With just over a month left before the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, Hockey Canada has revealed its team roster set to compete for gold in Italy. The selection process was challenging, but they finalized a lineup that stands as a serious gold medal contender.
Six players—Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, Sidney Crosby, Brayden Point, Sam Reinhart, and Cale Makar—were already announced, leaving 19 open positions. Rising stars Macklin Celebrini and Connor Bedard made strong cases for inclusion, but Bedard’s shoulder injury led to Celebrini being chosen while Bedard will stay home. Another young standout, 18-year-old Matthew Schaefer of the New York Islanders, impressed in his first NHL season but was not selected.
A key dilemma for Canada was the goalie position. Jordan Binnington, who helped the team win the Quadruple Tournament under a year ago, has struggled this season, while other top goaltenders like Logan Thompson and Darcy Kuemper have proven themselves as strong Olympic contenders.
The confirmed Canadian roster for the Olympics is:
Forwards:
- Macklin Celebrini (Sharks)
- Anthony Cirelli (Lightning)
- Sidney Crosby (Penguins)*
- Bo Horvat (Islanders)
- Nathan MacKinnon (Avalanche)*
- Brad Marchand (Panthers)
- Mitch Marner (Golden Knights)
- Connor McDavid (Oilers)*
- Brayden Point (Lightning)*
- Sam Reinhart (Panthers)*
- Mark Stone (Golden Knights)
- Nick Suzuki (Canadiens)
- Tom Wilson (Capitals)
Defensemen:
- (Not listed explicitly in the original)
Goalies:
- Jordan Binnington (Blues)
- Darcy Kuemper (Kings)
- Logan Thompson (Capitals)
Despite their talent, Bedard and Schaefer were notably left off the team. Bedard’s injury might have influenced the choice, yet his offensive potential remains huge with an impressive 50 goals and 116 points last season. Schaefer, although only 18, has shown outstanding skill and might have been a better pick than some veterans.
Binnington earned his spot mainly due to his previous success, despite a rough current season with poor stats. Canada clearly hopes he can regain top form before the Olympics. Other strong goalie candidates like Scott Wedgwood and Mackenzie Blackwood were overlooked, showing that recent tournament performances impacted decisions.
Defensively, Canada kept the group that delivered in the Quadruple Tournament, though some feel players like Evan Bouchard or Jakob Chychrun could have strengthened the team offensively. Schaefer’s exclusion also raised questions given his rookie season’s promise.
Fan Take: This roster announcement is crucial for hockey fans as it highlights Canada’s blend of seasoned stars and promising young talent, reflecting the country’s depth and competitive edge. The choices, especially in goalie and defense, could significantly influence Canada’s performance and add excitement to the Olympic ice battles.
