Analyzing Team Canada’s Lineup: Connor McDavid’s Playing Partners Revealed
Team Canada is gearing up for its Olympic debut in ice hockey, with highlights emerging from coach Jon Cooper’s lineup decisions. As the tournament begins in three days, excitement is building around the combinations chosen to play alongside superstar Connor McDavid.
Connor McDavid’s Line Partners Revealed
Jon Cooper has crafted an intriguing forward lineup designed to maximize synergy and on-ice chemistry. Two players, Matt Celebrini and Wilson, have earned spots alongside McDavid despite not making the 2025 golden 4 Nations roster.
Cooper mentioned the importance of selecting the right mix of players, noting that consultation with NHL coaches and the athletes themselves played a crucial role in assembling the lineup. “It’s about complementary skills,” he said.
Forward Line Combinations
- Celebrini – McDavid – Wilson
- Marchand – MacKinnon – Suzuki
- Stone – Crosby – Marner
- Hagel – Horvat – Reinhart
- Jarvis – Bennett
Defensive Pairings
- Toews – Makar
- Morrissey – Parayko
- Harley – Doughty
- Theodore – Sanheim
Goaltending Crew
- Binnington
- Thompson
- Kuemper
McDavid stated that his line partners bring a unique blend of skills, with the trio boasting an impressive combined total of 226 points in the NHL this season. Celebrini, just 19 years old, is the youngest participant in the men’s Olympic hockey competition. Cooper praised his maturity on the ice, indicating that his hockey sense belies his age.
Wilson, on the other end of the spectrum at 31, is the oldest first-time Olympian on the Canadian squad. He reflected on the joy of playing with elite talent like McDavid, focusing on creating space and facilitating play. “Playing with them is a lot more fun,” Wilson remarked, acknowledging the high level of skill they bring to the game.
Power Play Units
Team Canada’s initial power-play strategies were also unveiled:
- PP1: Makar, McDavid – Reinhart – MacKinnon, Crosby
- PP2: Theodore, Celebrini – Horvat – Marner, Stone
As the team prepares for its first match against Czechia on February 12, 2026, at 10:40 a.m. ET, the focus is on refining these lines and establishing strong chemistry. Successful adjustments will be critical as they aim for Olympic glory in Milano Cortina.
