In a vibrant scene at a hotel ballroom in Garden City, just a stone’s throw from John F. Kennedy Airport, colorful hockey bags from various NHL teams are gathered, each adorned with tags for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games. Nearby, an assortment of hockey sticks, bundled together and labeled, are being prepared by the NHL Players’ Association and NHL staff, all destined for Italy.
Among these sticks is a special bundle belonging to veteran defenseman Radko Gudas of the Anaheim Ducks. Attached to his sticks are a few children’s hockey sticks, a nod to his son’s determination to bring them along for potential family hotel hockey games during the Olympic adventure. This reflects a heartwarming aspect of the journey that Gudas and other players are about to embark on, one that will hopefully create lasting memories for their families.
The buzz surrounding the Olympics is palpable as NHL players are reunited with their families in preparation for the tournament. Parents, children, and even strollers were scattered throughout the hotel, setting a lively scene of families supporting one another. Just a day after arriving, players hit the ice in Milan for practice, each tackling the challenge of overcoming jet lag, while their loved ones cheered them on.
Swedish defenseman Gustav Forsling shared the excitement, describing the busy atmosphere surrounding the first day of practice. Players are immersing themselves in the Olympic experience, each with their own journey and stories. For instance, Jaccob Slavin from Team USA was surprised by an outpouring of support from his neighbors, who lined the street waving flags and holding signs as he departed for the tournament.
Meanwhile, Canadian defenseman Colton Parayko is embracing the opportunity to reconnect with significant figures from his hockey past, feeling a strong sense of pride and anticipation as he prepares to represent Canada. Hampus Lindholm was given a late call-up to join Team Sweden, stepping in as an injury replacement, and he expressed the special honor that comes with representing his country.
Conversely, Team USA’s Charlie McAvoy faced a tense moment just before the Olympics began due to a controversial hit that raised concerns about his health. With a recent history of injuries, his emotional turmoil was palpable, yet he remains grateful for the opportunity to be in Italy and represent his country on such a grand stage.
As these players step onto Olympic ice, the anticipation is high—not just for the competitions ahead but for the emotional journeys they and their families are partaking in as they merge their personal and professional lives on this incredible stage. The return of NHL players to the Olympic tournament marks a significant and celebratory moment in international hockey, and fans eagerly await the thrilling matches that await.