Edmonton Oilers captain and Team Canada Olympian Connor McDavid isn't concerned that the ice surf...

<p>Edmonton Oilers captain and Team Canada Olympian <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4560" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4560">Connor McDavid</a> isn't concerned that the ice surface for the Milan Cortina Games will be over 3 feet shorter than the standard NHL rink.</p><p>"I don't care," McDavid told reporters Saturday. "Not a big deal."</p><p>He said he's more concerned about the quality of the surface.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Obviously, you want the ice to be good, you'd like the ice quality to be good," he added. "The size of it doesn't matter."</p><p>All hockey games in Milan will be played on ice sheets of 196.85 feet by 85.3 feet - over 3 feet shorter than the standard 200 foot by 85 foot NHL rink. The difference in length is expected to be made up in the neutral zone so the offensive zones will match NHL dimensions.</p><p>The main arena in Milan has yet to be completed, though it's reportedly on track to be ready before the Olympics begin. The men's hockey tournament starts Feb. 11, shortly after the women's tournament gets underway Feb. 5.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Quick peek at the main arena in Milan. Obviously, a lot of work needs to get done. The NHL sounded positive earlier this week at BOG meetings the work will get done in time for the Olympics. <a href="https://t.co/58UXkwmDFd">pic.twitter.com/58UXkwmDFd</a></p>— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) <a href="https://twitter.com/DarrenDreger/status/1999526664733126948?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>McDavid was one of six players named to Canada's men's Olympic hockey team in June. He enters Saturday second in NHL scoring with 48 points in 31 games this season.</p>

EDMONTON, CANADA - DECEMBER 9: Connor McDavid #97 of the Edmonton Oilers skates during the first period of the game against the Buffalo Sabres at Rogers Place on December 9, 2025, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

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McDavid: Smaller Olympic ice 'not a big deal'

Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has won just about everything he possibly coul...

<p>Oklahoma City Thunder star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/60411" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/60411">Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</a> has won just about everything he possibly could in the last calendar year: NBA MVP, the NBA championship, Finals MVP, and his second Northern Star Award recognizing Canada's top athlete.</p><p>With the Thunder rolling once again, he has his sights set on history: the league's single-season wins record.</p><p>"Absolutely," Gilgeous-Alexander said Friday when asked if that record meant anything to him and his teammates, per <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/47289603/shai-gilgeous-alexander-says-thunder-want-nba-wins-mark">ESPN's Tim MacMahon</a>. "Winning matters. And no matter what form it looks like to me. So absolutely."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Thunder are a staggering 24-1 so far. The NBA single-season record for wins is 73, set by the 2015-16 Golden State Warriors.</p><p>Oklahoma City has won 16 straight games. Although the Thunder have a long way to go before matching the all-time mark of 33 consecutive victories set by the 1971-72 Los Angeles Lakers, Gilgeous-Alexander is up for the challenge.</p><p>"Wow, that's a lot more games to win," the Hamilton, Ontario, native said. "Yeah, we are so far from that. I didn't even know, so that hasn't even come close to creeping in my mind. But hopefully we get there. That's the goal."</p><p>He also made it clear that winning more championships remains OKC's top priority.</p><p>"We are trying to be a better version of ourselves every night we go out there, and we like to hunt in that form," Gilgeous-Alexander said. "If we didn't get better tonight, then we wasted an opportunity. That's kind of how we see it."</p><p>The Thunder face the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday in the NBA Cup semifinal.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NV - DECEMBER 12: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder smiles during the 2025 Emirate NBA Cup Practice and Media Availability on December 12, 2025 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE

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SGA: Thunder 'absolutely' want to chase down NBA wins record

The New York Mets reached an agreement with infielder Jorge Polanco on a two-year contract worth ...

<p>The New York Mets reached an agreement with infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3558" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3558">Jorge Polanco</a> on a two-year contract worth $40 million, sources told <a href="https://x.com/JeffPassan/status/1999876676394819844">ESPN's Jeff Passan</a>.</p><p>Polanco is reportedly expected to primarily play first base and DH for the Mets in an effort to help fill the void left by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8674" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8674">Pete Alonso</a>, who recently signed with the Baltimore Orioles. </p><p>Polanco primarily played DH and second base in for the Seattle Mariners in 2025. He's played one game at first base in his 12-year MLB career.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 32-year-old switch-hitter slashed .265/.326/.495 with 26 home runs and 78 RBIs in 2025. His .821 OPS was the highest he's posted in a season since 2021, and the third-highest of his career.</p><p>Returning to the Mariners was Polanco's No. 1 choice, and he was "very torn" on the decision to leave, reports <a href="https://x.com/A_Jude/status/1999880619619385403">The Seattle Times' Adam Jude</a>. Seattle was "very competitive" in the sweepstakes, one source said, but while the Mariners matched the Mets' offer on length, they came up short on the dollars, another source told <a href="https://www.mlb.com/news/breaking-down-jorge-polanco-mets-signing-departing-mariners">Daniel Kramer of MLB.com</a>.</p><p>Outside factors also helped sway Polanco to the Mets. His father lives in New York, and the chance to be closer to him during the season apparently played a role in his decision, Kramer reports.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/16327" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/16327">Cole Young</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/10112" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/10112">Leo Rivas</a> currently project to split time at second base for the Mariners in the absence of Polanco.</p><p>Polanco could serve as the primary protection for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> in the Mets' lineup. In addition to losing Alonso, New York traded away a middle-of-the-order-bat in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3045" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3045">Brandon Nimmo</a> to the Texas Rangers in exchange for second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3420" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3420">Marcus Semien</a> earlier in the offseason.</p>

TORONTO, ONTARIO - OCTOBER 19: Jorge Polanco #7 of the Seattle Mariners fouls a ball during the eighth inning against the Toronto Blue Jays in game six of the American League Championship Series at Rogers Centre on October 19, 2025 in Toronto, Ontario.

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Report: Mets signing Polanco to 2-year, $40M deal

Following theScore's Olympic hockey roster projections from last week, we're taking a closer look...

