McDavid Eager for Inaugural Olympic Opportunity with Team Canada
With the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 approaching, Connor McDavid is reflecting on the significance of this event. The Edmonton Oilers captain is keenly aware that preparation is key as he heads into the tournament. “Going into the summer, you know you need a big summer and a big year,” McDavid stated. “It’s on my mind a lot these days, and I’m excited to get going.”
McDavid’s Olympic Dreams with Team Canada
This February marks the first Olympic experience for McDavid and other NHL players after a hiatus since 2014. For McDavid, representing Team Canada is a dream fulfilled. He expressed the enormity of the event, noting, “It’s the biggest sporting event in the world.”
- McDavid will compete alongside 25 of Canada’s top players.
- The men’s Olympic hockey tournament starts on February 11.
- Canada’s first game is against Czechia on February 12 at 10:40 a.m. ET.
Upcoming Schedule for the Edmonton Oilers
The Oilers have crucial games ahead of the Olympic break. They will face:
- San Jose Sharks on February 9
- Minnesota Wild on February 11
- Toronto Maple Leafs on February 14
- Calgary Flames on February 15
McDavid, along with teammates Leon Draisaitl and recently called-up player Josh Samanski, will represent the Oilers at the Games. Draisaitl and Samanski will play for Team Germany.
Olympic Hockey Tournament Details
In the men’s Olympic hockey tournament, Canada will compete in Group A alongside Czechia, Switzerland, and France. The tournament will conclude with the gold medal game on February 22.
Canada has a strong Olympic hockey legacy, having won gold in three of five tournaments featuring NHL players: 2002 in Salt Lake City, 2010 in Vancouver, and 2014 in Sochi. The Czech Republic claimed their gold in 1998, and Sweden did so in 2006. Notably, the NHL did not participate in the 2018 and 2022 Games.
Memorable Olympic Moments
Reflecting on past Olympics, McDavid recalls significant moments. “I vaguely remember the 2002 one,” he commented. “Obviously, there’s the Sid (Crosby) one in 2010, which became an iconic hockey moment in Canada.” Crosby’s golden goal in 2010 became a defining moment for Canadian hockey fans.
As the Olympic Games draw closer, McDavid is focused on the task at hand. While he acknowledges the unique experience of competing in Italy, he remains committed to winning for Team Canada.
