The 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics men’s ice hockey tournament is underway, with NHL players returning for the first time since 2014. Team USA, stacked with talent like captain Auston Matthews, Quinn Hughes, Jack Hughes, Matthew Tkachuk, and goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, is viewed as a top contender for gold—potentially ending a drought dating back to the 1980 Miracle on Ice. They’re in Group C alongside Latvia, Denmark, and Germany, and expected to advance deep into the knockout stages amid stiff competition from Canada, Sweden, Finland, and others.
Period 1 with Crazy Calls of being overturned twice
The Opening faceoff in Milan with Connor Hellebuyck (USA) vs Elvis Merzļikins (Latvia). The Auston Matthews line starts and the U.S. establishes early zone time. USA chance Early pressure pays off in looks from distance—Zach Werenski’s shot creates a rebound that Dylan Larkin nearly tucks home as it slides through the crease. (Quality U.S. looks were a theme early.)
Matthew Tkachuk threads a slick pass to Brady Tkachuk, who rips it past Merzļikins; Werenski draws the secondary helper. The brother‑to‑brother strike puts the U.S. on top 1-0. Quinn Hughes appears to double the lead, but Latvia challenges for offside and wins; goal wiped out. Momentum stalls briefly as the game resets at 1–0. On the very next stretch of play, a scramble in front of Hellebuyck ends with Renārs Krastenbergs jamming the puck across the line to level the game at 1–1. After a heavy contact sequence on the bench, Matthews appears in some discomfort but returns to the ice and takes shifts before period’s end. (No change in status reported; he resumed play.)
Brock Nelson tips a point shot home, but Latvia challenges again—review shows goalie interference on J.T. Miller against Merzļikins. Second U.S. tally of the period is erased. It was so unfortunate that USA’s chance was taken off and got robbed twice. The U.S. hits the post/crossbar multiple times late; shot volume favors USA (13–8 SOG) but the game remains knotted after a wild, review‑filled opening frame. End of 1st: 1–1.
Two successful Latvian challenges (offside, then goalie interference) erased what could’ve been a 3–1 U.S. lead, and Krastenbergs’ opportunistic equalizer swung momentum back to 1–1. Despite the frustration, the U.S. drove play territorially, generated the better chances, and Matthews returned after a brief scare—setting up a fascinating second period.
USA took full charge in the 2nd Period.
The second period began with Latvia getting an immediate opportunity when Jake Guentzel was called for hooking just 40 seconds into the frame, giving Latvia a power play to start the period. The Latvians controlled the early pace, generating zone time and forcing Team USA onto its heels, but the American penalty kill remained composed and successfully nullified the threat. Even after the kill, Latvia briefly maintained control of play, and midway through the early portion of the period, they held the advantage in offensive pressure. However, Team USA still led the shot count 16–10 at that moment, showing that despite Latvia’s strong push, the Americans were finding ways to counterattack. USA Settles In and Tilts the Ice, Matthews Ignites Momentum Once back at full strength, the United States regained its rhythm. Auston Matthews created a key momentum shift by forcing a takeaway in the offensive zone, immediately setting up Jake Guentzel for a scoring chance that Merzļikins snared with a sharp blocker save. On the next sequence, Jacob Slavin fired a quick shot that Merzļikins gloved to keep the game tied. Although Latvia had controlled the early minutes, Team USA began dictating the pace, holding the puck in the Latvian zone for extended shifts and generating multiple chances. By the time the second period reached its midpoint, the Americans had reclaimed full control of the offensive flow.
Midway through the period, the U.S. finally broke through. Jack Hughes worked brilliantly behind the Latvia net, protecting the puck and drawing defenders toward him before delivering a pass into the low slot to Brock Nelson. Nelson, who had a goal overturned in the first period and had also hit the post earlier, made no mistake this time—cutting to the middle and lifting a smooth backhander past Merzļikins. Vincent Trocheck picked up the secondary assist. After several near‑misses and two overturned goals in the first period, Nelson’s persistence paid off as the United States regained the lead, 2–1. Brock Nelson former Islanders player worked with New Jersey Devils player worked together to allow USA to finally take back the lead.