<p><span style="margin:0px; padding:0px; text-align:left">Following theScore's Olympic hockey <a href="https://thescore.com/news/3408377" target="_blank">roster projections</a> from last week, we're taking a closer look at some of the most polarizing bubble players from Canada and the United States as the Dec. 31 roster submission deadline approaches.</span></p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-e9SpC" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/e9SpC/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="80" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><h3>Connor Bedard</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607534/cropped_GettyImages-1246027631.jpg?ts=1703086290" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607534/w220xh124_GettyImages-1246027631.jpg?ts=1703086290 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607534/w320xh180_GettyImages-1246027631.jpg?ts=1703086290 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607534/w640xh360_GettyImages-1246027631.jpg?ts=1703086290 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607534/w768xh432_GettyImages-1246027631.jpg?ts=1703086290 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/607534/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1246027631.jpg?ts=1703086290 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Minas Panagiotakis / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Case for: </strong>Hyped as a generational talent entering the 2023 draft, Bedard has lived up to that billing in his third NHL season after a pair of so-so years to begin his career. He currently sits sixth in NHL scoring with 40 points in 29 games. While that production is impressive, his drastically improved foot speed (his top skating speed is nearly a full mph faster than a year ago) is what should give him a real shot at cracking a loaded Team Canada. If the squad omits Bedard and fails to win gold, fans will view this as one of the worst decisions made by a Canadian Olympic hockey general manager. No pressure, Doug Armstrong.</p><p><strong>Case against: </strong>Bedard's defensive game still leaves a lot to be desired. He ranks in the eighth percentile of <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/">Evolving-Hockey</a>'s defensive rating, a marginal improvement from his first two years. That begs the question about whether head coach Jon Cooper can trust Bedard in a top-six role alongside Connor McDavid or Nathan MacKinnon, where he'll see the best competition from opposing teams. If Cooper lacks that trust, does Bedard fit in the bottom six, where penalty killers and role players might be preferred?</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Prediction: </strong>Makes the team. Although we've left Bedard off our most recent roster projections, his consistently high level of performance is making it increasingly likely that Armstrong finds a spot for him - whether that's by cutting Mark Stone and/or Seth Jarvis. Bedard deserves a chance to hang as a top-six winger. If that doesn't work, he can be the extra forward or sit in the press box. The upside is too high to pass on.</p><h3>Sam Bennett</h3><p><strong>Case for: </strong>Big-game players make big-time plays in big-time games. That's all Bennett has done for the last year or so. His selection for the 4 Nations Face-Off raised some eyebrows, but he had a great tournament. He was even better for the Panthers in the playoffs, winning the Conn Smythe Trophy with 15 goals in 23 postseason appearances. Clutch is hard to measure, but Bennett definitely has it. He's tough, gritty, and a proven winner who will have no issue taking a lesser role as a fourth-line checker. </p><p><strong>Case against: </strong>While Bennett has picked things up a little bit lately, he still hasn't had a great season overall, playing at a 49-point pace<em><strong>. </strong></em>He's also never been a great defensive player, despite his intangibles and physicality. Picking Bennett for his past big-game moments over several players who've significantly outperformed him this season could be a huge mistake.</p><p><strong>Prediction: </strong>Doesn't make the team. It's easy to see why Canada would want to run it back, but multiple players who weren't at the 4 Nations should have surpassed him on the pecking order by now.</p><h3>Macklin Celebrini</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810494/cropped_GettyImages-2215792911.jpg?ts=1765381603" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810494/w220xh124_GettyImages-2215792911.jpg?ts=1765381603 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810494/w320xh180_GettyImages-2215792911.jpg?ts=1765381603 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810494/w640xh360_GettyImages-2215792911.jpg?ts=1765381603 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810494/w768xh432_GettyImages-2215792911.jpg?ts=1765381603 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810494/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2215792911.jpg?ts=1765381603 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Eurasia Sport Images / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Case for: </strong>Celebrini has done everything in his power to earn a long look from Canada's brass. He trails only MacKinnon and McDavid in the Art Ross race with 43 points, establishing himself as a legitimate MVP candidate for single-handedly vaulting the rebuilding Sharks into the Western Conference playoff race. Celebrini's offensive excellence comes on a team that ranks 32nd in five-on-five expected goals, and it's enticing to imagine what he could do alongside Team Canada's cast of stars. Perhaps most importantly for Celebrini's case, he had a strong showing for Canada at the world championship in May, earning high praise from Sidney Crosby. It's hard to argue there's any better person to have in your corner.</p><p><strong>Case against: </strong>Similarly to Bedard, questions persist about where Celebrini can slot into Canada's lineup. With no shortage of centers, Celebrini would likely have to move to the wing. He also doesn't kill penalties or have any big-game experience at the professional level. The 19-year-old is definitely skilled enough to represent Canada, but can he be trusted defensively? Although Celebrini has made positive strides in that department as a sophomore, there's no margin for error on a stage as big as the Olympics.</p><p><strong>Prediction: </strong>Makes the team. Even if it's as an extra forward, Celebrini's earned a spot. His two-way play has improved, and his game-breaking talent should outweigh his age in the evaluation process.</p><h3>Tom Wilson</h3><p><strong>Case for: </strong>Wilson's on pace for a career year offensively with 32 points in 30 games this season. He's also reliable defensively and can kill penalties. With Bennett off to a slow start, Wilson is a strong candidate to fill the same role Bennett played at the 4 Nations Face-Off. There's no denying Wilson is difficult to play against, and he has Stanley Cup pedigree to boot. Canada is short on power forwards, and it's hard to argue there's a more effective option than Wilson at the moment.</p><p><strong>Case against: </strong>Wilson has earned his reputation of being one of the NHL's most polarizing players. His blend of skill and physicality is rare, but he's been suspended six times in his career - usually for dangerous hits. Under IIHF officiating, Wilson will have an incredibly short disciplinary leash. Should he make the team and take a costly penalty, or even a suspension, Canadian fans are likely to be outraged at his selection.</p><p><strong>Prediction: </strong>Makes the team. Canada knows taking Wilson will be a risk, but role players are necessary for success at international tournaments. If Wilson stays out of trouble, he'll make a positive impact all over the ice.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-m8nfM" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/m8nfM/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="80" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811454/cropped_GettyImages-2152390626.jpg?ts=1764100004" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811454/w220xh124_GettyImages-2152390626.jpg?ts=1764100004 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811454/w320xh180_GettyImages-2152390626.jpg?ts=1764100004 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811454/w640xh360_GettyImages-2152390626.jpg?ts=1764100004 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811454/w768xh432_GettyImages-2152390626.jpg?ts=1764100004 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/811454/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2152390626.jpg?ts=1764100004 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Xavier Laine / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><h3>Cole Caufield</h3><p><strong>Case for: </strong>Caufield is a game-breaking talent. He scored 37 goals last season and is on pace for over 45 this year.<strong> </strong>He also has a knack for scoring in big spots, as he's the Montreal Canadiens' all-time leader in overtime winners. While the United States boasts a ton of talent, crunch-time scoring has often been its downfall at best-on-best tournaments. Taking someone who's routinely answered the bell in those spots would be wise.</p><p><strong>Case against: </strong>Listed at 5-foot-8 and 175 pounds, Caufield is small. He's also not a great defensive player and doesn't contribute much if he's not scoring. Team USA general manager Bill Guerin made some questionable roster decisions for the 4 Nations Face-Off, but omitting Caufield was understandable considering how one-dimensional he is.</p><p><strong>Prediction: </strong>Doesn't make the team. Losing the 4 Nations by one goal isn't going to change Guerin's team-building philosophy. Plus, the U.S. has several other players who can produce similar levels of offense to Caufield but are bigger and contribute in other ways, such as Matthew Knies and Cutter Gauthier.</p><h3>Clayton Keller</h3><p><strong>Case for: </strong>Team USA notably snubbed Keller from the 4 Nations roster, a decision that was amplified after he finished the 2024-25 campaign with a career-high 90 points. He's a shifty playmaker who could work great alongside one of America's snipers while also contributing to a power-play unit. Over the past three seasons, Keller ranks ninth among all players with 77 points on the man advantage.</p><p><strong>Case against: </strong>Keller's production is down from last season, and he doesn't have the defensive prowess to be a shoo-in. He's not going to bump Jack Eichel or Auston Matthews down the depth chart and doesn't necessarily fit the mold of a bottom-six center.</p><p><strong>Prediction: </strong>Doesn't make the team. The USA has too many stronger options up front to find a spot for Keller. If he were having a more productive year offensively, it would be much tougher to pass on him.</p><h3>J.T. Miller</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813336/cropped_GettyImages-2202304589.jpg?ts=1765381684" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813336/w220xh124_GettyImages-2202304589.jpg?ts=1765381684 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813336/w320xh180_GettyImages-2202304589.jpg?ts=1765381684 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813336/w640xh360_GettyImages-2202304589.jpg?ts=1765381684 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813336/w768xh432_GettyImages-2202304589.jpg?ts=1765381684 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/813336/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2202304589.jpg?ts=1765381684 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ben Jackson/4NFO / World Cup of Hockey / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Case for: </strong>Miller is extremely versatile, capable of playing center or wing on a scoring or checking line. He's also a veteran leader on what projects to be a young roster compared to Team Canada. Miller is amid a down season, but he's just two years removed from a 103-point campaign.</p><p><strong>Case against: </strong>At 32 years old, Miller has clearly lost a step, as he's on pace for a measly 51 points. His underlying numbers aren't great, either. Selecting him would be the exact type of mistake the U.S. has made in past best-on-best tournaments, such as taking Brock Nelson for the 4 Nations.</p><p><strong>Prediction: </strong>Makes the team. Both Guerin and head coach Mike Sullivan will value Miller's leadership. Sullivan, of course, is Miller's coach with the New York Rangers, and he gave him the captaincy this season for a reason.</p><h3>Jason Robertson</h3><p><strong>Case for: </strong>Robertson admitted that his desire to represent his country at the 4 Nations Face-Off was a distraction during his early struggles last season, and he's responded impressively to being left off the roster. Since the tournament ended in late February, Robertson ranks fourth across the NHL with 34 goals and sixth with 68 points in 58 games. He's on pace for 103 points this season and is defensively responsible enough to be trusted on any line.</p><p><strong>Case against: </strong>The Americans are incredibly deep at left wing. Brady Tkachuk, Jack Hughes, and Matt Boldy - who plays for Guerin in Minnesota - all slotted ahead of Robertson in our latest roster projection. Does Team USA envision Robertson filling a fourth-line role?</p><p><strong>Prediction: </strong>Makes the team. With veterans like Nelson and Chris Kreider - both of whom made the 4 Nations squad - likely out of the picture this time around, there's certainly room for Robertson. He's tied for third in the NHL with 19 goals this season, and it would make little sense for the USA to omit the hot hand with so much pressure riding on this tournament.</p>

