Saros Embraces New Olympic Challenge with Finland
Juuse Saros, the renowned goalie for the Nashville Predators, is preparing for the men’s hockey tournament at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. After a challenging NHL season, Saros seeks a fresh start as he joins Team Finland in this elite competition.
Saros’s Olympic Aspirations
As Team Finland gears up for their opener against Team Slovakia at the Santagiulia Arena, Saros is poised to take the starting position. The match is scheduled for Wednesday at 10:40 a.m. ET, and fans can catch the action on platforms like Peacock, USA, CBC Gem, TSN, and CBC.
Current Performance and Challenges
Despite his talent, this NHL season has proven difficult for Saros. With 44 starts, he shares the league’s highest workload among goalies, yet his current save percentage stands at .892, the lowest of his decade-long career. Saros expressed his determination to reclaim his top form, stating, “I’m very excited. This is a special tournament.”
Team Support and Expectations
Finland’s goalie Kevin Lankinen praised Saros, highlighting his athleticism and talent. “He’s an athletic guy who was born to play this position,” Lankinen noted. Saros’s previous Olympic experience at the 4 Nations Face-Off was underwhelming, but he shone brightly at the 2025 IIHF World Championship, boasting a 4-2-0 record, a remarkable .943 save percentage, and a 1.67 goals-against average.
Confidence from Coaches
Finland’s head coach, Antti Pennanen, expressed strong support for Saros. He emphasized Saros’s status as one of the NHL’s elite goalies, citing his exceptional performance at the World Championship as a critical factor in rebuilding confidence. “We trust in him because he is a really good goalie,” Pennanen affirmed.
Outlook for Team Finland
- Opener: Finland vs. Slovakia
- Date: Wednesday, 10:40 a.m. ET
- Location: Santagiulia Arena
With the anticipation of the tournament high, Juuse Saros aims to harness this new opportunity at the Olympics to showcase his skills and lead his team to victory. As the tournament unfolds, the focus will be on how Saros can turn his NHL struggles into Olympic triumphs.
