NHL Players Eyeing Olympic Roster for 2026
As the 2025-26 NHL season kicks off, several players are looking to secure their places on the Olympic roster for the upcoming Winter Games in Italy next February. Notable figures like Connor Bedard, the Chicago Blackhawks’ young sensation, are keeping their hopes alive even after being overlooked for the Canadian team in the 4 Nations Face-Off.
Player Reflections and Motivations
Bedard reflects on his exclusion by acknowledging a slow start in the previous season and recognizing the depth of talent in Canadian hockey. He’s focused on improving during the season and attended an Olympic orientation camp this past August to strengthen his case.
In contrast, Tage Thompson of the Buffalo Sabres felt a greater sting when the U.S. team omitted him from the 4 Nations squad. This rejection became a source of motivation for him, contributing to an impressive performance that saw him accumulate 24 points in 27 games after the tournament. Thompson hopes to leverage this momentum to advocate for his place on the Olympic roster, as does Clayton Keller, a forward with the Utah Mammoth, who also sought motivation after being left off the 4 Nations list.
Team USA’s Selection Insights
Team USA’s General Manager Bill Guerin has made clear that the lineup for the 4 Nations is unlikely to mirror the Olympic roster, providing hope for players who were recently passed over. Underlining this sentiment is the fact that some of the players chosen for their experience and two-way prowess, such as veterans Vincent Trocheck and Chris Kreider, may leave room for younger talents craving Olympic dreams.
Thompson, who has yet to participate in Stanley Cup playoffs throughout his career, believes that experiences like the IIHF World Championships—where the U.S. claimed gold earlier this year—are essential for establishing credibility for Olympic selection. Alongside Keller, several hopefuls participated in the World Championships, enhancing their credentials. This past summer, players like Zach Werenski and Jeremy Swayman also gained Olympic orientation invitations, further displaying the importance of such tournaments in forming Olympic aspirations.
Focus on Development and Competition
While Bedard and younger players focus on their present NHL performances, they remain aware of the Olympic opportunity ahead. Bedard, coming off a strong season with 67 points in 82 games, is committed to his development and aims to make a strong case in his ongoing campaign.
Further adding to the competitive atmosphere is Washington Capitals forward Tom Wilson, who was also excluded from the 4 Nations roster. His participation in the Olympic orientation camp showcases the competitive nature of vying for a spot among Canada’s best.
Sanheim, a defenseman for the Philadelphia Flyers who impressed in the 4 Nations, acknowledges the deep talent pool vying for a spot on the Canadian Olympic team and recognizes that numerous players are eyeing for only a handful of positions. Like the others, he continues to work hard and maintain focus on the Olympic goal while contributing to his team’s success.
Veteran Perspectives
Veteran Patrick Kane, with past Olympic experience, provides a seasoned perspective, valuing performance over legacy when striving for selection and taking note of the competitive landscape as players push to make a lasting impression in their NHL seasons. All these players share a singular focus: to harness their skills and prove themselves worthy of an Olympic opportunity amidst a highly competitive environment.
