Key Highlights
- NHL players to compete in the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Games for the first time since 2014.
- NHL.com projects forward lines and defense pairs for Team Finland.
- Mikael Granlund, Roope Hintz, Mikko Rantanen top the projected forward lineup.
- Defense pairs Miro Heiskanen and Esa Lindell are projected to play together again.
NHL Players in Olympic Spotlight: Team Finland’s Lineup
The Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 is set to feature a unique lineup of NHL players, with the first tournament since 2014. This year, Team Finland, led by seasoned professionals and dynamic young talents, prepares for the challenge.
Forwards: Granlund, Hintz, Rantanen
Mikael Granlund, Roope Hintz, and Mikko Rantanen form the core of Team Finland’s forward lines. These players have played together in Dallas before, hinting at a chemistry that could be crucial during the games.
Granlund brings experience from Anaheim, while Hintz and Rantanen are currently on the Dallas Stars. Their partnership is established and should provide Team Finland with a solid offensive presence.
Defense: Heiskanen & Lindell
The defense pairs are no less impressive. Miro Heiskanen and Esa Lindell, who have been stellar for the Dallas Stars, are projected to play together again. Their pairing is expected to be a formidable shutdown unit, complemented by the offensive prowess of Niko Mikkola and Rasmus Ristolainen.
Other defensemen like Mikko Lehtonen and Henri Jokiharju will add depth and versatility, with Matinpalo and Maatta bringing valuable experience to the mix.
Goalies: Saros & Korpisalo
The goaltending situation is competitive. Juuse Saros, who was the starter for Team Finland at 4 Nations, remains a strong option. Joonas Korpisalo of Boston Bruins has been performing well since January and could potentially take the starting role during the group stage.
Team Finland’s roster and projected lineup are carefully crafted to leverage established chemistry and individual strengths, ensuring they’re ready for the rigorous tournament ahead. As the games approach, Team Finland will face tough opponents, but with such a talented squad, success is within reach.