Can you believe the 2026 Winter Olympics are fast-approaching, Vegas Golden Knights fans? It's almost that time when Germany, Norway, or another European country snags the most medals, leaving countries like the United States and Canada in the dust. Oh well, I guess America can't be the best at everything. At least the Olympians still have their McDonald's.
But in all seriousness, it's a time when we can crank our civil pride to full blast, celebrating our beautiful nation. It looks like it's time to tell everyone what a great nation the United States is. Gotta annoy the northern neighbors, you know?
Still, this year's Olympics will be different. This time, NHL players will be involved, marking the first time in 12 years that the league is sending its best players. It's exciting for everyone, specifically those who want to see Jack Eichel, Leon Draisaitl, Connor McDavid, or Auston Matthews participate. Finally, Gary Bettman gets a "W" for marketing the game properly.
Speaking of Eichel, the main focus will be on him, Mitch Marner, and Mark Stone. How will the main Golden Knights stars do in the 2026 Winter Olympics? That's a good question to consider.
But what's even better is considering the forgotten Golden Knights in the conversation. After all, you can't just focus on Eichel, Marner, and Stone. These three names deserve some love and would make the 2026 Olympics a fun watch. Time to bundle up because this list's going to be cold!
1.) Tomas Hertl
I think this one's forgotten based on Americans and Canadians not thinking too much about the Czech Republic. I mean, it's not even the biggest European name for hockey when you think about it. That's why Hertl's forgotten in the whole Olympic discussion.
But the reality is that he shouldn't be forgotten. Last season, he scored 32 goals and 29 assists with a franchise-record 14 goals coming on the power play. Those numbers should be enough to land him a spot on the Czech Republic's a trip to Milan come February.
2.) Noah Hanifin
Hanifin hasn't seen much ice time to start the 2025-26 season, only playing one game. However, he can bank on his 2024-25 campaign to land a spot on the U.S. Men's Hockey team. Last season, he scored 10 goals and 29 assists with the Golden Knights, making him one of the most treasured defensemen around.
Besides, doesn't Jack Eichel need his Boston buddy? Mitch Marner's destined to play for Team Canada, so why not give Eichel some Golden Knights company on the U.S. roster?
3.) Shea Theodore
While Theodore has a ways to go from his career-high 50 assists from last season, the defenseman should make the Canadian Olympic roster. The Original Misfit has done well for him in generating scoring opportunities for his teammates, becoming one of the most underrated blue liners today.
He might be off to a slow start with only four assists, expect those numbers to pick up during the season. After all, a player's campaign isn't defined by a mere 10 games.