Olympic gold medal favorites discussed by NHL.com staff
NHL.com••sports
Key Points:
- The men's hockey tournament at the 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina will feature 12 nations and NHL players for the first time since 2014, starting February 11 with pool play leading to elimination rounds and the gold medal game on February 22.
- Canada is favored by several NHL.com writers due to its strong roster including stars like Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, and Cale Makar, as well as goaltender Jordan Binnington's clutch performances despite mixed season stats.
- Finland, the reigning Olympic champion, is seen as a cohesive and well-prepared team with solid defense and goaltending, though considered less talented overall compared to Canada and the U.S.
- Sweden is viewed as a