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Olympic hockey bubble watch: Cases for, against polarizing fringe players

Pittsburgh Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin is week-to-week with an upper-body injury, the team ann...

<p>Pittsburgh Penguins forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1026" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1026">Evgeni Malkin</a> is week-to-week with an upper-body injury, the team announced Tuesday.</p><p>It's unclear exactly when Malkin suffered the injury, though he missed Pittsburgh's previous game Sunday against the Dallas Stars.</p><p>Malkin is a major reason why the Penguins have been one of the most surprising teams in the NHL this season, as they enter Tuesday holding down a playoff spot after many expected them to be a lottery team. Malkin has recorded 29 points in 26 games, one point back of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1002" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1002">Sidney Crosby</a> for the team lead. Malkin hasn't recorded a point-per-game season since 2022-23, when he notched 83 points in 82 appearances.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 39-year-old is in the final year of his contract, generating speculation that this could be his last NHL season. He said in September that his future will be determined depending on how the season goes.</p><p>Pittsburgh's healthy center options without Malkin include Crosby, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9746" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9746">Tommy Novak</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/16233" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/16233">Ben Kindel</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4037" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4037">Kevin Hayes</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/14079" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/14079">Avery Hayes</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9881" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9881">Connor Dewar</a>.</p>

PITTSBURGH, PA - NOVEMBER 22: Evgeni Malkin #71 of the Pittsburgh Penguins skates during the game against the Seattle Kraken at PPG PAINTS Arena on November 22, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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Malkin week-to-week with upper-body injury

More from this series:   Canada 🇨🇦  United States 🇺🇸  European teams 🇪🇺   With Russia banned from...

<p><strong>More from this series:</strong></p><ul>
<li><em><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3408377" href="https://thescore.com/news/3408377">Canada</a> 🇨🇦</em></li>
<li><em><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3408396" href="https://thescore.com/news/3408396">United States</a> 🇺🇸</em></li>
<li><strong><em>European teams 🇪🇺</em></strong></li>
</ul><p>With Russia banned from international competition, Canada and the U.S. are the consensus favorites to claim gold at the 2026 Olympics. Which European countries can challenge them? Below we rank the participating nations from most to least likely to medal in the Feb. 11-22 tournament held in Milan, Italy.</p><p>(Note: The 12-team men's hockey field splits into three groups. The top two teams from each group advance to the quarterfinals, and the remaining two spots are determined by a qualifying round. A knockout stage then ensues.)</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Sweden 🇸🇪</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-vGdHq" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/vGdHq/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="207" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>If there's one country that can go toe to toe with Canada and the U.S., it's Sweden, which has the requisite depth and high-end talent (most notably on the wings, led by Nylander) to win gold if things break its way.</p><p>The biggest development for Sweden two months into the NHL season is the emergence of Carlsson as an elite top-line center. The third-year Ducks pivot knocks Pettersson, Eriksson Ek, and Zibanejad into more appropriate roles down the lineup and generally beefs up a somewhat weak area on the roster.</p><p>The backbone of Team Sweden, as always, will be its blue line. The super experienced group has a healthy variety of offensive game-breakers (Dahlin, Hedman, Karlsson) and stay-at-home defenders known for slowing down the most dangerous players on the planet (Forsling, Ekholm, Brodin).</p><p>Goaltending is a minor concern with Markstrom struggling in the early going. We penciled him in as the No. 1 guy for now. Wallstedt, who has a .944 save percentage through 10 games, could begin the tournament as the starter if he stays hot.</p><h3>Finland 🇫🇮</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Finland 🇫🇮" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-emgHa" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/emgHa/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="391" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>The Finns' gold-medal chances were dealt a significant blow in September when the country's best player, center Aleksander Barkov, suffered a major knee injury. The Panthers captain is sidelined at least until late April.</p><p>Finland will still ice an intriguing forward group. The incredibly clutch Rantanen is its bona fide superstar, and each of the top three lines features multiple impactful two-way contributors. However, the fourth-liners and extras don't stack up well against depth pieces on Sweden, Canada, and the U.S.</p><p>As for the defense corps, well, it drops off a cliff after Heiskanen, who'll likely log 30 minutes a game in Italy. Finland may go only as far as its goaltending takes it. How does Saros fare after a disappointing two games at the 4 Nations Face-Off? Or is it Lankinen who'll be tasked with saving the day?</p><h3>Czechia 🇨🇿</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-nVRkR" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/nVRkR/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="352" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>The Czechs boast legitimate firepower up front with Pastrnak and Necas. Multiple goalies are capable of getting hot enough to steal games against the tournament's powerhouses. That's a recipe for a Cinderella run all right, but they'll have to overcome concerns on the blue line - specifically the left side.</p><p>Czechia won gold at the 2024 World Championship with several players from this projected roster, including the 40-year-old Cervenka - a Czech league legend who's shown great chemistry with Pastrnak on the international stage.</p><h3>Germany 🇩🇪</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-rsdF7" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/rsdF7/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="263" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Germany is a rising power in men's hockey, having produced a few world-class players over the past decade and won a silver medal at the 2023 Worlds.</p><p>Coach Harold Kreis will lean heavily on his NHL contingent, which includes one megastar (Draisaitl), two young studs (Stutzle, Seider), one burgeoning talent (Peterka), and three less impactful pieces (Reichel, Sturm, Grubauer).</p><p>Germany's in Group C with the U.S., Denmark, and Latvia. It has enough juice to finish second behind the Americans and thus earn a quarterfinal berth.</p><h3>Switzerland 🇨🇭</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-RQuGy" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/RQuGy/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="381" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>With an NHL-caliber top six up front and top four on the back end, Switzerland is much deeper than Germany on paper. The list above doesn't even include ex-NHL forwards Denis Malgin and Sven Andrighetto or veteran goalie Leonardo Genoni, all three of whom are national team stalwarts.</p><p>However, Switzerland's path to medaling could be significantly more difficult than Germany's because Group A also features Canada, Czechia, and France. Its Feb. 15 matchup against Czechia will be particularly huge for both teams.</p><h3>Slovakia 🇸🇰</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-0LvXc" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/0LvXc/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="265" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Slovakia fell off as a tertiary hockey power in the 2010s. But it's relevant again following a bronze medal at the 2022 Olympics (caveat: no NHL participation) and the selection of five players in the first rounds of the 2022 and 2023 drafts.</p><p>That core, led by Slafkovsky and Nemec, should blossom into a feisty squad by the 2030 Olympics. This time around, the Slovaks are the third-best team in Group B (Sweden, Finland, Italy) and thus fighting hard for a quarterfinal spot.</p><h3>Denmark 🇩🇰</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-iTtGQ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/iTtGQ/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="207" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>It's safe to say Andersen will have to be at his very best between the pipes for the Danes to make any sort of noise. That hasn't been the case for the 36-year-old this season in the NHL, but his body of work over a 13-year career suggests that stealing a game or two isn't beyond the realm of possibility, especially in Group C, which includes fellow underdogs Germany and Latvia.</p><h3>Latvia 🇱🇻</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-fxP9E" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/fxP9E/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="236" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>Latvia doesn't have an NHL top-six forward, top-four defenseman, or reliable starting goalie. What it does have: a history of pulling off upsets at marquee tournaments. Canadians, in particular, can recall demoralizing losses to the plucky Latvians at the 2021 Worlds and 2025 world juniors.</p><h3>Italy 🇮🇹</h3><p>Italy will be the only nation in the tournament without a player who's suited up for an NHL game this season. The Italians project to be led by promising goalie Damian Clara, a 2023 second-round pick by the Ducks who's currently playing in Sweden. If the raw, 6-foot-6 20-year-old can put it all together for a brief stretch with the energy of the home crowd behind him, maybe Italy can eke out a win against Slovakia, its most gettable opponent in Group B.</p><h3>France 🇫🇷</h3><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-iwJgt" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/iwJgt/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="90" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p>France is battling two extreme forces: its own dearth of talent and very tough competition in Group A. One standings point would be cause for celebration.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33603103/related

