USA Hockey Unveils Roster for 2026 Olympics
The United States men’s national ice hockey team has announced its roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics, with a mix of experienced players and new additions. Tage Thompson and Clayton Keller, who helped the U.S. win the world hockey championship for the first time since 1933, are among the notable inclusions. Seth Jones, a key player in the Florida Panthers’ second consecutive Stanley Cup run, also made the cut.
The roster was unveiled on the “Today” show, with general manager Bill Guerin expressing his enthusiasm for the team’s chemistry and playing style. “I liked the way we played: Everybody was together, everybody played the right way,” Guerin said. “The biggest thing for me was the chemistry, and I think the chemistry allowed the guys to play the way that they did.” The team’s performance at the 4 Nations tournament in February, where they made the final before losing to Canada in overtime, was a key factor in the selection process.
Roster Breakdown
The U.S. roster includes a total of 25 players, with 13 forwards, 7 defensemen, and 3 goalies. The forwards are: Matt Boldy, Kyle Connor, Jack Eichel, Jake Guentzel, Jack Hughes, Clayton Keller, Dylan Larkin, Auston Matthews, J.T. Miller, Brock Nelson, Tage Thompson, Brady Tkachuk, Matthew Tkachuk, and Vincent Trocheck. The defensemen are: Brock Faber, Noah Hanifin, Quinn Hughes, Seth Jones, Charlie McAvoy, Jake Sanderson, Jaccob Slavin, and Zach Werenski. The goalies are: Connor Hellebuyck, Jake Oettinger, and Jeremy Swayman.
The roster includes a mix of veteran players and new additions, with Keller and Thompson being the only two players who did not participate in the 4 Nations tournament. Guerin emphasized that the decision to leave out certain players, such as Chris Kreider and Adam Fox, was not based on a single play or performance. “If you think we made a decision on one play, then you must not think we’re very smart,” Guerin said. “I’m going to keep those conversations private. Our decision was made, and we’re moving forward.”
Notable Omissions
Some notable players who were left off the roster include Jason Robertson, who leads U.S. players in points this season, and elite goal scorers Cole Caufield and Alex DeBrincat. Guerin stated that size was not a major factor in the decision-making process, saying “it doesn’t help if you’re big and you stink.” Instead, the team prioritized experience and players who could fill specific roles.
Guerin and his management staff, along with coach Mike Sullivan, emphasized the importance of building a well-rounded team with players who can play both sides of the puck. Jones, in particular, was praised for his shutdown prowess and ability to skate extremely well. “He’s a big strong kid that skates extremely well,” Sullivan said. “He has the ability to play on both side of the puck.”
The U.S. team is set to face Latvia in their first game on February 12. With a strong roster and a focus on chemistry and teamwork, the team is looking to make a deep run in the Olympics.
