Team USA has announced its men’s and women’s hockey rosters for the upcoming 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics, showcasing a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents keen to compete for gold.
The men’s roster features a mix of star players including forwards Auston Matthews, Jack Eichel, and Dylan Larkin, alongside defensive stalwarts like Seth Jones and Quinn Hughes. Notable goaltenders Connor Hellebuyck, Jake Oettinger, and Jeremy Swayman will aim to guard the net. The team reflects a strong commitment to youth and competitive spirit, as emphasized by forward Jack Hughes, who expressed the excitement among new players eager to make their Olympic debut.
The inclusion of Quinn Hughes, who missed the last major tournament, is notable as he brings a unique set of skills to the blue line. However, the omission of standout players such as New York Rangers defenseman Adam Fox, who has been a key player but had a rough showing in a previous tournament, has raised eyebrows. Critics have also pointed to the exclusion of Dallas Stars forward Jason Robertson, the current top American scorer, sparking discussions about the team’s selection criteria.
On the women’s side, Team USA’s roster retains much of the strength that led them to gold in the recent world championship, with stars like Hilary Knight making history as the first American hockey player to compete in five Olympic Games. Knight, alongside other experienced players like Kendall Coyne Schofield and Alex Carpenter, will bring a wealth of experience to the ice. The team is bolstered by impressive performances from young players, including goaltender Aerin Frankel, who has dominated at the collegiate level with a .963 save percentage.
The roster will also mark significant milestones, as defender Laila Edwards will be the first Black woman to represent the U.S. women’s hockey team at the Olympics. The women will battle in a preliminary round that includes crucial matches against top rivals, including an anticipated showdown with Canada.
General managers Bill Guerin for the men’s team and Katie Million for the women’s team both expressed their pride in the selections made, acknowledging the hard work and depth of talent available in the United States. As excitement builds toward the February Games, both teams are preparing to compete fiercely for Olympic glory, capturing the spirit of the sport and the nation’s pride.
With the inclusive and dynamic nature of the rosters, the 2026 Olympics promises to be an exhilarating showcase of American hockey talent.