Who can challenge for Olympic gold? Ranking projected European rosters

Tampa Bay Lightning head coach Jon Cooper took aim at the NHL's video review system for a controv...

<p>Tampa Bay Lightning head coach Jon Cooper took aim at the NHL's video review system for a controversial ruling in Thursday's 4-3 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3322" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3322">Nikita Kucherov</a> appeared to tie the game for the Lightning late in regulation, but the goal was overturned due to a hand pass by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5633" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5633">Brandon Hagel</a> earlier in the play.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Nikita Kucherov's goal is taken off the board because of this from Brandon Hagel?<br><br>Really? <a href="https://t.co/W7BfCR2jJJ">pic.twitter.com/W7BfCR2jJJ</a></p>— Evan Closky (@ECloskyWTSP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ECloskyWTSP/status/1996773316586254619?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Here's a closer look at the hand pass.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Lightning tied the game LATE in the 3rd period but the goal was OVERTURNED after a league-initiated review for a hand-pass from Brandon Hagel 😵‍💫 <a href="https://t.co/WQLZN6WtE7">pic.twitter.com/WQLZN6WtE7</a></p>— Gino Hard (@GinoHard_) <a href="https://twitter.com/GinoHard_/status/1996774723636596870?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Penguins held on for the victory in the final minute.</p><p>Cooper took issue with the ruling postgame, arguing that Hagel swatted the puck down in self-defense.</p><p>"Was there an advantage gained or not? You could really debate whether an advantage was gained," Cooper said. "Did Brandon Hagel direct that puck knowing exactly where it was going? No."</p><p>He added: "I think if you read the rulebook, which we did, and you try to dissect what happened, and take it all into consideration, it's laughable that it got overturned."</p><p>The part that appeared to irk Cooper the most was that the NHL's Situation Room initiated the review. In the final minute of play in the third period and at any point in overtime, NHL hockey operations can initiate a review of any scenario that would otherwise be subject to a coach's challenge.</p><p>"None of the (on-ice officials) thought it was a hand pass," Cooper said. "There's four of them. It's the evils of video replay. Now there's eyes on everything and camera angles and judgement calls. In the judgement of everybody playing the game, that was not a hand pass."</p><p>Cooper added: "Somebody that's not even in Florida is making that call. That can be a little bit frustrating."</p><p>The ruling wasn't the only one to upset a coach during Thursday night's action across the league. Colorado Avalanche bench boss Jared Bednar <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3419126" href="https://thescore.com/news/3419126">called</a> goalie interference "a joke" after a failed challenge in his team's 6-3 loss to the New York Islanders.</p>

TAMPA, FL - NOVEMBER 16: Head Coach Jon Cooper of the Tampa Bay Lightning against the Vancouver Canucks at Benchmark International Arena on November 16, 2025 in Tampa, Florida.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33600114/related

Cooper calls Lightning's overturned goal 'laughable' after hand pass ruling

Colorado Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar was irate with the ruling on the New York Islanders' f...

<p>Colorado Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar was irate with the ruling on the New York Islanders' first goal in Thursday's 6-3 loss.</p><p>A chaotic scramble in front of Colorado's net led to New York striking first. The Avalanche challenged for goalie interference, but the call stood. Here's a look at the play:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">MACLEAN'S FIRST OF THE SEASON MAKES IT 1-0. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LGI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LGI</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Ford?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FORD</a> <a href="https://t.co/t90uLFp4yu">pic.twitter.com/t90uLFp4yu</a></p>— New York Islanders (@NYIslanders) <a href="https://twitter.com/NYIslanders/status/1996737469211902124?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>"Goalie interference is a joke. If that's not goalie interference, I don't know what is," Bednar said postgame, according to <a href="https://x.com/cmasisak22/status/1996777072086438371">The Denver Post's Corey Masisak</a>. "You can't just shove the goalie's pads out of the way and create a loose puck."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>However, the NHL <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/colorado-avalanche-new-york-islanders-coach-challenge-x1226?utm_source=xdotcom&amp;utm_medium=nhl_social&amp;utm_campaign=pr">stated</a> that video review supported the referees' decision, concluding that incidental contact with Colorado goaltender <a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4779">Mackenzie Blackwood</a> occurred as New York players made a play on a loose puck and didn't constitute goaltender interference.</p><p>The Islanders built a 4-0 lead before the Avalanche trimmed the deficit to 5-3, but New York added an empty-netter to seal the win.</p><p>The result marked just the second regulation loss of the season for the Avalanche, who sit atop the NHL's standings with a 19-2-6 record.</p>

VANCOUVER, CANADA - NOVEMBER 9: Head coach Jared Bednar of the Colorado Avalanche looks on from the bench during their NHL game against the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena on November 9, 2025 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

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Avs' Bednar slams officiating in loss to Isles: 'Goalie interference is a joke'

Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Joseph Woll exited Thursday's 5-1 win over the Carolina Hurricanes...

