The NHL is back in the Olympics, and the Boston Bruins are making their presence felt on the world stage.
For the first time since 2014, NHL players are suiting up for their countries at the Winter Games, and the Bruins are sending a deep and diverse group of talent to Milan. Nine players from the organization are heading to the Olympics, representing five different nations-an impressive international showing that underscores just how global Boston’s roster has become.
Bruins Going Global: 2026 Olympic Selections
Of the nine Bruins selected, eight will be making their Olympic debut. The lone exception?
Forward Pavel Zacha, who was named to Czechia’s roster but will miss the tournament due to an upper-body injury. Still, the list of Bruins Olympians tells a story of rising stars, seasoned veterans, and a few players stepping into major spotlight roles for their national teams.
Here’s how the Bruins’ Olympic delegation breaks down:
- Charlie McAvoy (USA, Defenseman) - The Bruins’ top blue-liner brings his elite two-way game to Team USA. Expect McAvoy to log heavy minutes and anchor the American defense with his physicality and puck-moving skills.
- Jeremy Swayman (USA, Goaltender) - Swayman’s steady rise in Boston has earned him a shot at the Olympic crease. Whether he starts or splits time, he’s a key piece of Team USA’s goaltending puzzle.
- Hampus Lindholm (Sweden, Defenseman) - A smooth-skating, reliable presence on the back end, Lindholm gives Sweden a veteran option who can handle top-pair minutes and contribute in all situations.
- Elias Lindholm (Sweden, Forward) - Recently acquired by Boston, Lindholm adds scoring punch and playmaking vision to Sweden’s forward group. He’s a versatile weapon who can play in any role the Swedes need.
- Joonas Korpisalo (Finland, Goaltender) - The Finnish netminder gets the Olympic nod, bringing experience and athleticism to a Finland team that’s always dangerous in international play.
- Henri Jokiharju (Finland, Defenseman) - A steady, mobile defender, Jokiharju will be counted on to provide depth and reliability for the Finns.
- Dans Locmelis (Latvia, Forward) - A Bruins prospect, Locmelis is one of the younger players in the tournament. This Olympic experience is a huge development opportunity for the Latvian forward, who’s already turning heads within the organization.
- David Pastrnak (Czechia, Forward) - Not only is Pastrnak suiting up for Czechia, but he’s been named the country’s flag bearer-a massive honor and a testament to his star power. Expect Pasta to be the focal point of the Czech attack, bringing his elite scoring touch and flair to the Olympic spotlight.
- Pavel Zacha (Czechia, Forward) - Unfortunately, Zacha won’t be able to compete due to injury, a tough break for both the player and his national team.
A Look Back at Bruins Olympic History
This isn’t the Bruins’ first Olympic rodeo. The franchise has a rich history of sending players to the Games, with several making major contributions on the international stage.
- Brad Marchand finally gets his Olympic moment, suiting up for Team Canada after being passed over in 2014. At 37, he’s the oldest first-time Olympian in Milan, but his game is still sharp, and his leadership will be invaluable.
- Patrice Bergeron was a core part of Canada’s gold-medal teams in 2010 and 2014. His two-way excellence and hockey IQ made him a perfect fit for those loaded Canadian rosters.
- Tuukka Rask helped Finland secure bronze in 2014, blanking Team USA 5-0 in the medal game. That performance remains one of the high points of his international career.
- David Krejci represented Czechia in both 2010 and 2014, bringing his cerebral playmaking to the Olympic stage.
- Zdeno Chara carried the Slovakian flag in 2014, a fitting honor for the towering defenseman and longtime Bruins captain.
- P.J. Axelsson, often overlooked, played a key role in Sweden’s gold-medal run in 2006. His work ethic and defensive acumen made him a valuable piece of that championship team.
A New Chapter in Bruins Olympic Legacy
One notable wrinkle in 2026: for the first time in recent memory, the Bruins don’t have a representative on Team Canada. Despite having talented Canadian players on the roster, none cracked the final cut. It’s a reminder of just how deep and competitive Canada’s talent pool remains.
Still, the Bruins’ Olympic influence is strong. With players spread across five nations and poised to play major roles, Boston’s fingerprints will be all over the tournament. Whether it’s McAvoy quarterbacking the U.S. power play, Pastrnak lighting the lamp for Czechia, or Swayman making clutch saves in the elimination rounds, Bruins fans will have plenty to cheer for in Milan.
The last Bruin to win Olympic gold was Bergeron. Could one of the current crop follow in his footsteps?
We’re about to find out. The stage is set, the lights are bright, and the Bruins are ready to chase gold on hockey’s biggest international platform.