior writer Dan Rosen and columnist Nicholas J. Cotsonika have outlined potential line combinations for Team USA.

Forward Line Projections

Brady Tkachuk — Jack Eichel — Matthew Tkachuk
Clayton Keller — Auston Matthews — Jake Guentzel
Matt Boldy — Tage Thompson — Kyle Connor
Dylan Larkin — Brock Nelson — J.T. Miller
Jack Hughes (13th forward) — Vincent Trocheck

Eichel boasts previous chemistry with the Tkachuk brothers from the 4 Nations Face-Off, making their inclusion logical. Matthews and Guentzel also share a history from the same event. Keller is anticipated to complement Matthews and Guentzel’s elite goal-scoring abilities effectively. This duo could emerge as Team USA’s highest-scoring line, combining skill and tactical insight. Meanwhile, Thompson’s imposing 6-foot-6 frame as a center is expected to challenge opposing defenses, supported by Boldy’s strong puck control and Connor’s speed.

Dynamic Defense and Forward Fourth Line

The fourth line combines speed, defensive responsibility, and offensive capability. This group aims to deliver quality performances with every shift. Hughes’ injury with the New Jersey Devils currently places him as the 13th forward, yet he remains a valuable asset, particularly on power plays. Trocheck offers versatility, ready to fulfill any role as needed.