<p>Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8266" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8266">Joseph Woll</a> exited Thursday's 5-1 win over the Carolina Hurricanes due to a lower-body injury and didn't return.</p><p>Woll stopped 22 of 23 shots through 40 minutes before being replaced by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13814" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13814">Dennis Hildeby</a> to begin the third period. Hildeby made nine saves in relief to secure the victory.</p><p>Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube had no details to share postgame about the severity of Woll's injury.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Right now, I can't give you that answer. I really don't know. Hopefully it's not (serious)," Berube told reporters postgame, adding that the team will know more Friday.</p><p>Woll was away from the team for the first month of the season due to a personal matter. He's been excellent since returning, sporting a .927 save percentage while starting eight of Toronto's nine games.</p><p>The Maple Leafs are currently without fellow goalie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9766" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9766">Anthony Stolarz</a>, who hasn't played since suffering an upper-body injury on Nov. 11 - four days before Woll's season debut. Berube said Nov. 20 that Stolarz's issue was "worse than we thought."</p><p>Hildeby, 24, has posted a .919 save percentage in seven NHL appearances this campaign. Next up on Toronto's goalie depth chart would be <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9228" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9228">Artur Akhtyamov</a> or <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10574" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10574">Vyacheslav Peksa</a>, neither of whom has any NHL experience.</p>

NEWARK, NJ - APRIL 09: Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Joseph Woll (60) tends the net during a game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and New Jersey Devils on April 9, 2024 at Prudential Center in the Newark, New Jersey.

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Maple Leafs' Woll suffers lower-body injury vs. Hurricanes

Team Canada men's Olympic hockey general manager Doug Armstrong isn't going to let the smaller ic...

<p>Team Canada men's Olympic hockey general manager Doug Armstrong isn't going to let the smaller ice surface in Milan impact any roster selections, though it may require some extra film review.</p><p>"It won't affect how we choose the roster, but it will be interesting," Armstrong told <a href="https://www.cbc.ca/sports/olympics/winter/hockey/canada-hockey-olympic-mens-gm-doug-armstrong-2025-9.7002215">CBC's Karissa Donkin</a>. "We'll have to get out the old VHS tapes and look at the Aud and the old Boston Gardens to see how to play in that smaller barn."</p><p>The IIHF has <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3416903" href="https://thescore.com/news/3416903">reportedly</a> approved an ice sheet in Milan that measures 196.85 feet by 85.3 feet - over 3 feet shorter than the standard 200 feet by 85 feet NHL rink. Most European IIHF rinks are roughly the same length but significantly wider, measuring 197 feet by 98.5 feet.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Despite construction delays, the arena in Milan is expected to be ready for test events in January.</p><p>Olympic rosters don't need to be submitted until Dec. 31, but Armstrong said Canada's management group will hash out the majority of the squad during a three-day meeting beginning Sunday in Florida.</p><p>"We're hoping to walk out of this meeting with a large portion of the group going from pencil to pen," Armstrong told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6860638/2025/12/04/canada-olympic-roster-doug-armstrong/">The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun</a>. "The players have had two months to show their wares and now after this, we're really going to home in on the final selection process, take this to the coaches, and find out where they believe the holes are in our group for things that they may need - whether that's penalty killers, power-play people, faceoffs - and sort of use the last month to confirm that our pen players stay in pen, which we hope they will. We think they will. That's been the history of these selection processes.</p><p>"And then round out the rest. And make sure if we have injuries from that group, we have a list that we're comfortable with to continue to monitor for replacements."</p><p>The men's Olympic tournament begins Feb. 11.</p>

ST. LOUIS, MO - July 23: St. Louis Blues General Manager Doug Armstrong speaks with the Blues draft pick Zachary Bolduc during the 2021 NHL Entry Draft at the Enterprise Center on July 23, 2021 in St. Louis, Missouri.

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Armstrong: Smaller Olympic ice 'won't affect' Canada's roster decisions

More from this series:   Canada 🇨🇦  United States 🇺🇸  European teams 🇪🇺   Olympic hockey is on th...

<p><strong>More from this series:</strong></p><ul>
<li><em><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3408377" href="https://thescore.com/news/3408377">Canada</a> 🇨🇦</em></li>
<li><strong><em>United States 🇺🇸</em></strong></li>
<li><em><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3408398" href="https://thescore.com/news/3408398">European teams</a> 🇪🇺</em></li>
</ul><p>Olympic hockey is on the horizon. The men's tournament is set for Feb. 11-22 in Italy, and final rosters are due in roughly four weeks, on Dec. 31.</p><p>Below is a projection of Team USA's 25-man Olympic roster. We picked players who we believe the United States' brain trust - led by general manager Bill Guerin - will take, not who we would personally select.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Note: Bolded players were named to the team in June.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812297/USA_FORWARDS.jpg?ts=1764701553" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812297/USA_FORWARDS.jpg?ts=1764701553 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812297/USA_FORWARDS.jpg?ts=1764701553 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812297/USA_FORWARDS.jpg?ts=1764701553 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812297/USA_FORWARDS.jpg?ts=1764701553 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812297/USA_FORWARDS.jpg?ts=1764701553 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-1DUUu" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/1DUUu/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="207" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><strong>Toughest omissions: </strong>Cole Caufield, Logan Cooley, Cutter Gauthier, Clayton Keller, Shane Pinto<strong> </strong></p><p>Did you really think an overtime loss to Canada in the 4 Nations Face-Off final would completely change Guerin's team-building philosophy? Not a chance.</p><p>The lower half of the U.S.' forward group will be filled mostly with heavier players who can check, which is why we omitted smaller, high-skill players like Caufield, Cooley, and Keller. Robertson, who's 6-foot-3, 204 pounds but doesn't have great speed or tenacity, is one pick we don't feel super confident about. That said, we couldn't deny him a roster spot based on how well he's played for the Stars all year (36 points in 28 games) - and especially of late.</p><p>Thompson and Knies are the only other projected forwards who weren't on the 4 Nations squad. A tantalizing one-time option for the top power-play unit, the 6-foot-6 Thompson's tied for third in goals over the past two seasons.</p><p>It's easy to see why Guerin would be infatuated with Knies, the 6-foot-3, 232-pound Maple Leafs winger who's strong on the puck and crafty in tight quarters. His game should translate well to a depth role on a loaded team, though he could climb the lineup to play with longtime linemate Matthews. </p><p>The Trocheck and Miller picks may raise some eyebrows, but U.S. head coach Mike Sullivan will surely be pounding the table for a right-handed center whom he can count on to win key defensive-zone draws. Pinto received consideration, but we gave Trocheck the edge because of how dependable he's been for Sullivan and the Rangers this season, when healthy. Sullivan gave Miller the "C" in New York, and while it's been a tough year, Team USA's decision-makers value the 33-year-old's competitive fire, toughness, and versatility.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812296/USA_DEFENSEMEN.jpg?ts=1764701550" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812296/USA_DEFENSEMEN.jpg?ts=1764701550 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812296/USA_DEFENSEMEN.jpg?ts=1764701550 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812296/USA_DEFENSEMEN.jpg?ts=1764701550 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812296/USA_DEFENSEMEN.jpg?ts=1764701550 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812296/USA_DEFENSEMEN.jpg?ts=1764701550 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-DiDWf" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/DiDWf/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="178" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><strong>Toughest omission: </strong>Jackson LaCombe</p><p>Most spots on the American blue line are spoken for. Hughes and McAvoy are already on the team. Slavin, Faber, Werenski, and Sanderson are virtual locks.</p><p>Fox has bounced back nicely after a down 2024-25 campaign that included a concerning performance at 4 Nations. While the 2021 Norris Trophy winner is battling an injury, and the timeline for his return is a little foggy, we believe Fox's playmaking chops would be hugely beneficial to the U.S.' defense corps.</p><p>The last spot could be filled by several defensemen, including 4 Nations member Noah Hanifin, defensive stalwart Mikey Anderson, or wily vet John Carlson. (Sorry, Lane Hutson fans, you'll have to wait until next Olympics.)</p><p>Realistically, Jones and LaCombe probably have the inside track. LaCombe is undoubtedly one of the NHL's brightest young D-men, but Jones gets the nod because he has the size and championship pedigree Guerin seemingly covets. It doesn't hurt that Jones' right shot balances out the group.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812295/USA_GOALIES.jpg?ts=1764701551" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812295/USA_GOALIES.jpg?ts=1764701551 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812295/USA_GOALIES.jpg?ts=1764701551 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812295/USA_GOALIES.jpg?ts=1764701551 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812295/USA_GOALIES.jpg?ts=1764701551 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812295/USA_GOALIES.jpg?ts=1764701551 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-VvvG8" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/VvvG8/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="148" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><strong>Toughest omission: </strong>Spencer Knight</p><p>This trio remains unchanged from 4 Nations.</p><p>Hellebuyck is currently out with a knee injury, but he's projected to return before the Olympics. The reigning Hart Trophy winner will be Team USA's starting goalie - at least to begin the tournament. If he struggles yet again in a big-game setting, anything can happen. The Americans have enviable depth.</p><p>Knight has been lights out for the Blackhawks this season and warrants consideration. However, neither Oettinger nor Swayman have played their way off the roster. Key context: If Guerin was willing to pick Swayman for 4 Nations amid the worst season of his career, it's hard to imagine the GM would leave the Bruins netminder off the Olympic team during a resurgent campaign.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33591973/related

