While the National Hockey League season has pressed pause, the world’s focus has shifted to Milano Cortina for the 2026 Winter Olympics. The return of NHL players to the Olympic stage has been highly anticipated, and the opening slate of games on February 12 did not disappoint. The latest NHL news is dominated by national pride as superstars traded their club sweaters for their country’s colors, delivering dominant performances and setting the stage for an epic tournament.
Team Canada Makes a Statement with Shutout Over Czechia
Team Canada began its quest for gold with a convincing 5-0 victory over a solid Czechia squad. The story of the game was St. Louis Blues netminder Jordan Binnington, who was sensational between the pipes, earning a 26-save shutout to silence any doubters about Canada’s goaltending situation.
Offensively, the usual suspects led the way. Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid was a playmaking force, tallying three assists. 19-year-old phenom Macklin Celebrini of the San Jose Sharks opened the scoring, proving he belongs on the world’s biggest stage. Other goals came from Mark Stone, Bo Horvat, Nathan MacKinnon, and Nick Suzuki, showing off Canada’s incredible depth. Sidney Crosby also chipped in with two helpers.
There was one piece of concerning NHL news for Winnipeg Jets fans: defenseman Josh Morrissey left the game with an undisclosed injury and did not return.
- Goalie: Jordan Binnington (STL) – 26-save shutout
- Key Players: Connor McDavid (EDM) 3A, Macklin Celebrini (SJS) 1G
Team USA Overcomes Slow Start to Dominate Latvia
Team USA faced an early scare against Latvia, enduring a frustrating first period that saw two of their goals disallowed. However, the Americans’ overwhelming skill talent eventually took over, leading to a decisive 5-1 win.
New York Islanders forward Brock Nelson led the charge with two goals. The brother duo of Quinn and Jack Hughes were dynamic, each recording two assists, while Matthew Tkachuk also added a pair of helpers. Goals from Brady Tkachuk, Auston Matthews, and Tage Thompson rounded out the scoring for a potent American offense that looks ready to challenge for gold.
- Key Players: Brock Nelson (NYI) 2G, Quinn Hughes (VAN) 2A, Jack Hughes (NJD) 2A
Around the Rinks: NHL Stars Shine for European Nations
Other Olympic action saw more NHL players making their mark. Switzerland shut out France 4-0, paced by two goals from New Jersey Devils forward Timo Meier and a shutout from goalie Leonardo Genoni. Meanwhile, Germany defeated Denmark 3-1, with Ottawa Senators star Tim Stutzle scoring twice and Leon Draisaitl adding a goal and an assist.
Looking ahead to today’s action on February 13, Team Canada will face a tougher test against Switzerland, while the rest of the field continues preliminary round play.
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