McDavid, Crosby Lead Canadian Men’s Hockey Prep for 2026 Olympic Games
Connor McDavid and Sidney Crosby were among the top players who attended Hockey Canada’s orientation camp in Calgary to prepare for the 2026 Winter Games in Milan and Cortina, Italy. The camp brought together 92 NHL, women’s, and para-hockey players, emphasizing the unity and pride of representing Canada on the international stage.
McDavid, Crosby, Sam Reinhart, Nathan McKinnon, Brayden Point, and Cale Makar were among the first players named to Canada’s 2026 men’s team. With the hope of adding more NHL players to the 25-man Olympic roster, the camp served as a crucial step in the preparation for the upcoming Games.
The return of NHL players to the Olympics after missing the past two Games in Pyeongchang and Beijing adds a new level of excitement and competition. Crosby and Drew Doughty, the only players with previous Olympic experience, bring valuable leadership to a team filled with talented newcomers.
For Crosby, the opportunity to compete at the Olympics once again is a special and motivating experience. As a veteran player, he understands the significance of representing his country on the world stage and is grateful for the chance to be part of the team.
McDavid and Reinhart, both Olympic rookies, recognize the importance of cherishing this opportunity and are eager to make the most of their first Olympic experience. Having already tasted success on the international stage with Canada’s win at the 4 Nations tournament, they are prepared for the challenge that awaits them at the Olympics.
The orientation camp provided players with a glimpse into the Olympic environment, including discussions on logistics, team structures, and game strategies. While the focus was on off-ice preparation, the players are eager to hit the ice and fine-tune their skills before the Games begin.
With the NHL season pausing for the Olympic break in February, players are focused on peaking for both the Games and the upcoming NHL playoffs. The intensity and speed of international competition will push them to elevate their game and showcase their talent on the world stage.
As Canada prepares to face off against top teams at the Olympics, the camaraderie and unity among players will be key to their success. With a mix of veteran leadership and young talent, the team is poised to make a strong impact at the 2026 Winter Games in Milan and Cortina.