Projecting United States' 2026 Olympic men's hockey roster

<p><strong>More from this series:</strong></p><ul>
<li><em><strong>Canada 🇨🇦</strong></em></li>
<li><em><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3408396" href="https://thescore.com/news/3408396">United States</a> 🇺🇸</em></li>
<li><em><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3408398" href="https://thescore.com/news/3408398">European teams</a> 🇪🇺</em></li>
</ul><p>Olympic hockey is on the horizon. The men's tournament is set for Feb. 11-22 in Italy, and rosters are due four weeks from Wednesday, on Dec. 31.</p><p>Below is a projection of Team Canada's 25-man Olympic roster. We picked players who we believe Canada's brain trust - led by general manager Doug Armstrong - will take, not who we would personally select.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Note: Bolded players were named to the team in June.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812299/Forwards.jpg?ts=1764701554" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812299/Forwards.jpg?ts=1764701554 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812299/Forwards.jpg?ts=1764701554 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812299/Forwards.jpg?ts=1764701554 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812299/Forwards.jpg?ts=1764701554 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812299/Forwards.jpg?ts=1764701554 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-YWUWs" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/YWUWs/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="257" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><strong>Toughest omissions: </strong>Connor Bedard, Sam Bennett, Mark Scheifele</p><p>Canada's 14-man forward group can be split into four subgroups. Two are non-controversial: McDavid, Point, Crosby, MacKinnon, and Reinhart are already on the team, while Marner, Hagel, and Marchand are virtual locks.</p><p>Cirelli, Stone, and Jarvis make up the third group. Each of them was on February's 4 Nations Face-Off squad, and each has the trust of head coach Jon Cooper - Cirelli for his shutdown abilities, Stone for his veteran savvy, Jarvis for his versatility. Remember: Armstrong and his staff are trying to build the very best <em>team </em>possible. Every player must fill a role, sometimes multiple.</p><p>That leaves three spots. Suzuki, who's racked up 67 points in 51 games since 4 Nations, is the perfect third-line center. Celebrini has quickly become one of the best two-way forwards in the entire NHL and slots nicely at third-line left wing. And right-winger Wilson brings a unicorn skill set: a mix of shooting, playmaking, big-man physicality, and lockdown defense.</p><p>We believe Canada's managers will think long and hard about Bedard (currently third in league scoring) but ultimately opt to fill the depth spots with more experienced, well-rounded players. Scheifele is a tough cut as another top-10 scorer. Bennett, a practical shoo-in coming into the season, is also on the outside looking in following a poor first 25 games for the Panthers.</p><p>Wyatt Johnston, John Tavares, Bo Horvat, Travis Konecny, and Morgan Geekie are five other players surely garnering serious consideration up front.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812298/DEFENSE.jpg?ts=1764701553" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812298/DEFENSE.jpg?ts=1764701553 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812298/DEFENSE.jpg?ts=1764701553 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812298/DEFENSE.jpg?ts=1764701553 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812298/DEFENSE.jpg?ts=1764701553 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812298/DEFENSE.jpg?ts=1764701553 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-S97JK" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/S97JK/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="218" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><strong>Toughest omission: </strong>Matthew Schaefer</p><p>We believe Canada will return the same defense corps that won the 4 Nations, even if it makes this exercise less exciting. (Seven defensemen were permitted at that event, but Harley was added mid-tournament after Theodore's injury.)</p><p>Toews is the closest thing to a lock outside of Makar. Morrissey, Harley, and Theodore all bring offense (and power-play quarterbacking capabilities, if Makar were to miss any time), but none of them have an outsized amount of risk in their game compared to someone like Evan Bouchard. Parayko and Sanheim present much-needed size and snarl and will likely be counted on to kill penalties.</p><p>Doughty was fresh off a significant ankle injury at 4 Nations yet showed he can handle the speed of best-on-best hockey. His experience as a two-time Olympian and two-time Stanley Cup champion make him an easy choice.</p><p>With due respect to players like Bouchard, Jakob Chychrun, Noah Dobson, and Brandon Montour, Schaefer was the only defenseman who really gave us pause. What the 18-year-old phenom is doing for the Islanders is nothing short of remarkable. However, it's worth noting that New York has sheltered him from opposing top lines all season. Against countries like the United States and Sweden, there's nowhere to hide, so we think Armstrong will err on the side of caution and keep intact the group that flourished at 4 Nations.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812294/GOALIES.jpg?ts=1764701552" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812294/GOALIES.jpg?ts=1764701552 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812294/GOALIES.jpg?ts=1764701552 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812294/GOALIES.jpg?ts=1764701552 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812294/GOALIES.jpg?ts=1764701552 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/812294/GOALIES.jpg?ts=1764701552 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-RaOOJ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/RaOOJ/3/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="148" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}});</script></figure><p><strong>Toughest omissions: </strong>Mackenzie Blackwood, Darcy Kuemper</p><p>Binnington, Adin Hill, and Sam Montembeault were Canada's goalies at 4 Nations. All three have struggled mightily in 2025-26 (save percentages below .890), and Hill's appeared in just five games for Vegas due to injury.</p><p>In other words, Canada's goaltending room will look much different in Italy. </p><p>Binnington, a key member of the 2019 Stanley Cup-winning Blues, will be the one familiar face. He was between the pipes for every minute of the 4 Nations experience and stoned the Americans multiple times in a dramatic, tension-filled title game. Even in a down year, Binnington's big-game resume holds tremendous value for a nation without a legitimate star goalie to call upon.</p><p>Thompson, meanwhile, is rocking a .913 SV% and strong underlying numbers in 62 games over the past two seasons. Leaving the Capitals starter off the Olympic roster would be indefensible given the lackluster other options.</p><p>Wedgewood would fill the No. 3 role well. He's built a terrific reputation as a career backup and happens to be excelling in an expanded role this year (.920 SV% in 19 games). His stiffest competition has either been hurt for much of the season (Blackwood) or is fading into the background with good-but-not-great late-career numbers (Kuemper). Wedgewood sticks out.</p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/33575907/related

