MILAN
Team USA’s clear strength in these Olympics—especially against Sweden in the quarterfinals—appears to be their goaltending.
Connor Hellebuyck hasn’t had the best season with the Winnipeg Jets, but his performance for Team USA has been impressive.
“He’s a gamer. I trust him completely, and honestly, there’s no one else I’d want in the net,” Dylan Larkin said about Hellebuyck, who is expected to continue as the starting goalie for the U.S. team. “Last year during the 4 Nations, we realized that even when a big chance came, we could count on him. It’s really reassuring.”
In his two Olympic starts—Jeremy Swayman took the net in the second qualifying round against Denmark—Hellebuyck has been steady, making 40 saves on 42 shots.
Sweden, on the other hand, is facing a goalie conundrum for their game on Wednesday. Jacob Markstrom seemed poised to take the top position from Filip Gustafsson against Latvia, but playing him back-to-back could be demanding. Gustafsson has had a tough time in his earlier games, and Jesper Wallstedt is untested in an Olympic setting.
Meanwhile, Team USA doesn’t share such worries.
“It’s super exciting,” Hellebuyck remarked. “Honestly, this is why I love hockey. I’m not in it for the money or fame. Playing is just fun—these moments make it worthwhile.”
U.S. coach Mike Sullivan started his role with some reflections on the recent shooting at a hockey rink in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. “Coming from Massachusetts, this tragedy really resonates with me, especially since two of my coaches hail from Rhode Island. It’s incredibly heartbreaking, and I just wanted to express my condolences to everyone affected.”
Reports indicate that the boards at Milan’s Santa Giulia Arena have been changed to a bright blue and green after players provided some feedback. There were some whispers that Jeremy Swayman’s darker pads may have contributed to a goal he allowed from just outside the red line, but he dismissed those thoughts after the match.
At practice, Brock Nelson wore a protective ‘fishbowl’ helmet, while Charlie McAvoy was seen without his.
2026 Winter Olympics
Coach Mike Sullivan confirmed that Nelson is dealing with a facial injury.
Team Canada’s Josh Morrissey and Brad Marchand returned to practice after missing two games due to injuries. Coach Jon Cooper indicated that Marchand will play Wednesday, but Morrissey’s status is still unclear.
Nathan MacKinnon and Sam Bennett were also absent from Canada’s practice, noted as being out for maintenance, but both are expected to be available by Wednesday.
