The Olympic hockey tournaments are here, and the excitement is palpable! With the NHL calendar on pause, all eyes turn to Milan for an action-packed 19 days of international competition. But amidst the thrill, a norovirus outbreak has already caused a game postponement, and the schedule is about to get wild.
Here are five must-watch Olympic hockey games that will have fans on the edge of their seats:
Canada vs. Finland (Women's): Originally scheduled as the opening game, this clash between the world's second and third-ranked teams has been moved to February 12th due to Finland's norovirus woes. With 13 players affected, the Finns face a challenging recovery, and the world hopes for their swift return to health. The US, fresh off a win over Czechia, awaits the Finns on February 6th.
USA vs. Germany (Men's): The top-ranked Americans, chasing their first Olympic gold since the iconic 1980 Miracle on Ice, face a group of underdogs. Latvia, Denmark, and Germany will put up a fight, but the real test for Team USA will be against Germany's star Leon Draisaitl and his teammates. A win here could secure a favorable quarterfinal matchup.
Canada vs. Czechia (Men's): Captain Sidney Crosby and his Canadian squad face a tricky opponent in their opening game. The Czechs are no pushovers, and this match could be Canada's toughest in the prelims. All eyes will be on the goalkeeping situation, as Jordan Binnington's NHL struggles this season raise questions about his Olympic starting role.
Finland vs. Sweden (Men's): Early risers will be treated to a thrilling rivalry match between these neighboring countries. Having faced each other in the 4 Nations Face-Off last year, this game promises drama and a battle for group supremacy.
USA vs. Canada (Women's): The women's tournament gets it right by not holding back the top teams in the early rounds, unlike the men's. The Americans, high on confidence after four straight wins against Canada in the Rivalry Series, will face their arch-rivals in a prelim game that could be a preview of the gold-medal match. Grab your snacks, because this one is not to be missed!
But wait, there's more! The Olympic hockey schedule is packed with thrilling matchups:
- Women's quarterfinals: February 13th and 14th
- Women's semifinals: February 16th
- Women's medal games: February 19th
- Men's quarterfinals: February 18th
- Men's semifinals: February 20th
- Men's medal games: February 21st and 22nd
The Athletic's team in Italy, led by hockey experts Hailey Salvian, Michael Russo, Pierre LeBrun, Arpon Basu, and Mark Lazerus, is ready to bring you every thrilling moment. From Team USA's dominant win over Czechia to Sweden's victory over Germany and Italy's historic triumph over France, the women's tournament is already delivering.
And while the Olympic action unfolds, the NHL trade freeze has sparked fireworks. The Rangers' trade of star forward Artemi Panarin to the Kings for Liam Greentree and a conditional pick has raised eyebrows. The Breadman's legacy in New York, the Kings' bold move, and his fit in LA are all hot topics. Meanwhile, the Blues' trade of Nick Bjugstad to the Devils and the Oilers' waiver of Calvin Pickard also make headlines.
As the Olympic hockey tournaments heat up, the NHL trade deadline looms. The Athletic's hockey page keeps you updated on roster changes, player polls, and the latest news. Don't miss a moment of this thrilling hockey season!
