The men’s ice hockey event at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina is generating more excitement than recent years, largely due to recent adjustments by the NHL. For the first time since 2014, the league has permitted its top players to participate in the Olympic Games. Currently, the NHL season is paused, with games suspended from February 6th to February 24th, allowing players to join their national teams.
Notable NHL stars like Team USA captain Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs, as well as brothers Matthew Tkachuk of the Florida Panthers and Brady Tkachuk of the Ottawa Senators, are expected to compete. Canada, a perennial favorite, will also field some of the best talents globally, including Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers, Nathan MacKinnon of the Colorado Avalanche, and Sidney Crosby of the Pittsburgh Penguins—considered one of hockey’s legends of the past century.
Historically, the U.S. men’s team won gold at the 1980 “Miracle on Ice,” when amateurs represented the country before NHL players participated in the Olympics. Since then, the U.S. hasn’t secured another Olympic gold in men’s hockey. This upcoming tournament highlights why NHL participation was absent for several cycles and provides context for the league’s recent return.
When was the last time NHL players competed in the Winter Olympics?
The last appearance was in 2014 at Sochi, Russia. NHL players who missed the 2018 and 2022 Games will be returning in 2026, after a hiatus caused by disagreements among the league, the International Olympic Committee, and the Players Association. The NHL traditionally opposed Olympic participation because of conflicts with the season schedule and the Olympics’ location, especially in 2018 when South Korea was chosen as the host.
The NHL Players Association managed to include a clause in their 2020 collective bargaining agreement allowing players to compete in the 2022 and 2026 Olympics. However, the league opted out of the 2022 Beijing Games due to COVID-19 disruptions and an overhauled schedule.
When did NHL players first join the Olympics?
Their participation began in 1998 at Nagano, Japan, and they also competed in 2002, 2006, 2010, and 2014. This involvement was made possible through an agreement reached in 1995 between the NHL, the International Ice Hockey Federation, the International Olympic Committee, and the Players Association.
How many NHL players will participate in 2026?
A total of 148 players from all 32 NHL teams will be competing at the Olympics, ensuring broad league representation.
Is the NHL on break during the Olympics?
Yes, the league takes a pause from February 6th to February 24th so its players can participate.
Originally reported by USA TODAY: When was the last time an NHL player competed in the Winter Olympics?
Fan Take:
This return of NHL players to the Olympics is a huge win for hockey fans eager to see the best talent from the league compete on the world stage. It could reinvigorate international competition and inspire a new generation of players and viewers alike, blending club excellence with national pride.