Projecting Canada's 2026 Olympic men's hockey roster

Buffalo Sabres captain Rasmus Dahlin was handed a five-minute major and a game misconduct for boa...

<p>Buffalo Sabres captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7216" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7216">Rasmus Dahlin</a> was handed a five-minute major and a game misconduct for boarding Philadelphia Flyers forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9757" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9757">Trevor Zegras</a> on Wednesday.</p><p>A scrum ensued immediately after the hit.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Rasmus Dahlin receives a 5 minute major and a game misconduct for his hit on Zegras <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LetsGoBuffalo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LetsGoBuffalo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LetsGoFlyers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LetsGoFlyers</a> <a href="https://t.co/I9ZhvzyEHV">pic.twitter.com/I9ZhvzyEHV</a></p>— Buffalo Hockey Moments (@SabresPlays) <a href="https://twitter.com/SabresPlays/status/1996402194124566673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Here's another look at the initial play.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">replay <a href="https://t.co/ZKMrPjjb5N">pic.twitter.com/ZKMrPjjb5N</a></p>— Buffalo Hockey Moments (@SabresPlays) <a href="https://twitter.com/SabresPlays/status/1996402669720867177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 4, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Zegras was down on the ice momentarily but was able to stay in the game. The 24-year-old has thrived during his first season in Philadelphia, leading the team with 26 points in as many games.</p><p>Dahlin has never been suspended in his eight-year NHL career.</p>

PHILADELPHIA , PA - DECEMBER 03: Buffalo Sabres defenseman Rasmus Dahlin #26 is ejected from the game during the game between the Buffalo Sabers and the Philadelphia Flyers on December 3rd, 2025 at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia, PA.

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Sabres' Dahlin ejected for boarding Flyers' Zegras

The Toronto Blue Jays brought free-agent outfielder Kyle Tucker to their facility in Dunedin, Flo...

<p>The Toronto Blue Jays brought free-agent outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wbc/players/8173" href="https://thescore.com/wbc/players/8173">Kyle Tucker</a> to their facility in Dunedin, Florida, for a visit Wednesday, sources told <a href="https://fansided.com/mlb/sources-kyle-tucker-spotted-visiting-blue-jays-facility">FanSided's Robert Murray</a>.</p><p>Tucker, who hails from nearby Tampa Bay, is expected to land a lucrative contract as arguably the top free-agent slugger available.</p><p>The 28-year-old left-handed hitter slashed .266/.377/.464 with 22 home runs, 73 RBIs, and 25 stolen bases in 136 games with the Chicago Cubs last season. It marked Tucker's fifth straight campaign posting at least 4.5 WAR and an OPS above .800. He played the first seven years of his career with the Houston Astros before getting traded to the Cubs last offseason.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Toronto's outfield options include <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9524" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9524">Daulton Varsho</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2931" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2931">George Springer</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/14202" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/14202">Addison Barger</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5788" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5788">Nathan Lukes</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8303" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8303">Anthony Santander</a>. However, the team primarily used Springer as a designated hitter last season, and Barger can play third base.</p><p>Infielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9615" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9615">Bo Bichette</a> is Toronto's most prominent free agent, and both sides have expressed interest in a reunion. It's unclear if the club could afford both Bichette and Tucker.</p><p>The Blue Jays have been one of the busiest teams to begin free agency, adding right-handers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8145" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8145">Dylan Cease</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8204" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8204">Cody Ponce</a> to bolster their pitching staff. </p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - AUGUST 18: Kyle Tucker #30 of the Chicago Cubs looks on from the on deck area in a game against the Milwaukee Brewers at Wrigley Field on August 18, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Report: Blue Jays host visit with Kyle Tucker

Dallas Stars forward Tyler Seguin had to be helped off the ice by his teammates after an awkward ...

<p>Dallas Stars forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1693" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1693">Tyler Seguin</a> had to be helped off the ice by his teammates after an awkward collision in the first period of Tuesday's 3-2 overtime loss to the New York Rangers.</p><p>Rangers defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7291" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7291">Vladislav Gavrikov</a> appeared to fall directly on Seguin's right leg. Seguin seemingly favored that leg as he left the ice and he didn't return.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Tyler Seguin exited tonight's game after colliding with the Rangers' Vladislav Gavrikov. <a href="https://t.co/Z5YJ9mbZhb">pic.twitter.com/Z5YJ9mbZhb</a></p>— Victory+ (@victoryplustv) <a href="https://twitter.com/victoryplustv/status/1996010987527209029?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Stars head coach Glen Gulutzan had no postgame update on Seguin, adding that the forward would be re-evaluated Wednesday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Seguin entered Tuesday with seven goals and 10 assists in 26 games.</p><p>The 33-year-old veteran was limited to just 20 regular-season appearances last season due to a hip injury that required surgery.</p>

OTTAWA, CANADA - NOVEMBER 11: Tyler Seguin #91 of the Dallas Stars skates against the Ottawa Senators in the second period at Canadian Tire Centre on November 11, 2025 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

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Stars' Seguin helped off ice after awkward collision

The Montreal Canadiens, Minnesota Wild, and Dallas Stars are among the long list of teams who hav...

<p>The Montreal Canadiens, Minnesota Wild, and Dallas Stars are among the long list of teams who have kicked tires on Vancouver Canucks forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7628" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7628">Kiefer Sherwood</a>, reports <a href="https://www.tsn.ca/nhl/video/2025/12/02/insider-trading-lots-of-interest-in-canucks-sherwood/">TSN's Pierre LeBrun</a>.</p><p>The Canucks, who enter Tuesday 30th in the NHL standings, are <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3408997" href="https://thescore.com/news/3408997">reportedly</a> willing to listen to trade offers for their veteran players in an attempt to get younger.</p><p>Sherwood, 30, is in the final year of his contract with a $1.5-million cap hit.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 6-foot, 194-pound winger leads the Canucks with 12 goals in 26 games this season and ranks second among all NHL skaters with 106 hits. He's coming off a breakout year in 2024-25 in which he set career highs with 19 goals, 21 assists, and led the league with a staggering 462 hits.</p><p>The Canucks would be seeking at least a second-round pick in return for Sherwood if they decide to move him, reports <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6834909/2025/11/25/canucks-standings-quinn-hughes-kiefer-sherwood/">The Athletic's Thomas Drance</a>.</p>

SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 28: Kiefer Sherwood #44 of the Vancouver Canucks skates against the San Jose Sharks in the first period of an NHL hockey game at SAP Center on November 28, 2025 in San Jose, California.