Following Nelson’s go‑ahead goal, the Americans continued to dominate possession. Matt Boldy generated one of the best chances of the period with a clean breakaway, but Merzļikins stayed square and made the stop. The Latvian skaters were visibly fatigued and unable to complete a line change during several long American cycles, while USA’s fresh legs poured on more shots. The shot count ballooned to 26–11 in favor of the Americans as their relentless forecheck kept Latvia trapped. Multiple scoring opportunities—including snipes from Hughes and Tkachuk—narrowly missed expanding the lead. The U.S. was firmly in control, even though the margin remained just one goal for the moment.
A cross‑checking penalty to Roberts Mamcics gave Team USA a late‑period power play, and this time the American skaters made it count. Jack Eichel threaded a perfect pass across the slot to Tage Thompson, who delivered one of the most skilled finishes of the game—pulling the puck forehand‑to‑backhand before elevating a top‑shelf backhander over Merzļikins’ glove. The goal, scored on USA’s 30th shot of the game, gave the Americans a 3–1 lead and represented the breakthrough their dominant second‑period play deserved.
With just 11 seconds left in the period, Team USA delivered a crushing late blow. On a beautifully connected passing sequence, Jack Hughes initiated the play by laying the puck off to his brother Quinn Hughes, who then threaded a sharp pass across to Brock Nelson in the slot. Nelson buried the chance for his second goal of the period and third point of the game. NBC analysts highlighted the “unreal puck movement” by the Hughes brothers leading to the goal. This late strike capped a dominant three‑goal period and pushed the United States to a commanding 4–1 lead entering the third.
Team USA headed into the locker room firmly in command, up 4–1 after outshooting Latvia and completely overwhelming them in puck possession and scoring chances. A period that began with early defensive pressure against the Americans ended with a relentless offensive surge, featuring three U.S. goals in the back half of the frame. Latvia remained resilient through portions of the period, but the Americans’ depth, speed, and skill created a separation that could not be matched.
3rd Period Highlights as USA Closed Out Latvia 5–1
Team USA entered the third period holding a 4–1 lead, and from the opening shift they shifted into a disciplined, control‑first approach designed to protect the cushion. Rather than trading rushes, the Americans focused on structured possession, clean exits, and denying Latvia any dangerous looks around Connor Hellebuyck. According to live coverage, the U.S. “played a strong third period” by suffocating Latvia’s attack and refusing to allow momentum‑changing chances. The period’s signature moment came when Auston Matthews finally found the back of the net for his first Olympic goal. The scoring play occurred earlier in the frame, and NBC Olympics confirmed that Matthews’ finish became Team USA’s fifth goal of the night, pushing the score to 5–1 with under seven minutes remaining in regulation. The goal also marked a milestone—Matthews scored it wearing the “C” in his first Olympic appearance as captain.
Down four goals, Latvia generated a brief spark when they earned a power play with 10:49 remaining. However, once again the Americans’ penalty killers eliminated the threat, holding Latvia to an ineffective 0‑for‑2 on the man advantage. Sporting News reported that after this failed power play, Latvia’s window closed; the U.S. tightened the neutral zone and allowed almost no clean entries.Latvia made a notable goaltending change in the third period, pulling starter Elvis Merzļikins in favor of Artūrs Šilovs. By that point, however, momentum had already swung heavily in Team USA’s favor, and Šilovs was not given the offensive support needed to spark a comeback. The Americans continued to choke off Latvia’s transition game, preventing the new goaltender from having an impact.
In the closing minutes, Team USA completely shut the door. The Americans “were simply running out the clock,” keeping Latvia to the perimeter, maintaining puck control, and making smart, conservative plays. Meanwhile, Hellebuyck remained sharp and composed, turning aside everything Latvia threw at him in the final frame. The U.S. skaters, rolling four lines, bled the clock with responsible shifts and calm possession until the horn sounded.
FINAL: USA 5, Latvia 1
Team USA delivered a complete, dominant third period—highlighted by Auston Matthews’ first Olympic goal and a clinic in defensive structure to secure a commanding 5–1 victory in their opening game of the 2026 Winter Olympics. The win capped a performance where the Americans steadily strengthened across all three periods, ultimately overpowering Latvia with depth, discipline, and elite finishing.
Conclusion: NHL Stars Return—and Team USA Sends a Message in 5–1 Win
The return of NHL players to the Olympics for the first time since 2014 elevated expectations for Team USA, and their 5–1 victory over Latvia in Milan proved exactly why those expectations are justified. With a roster built entirely from NHL talent—including elite names such as Auston Matthews, Jack Eichel, Quinn Hughes, Matthew and Brady Tkachuk, and Vezina‑winning goaltender Connor Hellebuyck—the Americans showcased the firepower, depth, and composure that simply hasn’t been possible in previous non‑NHL Olympic cycles.
