With the return of NHL players to the Winter Olympics and Russia’s absence due to IOC sanctions, Canada is well-positioned to once again dominate men’s hockey at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy. Many sports betting sites agree, predicting that Canada could tie Russia’s record for the most gold medals in Olympic men’s hockey.
Since 2014, the NHL has not participated in the Olympics, but Canada made a strong showing in 2014 with a medal and a third gold in four games. They won bronze in 2018 but did not medal in 2022, finishing seventh. Now, with a roster featuring stars like Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, and Macklin Celebrini, Canada has a high likelihood of claiming gold, potentially matching Russia’s total of seven titles (including medals won under different team names).
The United States is also eager for a breakthrough, aiming for its first gold since the legendary 1980 Miracle on Ice. Historically, the US has only secured silver twice in 11 appearances since then.
Favorites for gold are Canada and the United States, with odds ranging from +100 to +130 for Canada and +175 to +190 for the US, according to major sportsbooks. Sweden is considered a dark horse with odds from +470 to +750; their last gold was in 2006, and they haven’t secured a medal since 2014.
Additional contenders for podium positions include Switzerland, Finland, and the Czech Republic, all of whom have NHL representation. The qualification matches for the tournament kick off on February 11, with teams competing within their groups, leading up to quarterfinals, semifinals, and medal games scheduled for late February.
Power rankings ahead of the qualifier highlight Canada’s strong chances, with the US, Sweden, Finland, and Czechia also being top contenders. These assessments are based on recent performances and the strength of rosters, which include numerous NHL players.
Fan Take: The renewed participation of NHL stars makes the 2026 Olympics an exciting event for hockey fans worldwide. It promises to bring a high level of competition and dramatic moments, rekindling national pride and the thrill of Olympic hockey’s elite showdowns.
