Tage Thompson and Clayton Keller played crucial roles in helping the United States secure their first world hockey championship victory since 1933. Seth Jones was instrumental in the Florida Panthers’ back-to-back Stanley Cup campaigns.
These standout performances earned them spots on the U.S. team roster for the upcoming Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. They were the only three additions from the 4 Nations Face-Off event held earlier last year.
USA Hockey revealed its team lineup on Friday during the “Today” show, with the majority of the squad comprising players who participated in the NHL-organized international tournament in February. The team reached the final but ultimately lost to Canada in overtime.
General manager Bill Guerin expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, highlighting the unity and chemistry that enabled the players to excel on the ice. He emphasized the importance of teamwork and cohesion in their success.
Notably absent from the roster were forward Chris Kreider and former New York Rangers player Adam Fox, the 2021 Norris Trophy recipient. Guerin dismissed any speculation that Fox’s omission was linked to a particular play, emphasizing that the decision was based on broader team considerations.
Clayton Keller, the Utah Mammoth’s captain and leading scorer, served as captain at the world championship. Tage Thompson, a Buffalo Sabres player, showcased his scoring prowess, impressing with his size, speed, and versatility.
While Canada opted for a roster heavily influenced by the 4 Nations tournament, the U.S. made minimal changes, retaining their three goaltenders: Connor Hellebuyck, Jake Oettinger, and Jeremy Swayman.
Despite leaving out top performers like Jason Robertson, Cole Caufield, and Alex DeBrincat, Guerin emphasized the importance of building a well-rounded team with players suited to specific roles. Experience and familiarity with the coaching staff were key factors in the selection process.
Seth Jones stood out for his defensive prowess, earning a place on the Olympic roster due to his exceptional performance in the playoffs last season.
The U.S. Olympic team will consist of 25 players, with 20 skaters and two goalies allowed in each game. Their first match is scheduled for February 12 against Latvia.
Finland Announces Olympic Roster
Finland unveiled its Winter Olympics roster, comprising 24 NHL players and one European-based player, defenseman Mikko Lehtonen. Lehtonen, a gold medalist from the Beijing Games, is currently playing in Zurich.
Aleksander Barkov, a two-time Stanley Cup winner, missed selection due to a knee injury, with Oliver Kapanen stepping in to fill the void. The majority of Finland’s 4 Nations squad was retained, including all three goaltenders.
Notable representatives from Dallas and Florida bolster the Finnish team, showcasing strong NHL presence despite Barkov’s absence.
Sweden’s Olympic Selection
Sweden finalized its Olympic roster, featuring goaltenders Jesper Wallstedt, Filip Gustavsson, and Jacob Markstrom. Coach Sam Hallam introduced some changes from the 4 Nations event, welcoming new additions like Gabriel Landeskog and Philip Broberg.
Victor Hedman, initially named to the roster, is on the injured list but expected to return before the Olympic break. The team includes experienced players alongside fresh faces, aiming for a strong showing in Milan.