This game demonstrated how dramatically the presence of NHL talent transforms the identity of Team USA. Matthews’ third‑period power‑play goal—his first Olympic goal as captain—was a symbolic moment, underscoring not only his role as the face of American hockey but also the elevated standard this roster brings back to the Olympic stage. The Hughes brothers each piling up assists, the Tkachuk brothers connecting early, and Brock Nelson delivering a multi‑goal performance all highlighted just how deep this lineup runs and how seamlessly NHL star power translates to international dominance. Beyond individual brilliance, the Americans’ team structure—steady netminding from Hellebuyck, suffocating defensive play, and a relentless puck‑possession game—reflected the maturity and experience that NHL‑proven athletes bring. As Team USA “showed just how loaded they are” while controlling the final 40 minutes of play and shutting down any Latvian pushback.
Ultimately, the 5–1 win was more than a strong opener—it was a statement. After more than a decade without NHL participation, Team USA’s return to full strength has reshaped the Olympic landscape. With elite skill, established chemistry, championship pedigrees, and a captain leading by example, the U.S. sent a clear message: they are not just contenders—they are one of the gold-medal favorites.
TEAM USA — FULL DETAILED PLAYER BREAKDOWN (2026 OLYMPICS)
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FORWARDS
Matt Boldy — Minnesota Wild
A fast‑rising NHL star, Boldy blends size, puck protection, and deceptive puck skills. He excels in controlled entries and generates offense off the cycle, often acting as a dual‑threat shooter and passer. His strong two‑way instincts make him valuable in transition and on the forecheck. Expect him to be a reliable middle‑six scoring driver with net‑front presence.
Kyle Connor — Winnipeg Jets
One of the purest shooters on Team USA. Connor’s release is among the quickest in the NHL, allowing him to score from distance or off the rush. His skating is smooth and powerful, enabling him to create separation easily. He fits perfectly on a top scoring line and top power‑play unit where he can attack from the left flank.
Jack Eichel — Vegas Golden Knights
A dominant two‑way center with elite puck transport ability. Eichel is exceptional at controlled zone entries and generating high‑danger chances through manipulation of defenders. His defensive game has tightened significantly, making him an all‑situations center who excels in transition, PP, and PK roles. Expect him to center one of Team USA’s top lines.
Jack Hughes — New Jersey Devils
One of the fastest and most creative skaters in the tournament. Hughes thrives on east‑west movement, deceptive dekes, and elite edgework, making him nearly impossible to contain in open ice. His playmaking vision is world‑class and he can elevate any line he plays on. Expect him to drive a highly skilled scoring line.
Jake Guentzel — Tampa Bay Lightning
A playoff‑proven finisher with elite hockey IQ. Guentzel finds soft spots in coverage, making him a perfect complementary winger for high‑skill centers like Eichel or Hughes. His ability to finish rebounds, tip pucks, and convert passes in tight makes him a lethal scoring option on the power play.
Clayton Keller — Utah Mammoth
A slick, agile winger with top‑tier playmaking sense. Keller excels at controlled entries, manipulation of defenders, and threading passes through seams. His quickness and puck‑on‑a‑string style make him ideal for a second‑line play‑driving role and a contributor on the half‑wall during power plays.
Dylan Larkin — Detroit Red Wings
One of the league’s best straight‑line skaters. Larkin disrupts defensive structure with speed, forechecking pressure, and consistent backchecking. He’s a dependable two‑way center who can match up against elite opposition while still contributing offensively. Expect him to be used heavily on the penalty kill and defensive zone starts.
Auston Matthews (Captain) — Toronto Maple Leafs
Arguably the best goal scorer in the world. Matthews brings elite shot accuracy, off‑puck positioning, defensive reliability, and underrated physicality. His ability to create turnovers and transition instantly into offense is unmatched. As captain, he will anchor the top line and top power‑play unit.
J.T. Miller — New York Rangers
A rugged, highly competitive forward who thrives in puck battles and heavy minutes. Miller is a reliable faceoff taker and special‑teams asset with strong play‑driving numbers. His versatility across wing and center allows coaches to deploy him in multiple line configurations.
Brock Nelson — Colorado Avalanche
A strong, steady scorer with a knack for getting open in the slot. Nelson’s long reach and positional smarts make him difficult to defend. He’s excellent on bumper plays in the power play and adds quiet, effective two‑way reliability at 5‑on‑5.
