NHL World Championship Showcases Talent Ahead of 2026 Olympics

STOCKHOLM — The 2025 IIHF World Championship has taken on new significance as NHL players prepare for their return to the Olympic Games. The NHL will participate in the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics, marking its first appearance since the Sochi Games in 2014. The excitement surrounding the tournament was amplified by the recently held 4 Nations Face-Off, held in Montreal and Boston from Feb. 12-20, the first best-on-best event since the World Cup of Hockey in 2016.

Canada‘s captain, Sidney Crosby, highlighted the competitive spirit among players. “Between the 4 Nations, this, and the Olympics coming up, I think the motivation is to earn a spot on those teams,” he said. “Anyone who watched the 4 Nations got pretty excited thinking about international hockey.” Canada clinched victory in the 4 Nations after Connor McDavid scored the winning goal against the United States in overtime, earning a 3-2 win.

The World Championship promises to feature a deep roster of talent, including players from Canada, Czechia, Sweden, Germany, Switzerland, and the United States. Jeremy Swayman, a Boston Bruins goalie who played in the 4 Nations, commented on the participation. “This is a tournament for guys to show their talent on a global stage,” he said. “It’s important for the future of our teams.”

The medal round kicks off on May 22. Canada’s No. 1 seed will face Denmark, while Switzerland and Austria will also compete. The United States will play against Finland, and host Sweden will take on Czechia.

Pastrnak, a Bruins forward, expressed enthusiasm about the caliber of players present. “It’s great for hockey they are here. We’re trying to build something special,” he said. MacKinnon of the Colorado Avalanche is eager for a successful run for Canada, recalling their previous Olympic achievements.

“I’m sure there’ll be many players from this team on the Olympic team,” MacKinnon added. “It’s always fun representing Canada.” The buzz surrounding international hockey is palpable, as players gear up for a thrilling tournament.