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Report: Canadiens, Wild, Stars among teams interested in Sherwood

Connor Bedard engineered an impressive comeback for the Chicago Blackhawks in Sunday's 5-3 win ov...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13829" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13829">Connor Bedard</a> engineered an impressive comeback for the Chicago Blackhawks in Sunday's 5-3 win over the Anaheim Ducks.</p><p>The Blackhawks scored five unanswered goals in the victory, with the last two coming from Bedard.</p><p>First, Bedard showcased his filthy hands to score the game-winner midway through the third period.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">THE HANDS ON THE KID 🤯 <a href="https://t.co/lBMGok3q49">pic.twitter.com/lBMGok3q49</a></p>— NHL (@NHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL/status/1995265885880172549?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>He then had some words for the Ducks bench after potting the empty-netter to seal the victory.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bedard chirps at the Ducks’ bench after his second goal of the night 🗣️ <a href="https://t.co/GmV2bsPtOq">pic.twitter.com/GmV2bsPtOq</a></p>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1995272050035102181?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Bedard added two assists for his third four-point game of the season. He's up to 37 points in 25 appearances on the campaign, tied with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/15142" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/15142">Macklin Celebrini</a> for second among all NHL skaters.</p>

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - NOVEMBER 30: Connor Bedard #98 of the Chicago Blackhawks celebrates a goal with teammates against the Anaheim Ducks during the third period at the United Center on November 30, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.

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Bedard nets game-winner to cap Blackhawks' epic comeback vs. Ducks

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<p>New York Mets shortstop <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/2909" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/2909">Francisco Lindor</a> verbally attacked teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4912" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4912">Jeff McNeil</a> following a defensive lapse that contributed to the team's seventh straight loss June 20 against the Philadelphia Phillies, <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/11/28/sports/revealed-second-lindor-mcneil-battle-soto-relationship-underscore-mets-issues/?sr_share=twitter&amp;utm_campaign=nypost_sports&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_social_handle_id=589269098&amp;utm_source=twitter&amp;utm_social_post_id=610498589">The New York Post's Mike Puma</a> reports.</p><p>"A play didn't get made and that pissed (Lindor) off," a source who was nearby the confrontation told Puma.</p><p>The incident reportedly led to a tense standoff between the two, although there's no evidence to show it escalated into a physical altercation. </p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>This isn't the first time Lindor and McNeil have had their differences in five seasons as Mets teammates. Lindor reportedly grabbed McNeil by the throat and pinned him against a wall in the tunnel behind the Mets dugout in 2021 after the two middle infielders argued about a defensive play that wasn't made. The incident was infamously played off as a disagreement over whether McNeil saw a rat or a racoon in the tunnel.</p><p>The days of Lindor and McNeil making up the Mets' middle infield is likely over, though. New York recently acquired two-time Gold Glove second baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3420" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3420">Marcus Semien</a> from the Texas Rangers in exchange for outfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3045" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3045">Brandon Nimmo</a>. The deal is expected to move McNeil to the outfield on a full-time basis if he remains with the organization.</p><p>McNeil has two years left on his contract with a club option for 2027. He hit .243 with 12 home runs and 54 RBIs last season.</p><p>Lindor has six more seasons left on his contract and finished top 10 in NL MVP voting for the fourth consecutive campaign in 2025.</p>

NEW YORK, NY - JULY 02: Francisco Lindor #12 and Jeff McNeil #1 of the New York Mets celebrate after winning the game between the Milwaukee Brewers and the New York Mets at Citi Field on Wednesday, July 2, 2025 in New York, New York.

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<p>The Nashville Predators are open to listening to trade offers for veteran forwards <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1152" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1152">Steven Stamkos</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2870" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2870">Jonathan Marchessault</a>, reports <a href="https://www.tsn.ca/nhl/article/early-trading-what-does-it-mean-that-the-canucks-are-ready-to-deal/">TSN's Darren Dreger</a>.</p><p>The Predators signed Stamkos and Marchessault as part of their 2024 free-agency splash, but the acquisitions haven't worked out as hoped.</p><p>Stamkos is in the second season of a four-year deal with an $8-million cap hit. The 35-year-old has been limited to four goals and one assist in 22 games this season after collecting 53 points a year ago.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Marchessault has managed just four goals and two assists in 19 contests this campaign after tallying 56 points in 2024-25. The 34-year-old is in the second season of a five-year deal with a $5.5-million cap hit.</p><p>The Predators missed the 2025 playoffs and find themselves last in the NHL standings this season. General manager Barry Trotz, the man responsible for signing Stamkos and Marchessault, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3408519" href="https://thescore.com/news/3408519">called out his players</a> in an interview released Monday. The club responded by losing 8-3 to the Florida Panthers that night.</p>

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - JANUARY 14: Steven Stamkos #91 celebrates his goal with Jonathan Marchessault #81 of the Nashville Predators against the Vegas Golden Knights during an NHL game at Bridgestone Arena on January 14, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee.

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Mike Modano is embracing the inevitable of Detroit Red Wings forward Patrick Kane breaking his re...

<p>Mike Modano is embracing the inevitable of Detroit Red Wings forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/267" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/267">Patrick Kane</a> breaking his record for most NHL points by a player born in the United States.</p><p>Kane, who's collected 1,355 points in 1,316 career games, is 20 points away from passing Modano for sole possession of first place.</p><p>"The end is coming here soon," Modano told <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/sitting-down-with-mike-modano-talks-patrick-kane-chase-of-usa-scoring-mark">NHL.com's Nicholas J. Cotsonika</a>. "I knew years ago that he might be one - that if he stayed healthy, that he would be the guy that kind of goes after it. Obviously, he's had a phenomenal career and is one of the best ever.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"It's getting down to the nitty gritty, so it's only a matter of time before I get a call from (Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman) wanting to know if I want to be at a game."</p><p>Modano, a Michigan native, said he would happily accept an invite to stand witness to the record-breaking moment.</p><p>"I'd love to be there and definitely would make the effort to be there for that one," he said. "That would be a great milestone, and to see it done would be pretty cool."</p><p>Modano has held the record for 18 years after passing Phil Housley in 2007. He's also the record holder for the most goals scored by a U.S.-born player with 561, but it might be only a matter of time before that vanishes too. Kane is within striking distance at 495 goals, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5586" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Auston Matthews</a> - who's just 28 years old - is already at 410.</p><p>"Well, I thought Matthews was at a pace to kind of go get it. I think he still is," Modano said. "But that might be one that's a little farther down the road than the points one, so I might hold onto that one a little longer."</p><p>Kane, 37, has tallied three goals and nine assists in 14 games for the Red Wings this season.</p>

NEWARK, NEW JERSEY - NOVEMBER 24: Patrick Kane #88 of the Detroit Red Wings looks on during the third period of the NHL game against the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center on November 24, 2025 in Newark, New Jersey.

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