Brady Tkachuk — Ottawa Senators
Brings intensity, physicality, and leadership. Brady thrives on forechecks, net‑front battles, and emotional momentum plays. His size and willingness to engage physically make him a tone‑setter, and his touch around the net makes him a threat every shift.
Matthew Tkachuk (Alternate Captain) — Florida Panthers
One of the best big‑game performers in the NHL. Matthew combines elite board work, vision, strength, and high‑danger finishing. He is exceptional at controlling play below the dots and generating sustained offensive pressure. Expect him to be a key driver on a top line and PP unit.
Tage Thompson — Buffalo Sabres
At 6’6″ with elite hands, Thompson is a unique offensive weapon. His reach, puckhandling, and shot velocity make him a matchup nightmare. He can dominate off the rush or from the perimeter and is a major power‑play shooting threat.
Vincent Trocheck — New York Rangers
A relentless forechecker and faceoff specialist with strong defensive instincts. Trocheck brings stability to the bottom‑six and contributes on the penalty kill. His motor and competitiveness make him invaluable in tight games.
DEFENSEMEN
Brock Faber — Minnesota Wild
A poised, defensively elite blueliner who excels in gap control and transition denial. Faber rarely makes mistakes and moves the puck efficiently under pressure. He will be critical in shutting down opposing top lines.
Noah Hanifin — Vegas Golden Knights
A smooth skating two‑way defenseman with excellent mobility and size. Hanifin is strong in transition, effective on breakouts, and capable of logging large minutes. He fits well into a top‑four shutdown role.
Quinn Hughes — Minnesota Wild
One of the world’s premier offensive defensemen. Hughes drives play with elite skating, agility, and lateral movement. His passing vision makes him the natural No. 1 PP quarterback and primary transition engine from the back end.
Jackson LaCombe — Anaheim Ducks
A composed puck‑moving defenseman with good instincts and calmness under pressure. He excels in controlled breakouts and supporting the rush, making him a strong depth option in puck‑possession matchups.
Charlie McAvoy (Alternate Captain) — Boston Bruins
A premier two‑way defenseman with elite physicality and defensive anticipation. McAvoy excels in all situations—PK, PP, late‑game shutdown shifts—and provides leadership, toughness, and top‑pair stability.
Jake Sanderson — Ottawa Senators
A silky‑smooth, highly intelligent defenseman with excellent defensive reads. His skating and stick detail make him superb at neutralizing entries, and he contributes reliably in transition.
Jaccob Slavin — Carolina Hurricanes
One of the NHL’s best defensive players. Slavin’s stickwork, defensive positioning, and calm under pressure make him a shutdown specialist. He rarely takes penalties and is a coach’s dream on the penalty kill.
Zach Werenski — Columbus Blue Jackets
An offensively gifted defenseman with a heavy shot and excellent ability to join the rush. Werenski complements puck‑dominant partners well and adds power‑play depth.
GOALTENDERS
Connor Hellebuyck — Winnipeg Jets
Arguably the best goaltender in the world entering this tournament. Hellebuyck combines elite positioning, rebound control, and durability. His ability to steal games makes him the expected No. 1 starter and a cornerstone of USA’s medal hopes.
Jake Oettinger — Dallas Stars
Calm, collected, and highly technical. Oettinger is exceptional under playoff‑like pressure and excels in tracking pucks through screens. He is likely USA’s No. 2 but could start if needed.
Jeremy Swayman — Boston Bruins
An athletic, confident goaltender with explosive lateral movement. Swayman thrives in tandem systems and brings energy and competitive fire to the crease. A strong option for depth or situational usage.
Team USA Preliminary Round Schedule
All times Eastern (ET); games at Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena in Milan. Stream on Peacock; broadcast on USA Network.
- USA vs. Latvia: Thursday, Feb. 12, 3:10 p.m.
- USA vs. Denmark: Saturday, Feb. 14, 3:10 p.m.
- USA vs. Germany: Sunday, Feb. 15, 3:10 p.m.
The top team from each group plus the best second-place finisher get a quarterfinal bye. The rest play in a qualification round. Semifinals are Feb. 20, bronze on Feb. 21, and gold on Feb. 22.
USA’s depth, speed, and goaltending give them an edge, but they’ll need to navigate a loaded field. Analysts highlight their forechecking and star power as keys to success.
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