Milan’s Excitement for Hockey’s Return at the Olympics
MILAN — A year back, there was noticeable disappointment when the NHL decided to exclude Russia and selected just four countries—among them the Czech Republic, fresh off their IIHF World Championship win the previous summer. It raised eyebrows, especially considering the talent missing out; young stars like Juraj Slavkovskiy and veteran players such as Roman Josi, not to mention the thrilling Leon Draisaitl.
Now, as the Olympics approach, it’s clear there will be no gold medal competition for these absent players. Starting with Slovakia going up against Finland, twelve countries (and notably minus Russia, due to ongoing sanctions stemming from the Ukraine invasion) will be vying for the Olympic gold.
It’s common to see the spotlight shine on teams like the U.S., Canada, Sweden, and Finland, but this tournament is more than just a battle among those four. Take the hockey-loving Czech Republic, for example. I recall seeing Prague’s Old Town Square full of fans celebrating when David Pastrnak was chugging a beer after their World Championship victory. It’s a passionate hockey community, and they have opinions.
Pastrnak himself expressed his anticipation, saying, “Half my entire career, I’ve been waiting for this. The NHL has changed, and now it’s time for the Olympics and the national team. I feel great and enjoy every moment. I want it to start, but I know it’s going to go by quickly.”
Switzerland and the Czech Republic, boasting the most NHL players outside of the traditional powerhouses, are viewed as significant contenders for medals. Yet don’t overlook teams like Germany, not to mention Latvia, which once nearly stunned Canada in the 2014 Olympics—thanks to goaltender Christels Gudrevskis’ impressive 55-save performance. They can’t be dismissed lightly.
Elvis Merzlikins, a Latvian goalkeeper, humorously remarked about future statues if they were to bring back medals, following an encouraging bronze finish at the World Championships.
Islanders winger Ondrej Palat, recalling a disappointing third-place result for the Czech Republic back in 2014, expressed a realistic approach. “We’re not the favorites, but anything can happen in a game,” he said. “We’ll stick to our system and hope to surprise.”
In their first match, the Czech Republic will face the formidable Canadian team on Thursday, just a short time after Switzerland takes on the underdog France.
Unlike the U.S. and Canada, which sometimes enter the World Championships with less strong lineups, these European teams show up with top-tier rosters, emphasizing the importance they place on the IIHF’s annual tournament. Their past experiences have fostered a strong sense of confidence. “We know each other well, and I think that’s our strength,” shared Josi. “Against top teams, teamwork is crucial, and we understand who the favorites are.”
2026 Winter Olympics
After their initial practice in Milan, Josi claimed this Swiss national team may be the best he’s ever played with. The short distance from Switzerland likely means plenty of local support in the stands. Plus, the chemistry among players like Nico Hischier, Timo Meier, and Jonas Siegenthaler is something to behold.
“People grow up watching events like the Olympics. They come around once every four years, and it’s fantastic to experience this now,” Hischier said. “It took some time to get here, but everyone seems genuinely excited to be part of it.”
