Key Highlights
- Slovakia vs. Finland kicks off the 2026 Milano Cortina men’s hockey tournament.
- NHL players participate for the first time since Sochi 2014.
- William Nylander’s status is uncertain before Sweden vs. Italy match.
The 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics Hockey Debut
The men’s hockey tournament at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics begins with an exciting matchup: Slovakia vs. Finland, a game set to air on Peacock and various regional channels.
Finland brings back 18 players from their last successful campaign in Beijing 2022, while Slovakia includes key players like Juraj Slafkovsky who shone as MVP in the same tournament with seven goals. Finland defeated Slovakia 5-3 for the bronze medal at Vancouver 2010, the only time these teams met during NHL-included Olympics.
NHL Talent on Ice
For the first time since Sochi 2014, NHL players are competing in the Winter Games. Team Sweden is already facing questions as William Nylander of the Toronto Maple Leafs skipped practice Tuesday. Coach Sam Hallam said Nylander was just taking a maintenance day, but Sweden will know more after morning skate Wednesday.
Sweden’s roster boasts plenty of talent: forwards Lucas Raymond and Mika Zibanejad who are tied for second in NHL scoring among Swedes this season with 52 points each. Despite their 16,880 games played in the NHL, Italy comes into the tournament without any NHL experience.
Italy’s First Olympic Appearance
Italy will compete in the Olympics for the third time since 1998 and 2006, with four NHL draft picks on their roster. Goaltender Damian Clara, a second-round pick by the Anaheim Ducks, is one of them.
The tournament runs from February 10 to 22, culminating in a gold medal game that promises thrilling moments for hockey fans around the world. With all 12 teams playing preliminary games and advancing into single-elimination playoffs, every match counts towards securing a spot on the Olympic stage.