Canada is serious: With a top -class contingent, Hockey Canada starts preparing for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo. From August 26th to 28th, an orientation camp will take place in Calgary, in which the basis for the final 25-man squad is laid. The list of invited 42 players is listed by absolute superstars such as Connor McDavid, Sidney Crosby, Nathan Mackinnon and Cale Makar.
NHL stars return to the Olympic stage
For the first time since the 2014 Olympics in Sochi, NHL players are allowed to take part in the Olympic ice hockey tournament. The puck falls for the preliminary round on February 11, 2026, the grand finale will increase on February 22nd. As usual, the squad will consist of 14 strikers, eight defenders and three goalkeepers.
Already in June hockey Canada nation -based six players: In addition to McDavid, Crosby, Mackinnon and Makar, Brayden Point (Tampa Bay Lightning) and Sam Reinhart (Florida Panthers) are also set.
Mixing of world stars and future hopes
Of the 42 invited players, 22 were already in use at the 4 Nations Face-Off in February, where Canada triumphed against the USA with a 3-2 victory in overtime-McDavid scored the decisive goal at the time. Also there again: Sam Bennett (Florida), who scored a goal in this game, and Jordan Binnington (St. Louis), who shone with 31 parades.
A look at the list shows that in addition to experienced top stars, Canada also relies on young exceptional talents. Eight former number 1 draft picks were invited-including Connor Bedard (Chicago), Macklin Celebrini (San Jose), John Tavares (Toronto) and of course Sidney Crosby (Pittsburgh).
Florida Panthers strongly represented
The Block of Florida Panthers, who are strongly represented with five players, is particularly eye -catching: In addition to Sam Reinhart and Sam Bennett, Aaron Ekblad, Brad Marchand and Carter Verhaeghe were also invited. With Mackinnon and Makar, the Colorado Avalanche also represents two load -bearing columns for the Canadian team.
Whether young talent or a seasoned superstar – the camp in Calgary will be a first, significant step towards gold mission 2026. The competition does not sleep, but Canada seems to be prepared as rarely before.
