Concerns Ahead of the 2026 Olympic Games
Concerns are rising as the 2026 Olympic Games in Milan approach, particularly regarding the readiness of the primary hockey venue. With only over two months left until the opening of the games, both the NHL and NHL Players’ Association (NHLPA) are anxious about the potential lack of preparation for the hockey rink. Meanwhile, national teams are grappling with challenges that could influence their competitive edge in the upcoming hockey tournament, especially as they finalize 25-player rosters due by December 31.
Team Finland and Team Canada Challenges
For Team Finland, hopes of securing a medal have suffered a blow due to the devastating injuries of their captain, Aleksander Barkov of the Florida Panthers, who is facing an ACL and MCL tear accrued during training. Similarly, for Team Canada, uncertainties are mounting regarding their goaltending options, particularly as Adin Hill of the Vegas Golden Knights has been sidelined since mid-October.
As Canada grapples with roster adjustments, they must also navigate the departure of players from last year’s successful Four Nations Face-Off team to make way for new talent.
Team USA’s Injury Woes
In stark contrast, Team USA is reeling from a wave of injuries that have placed six essential players on the injured reserve list. This includes Matthew Tkachuk, who suffered an injury during the NHL’s Four Nations Face-Off last February, causing him to miss the remainder of the regular season, although he subsequently played in the playoffs. Tkachuk underwent surgery for a sports hernia and a torn adductor but has recently resumed skating and may make his return by December, as noted by The Hockey News.
Meanwhile, Tkachuk’s brother, Brady, the captain of the Ottawa Senators, is also grappling with recovery due to a broken thumb sustained from an incident involving Roman Josi of the Nashville Predators, which is expected to keep him out for six to eight weeks post-surgery.
Another prominent concern for Team USA is Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs, who has been absent since an injury on November 11. Although Matthews has faced trouble in the past with injuries, including an abbreviated 2022-2023 season, he is expected to return during a demanding road schedule for the Maple Leafs.
Adding to USA Hockey’s issues, Jack Hughes of the New Jersey Devils recently underwent surgery due to a freak finger injury encountered at a team dinner—an odd circumstance for an NHL player. His recovery timeline could jeopardize his selection, as it extends into the crucial roster deadline.
Charlies McAvoy, a vital asset for Team USA’s defense during the Four Nations, is rehabbing from a shoulder injury followed by a staph infection and is currently recovering from facial surgery after a slapshot incident. Despite these setbacks, he is expected to be back in time for the Olympics.
Further complicating matters, Connor Hellebuyck, a three-time Vezina Trophy recipient, is facing a four to six-week recovery period after knee surgery. Hellebuyck’s anticipated return is critical to USA’s aspirations as the competition draws nearer, with eyes set on challenging Canada—who holds the record for the most gold medals in men’s Olympic ice hockey—when the games commence in February.
