Men’s Olympic Ice Hockey Returns: Finland, Sweden Open Tournament in Milan-Cortina
After a 12-year wait, the best-on-best men's Olympic ice hockey tournament is finally back. The puck drops today in Milan-Cortina, and hockey fans around the world are in for a treat. While the women’s tournament has already delivered some fireworks - including a dominant 5-0 U.S. win over a shorthanded Canadian squad just yesterday - today marks the start of the men’s competition, and the anticipation has been building for years.
Two games are on tap for Day 1, starting with a morning matchup on the East Coast between Finland and Slovakia. It’s a compelling way to open the tournament, with both teams boasting a mix of NHL talent and international experience.
Finland vs. Slovakia: A Blue Line Battle
For Finland, defenseman Henri Jokiharju is set to make his Olympic debut. He’s expected to slot in on the second defensive pair, bringing his steady two-way game to a Finnish team that prides itself on structure and discipline. Joonas Korpisalo, meanwhile, starts the tournament as Finland’s third-string goalie - a depth piece, but one with NHL experience should the need arise.
Slovakia counters with a blue line that’s no joke. Martin Fehervary, Simon Nemec, and Erik Cernak headline a defensive group that brings physicality and puck-moving ability. Add in veteran Martin Marincin, who brings plenty of international experience despite being out of the NHL, and Slovakia’s defense looks well-rounded and capable of disrupting Finland’s methodical attack.
This game is more than just an opener - it’s a tone-setter. Both teams have the pieces to make a run, and how they come out of the gate could shape the rest of their tournament.
Sweden vs. Italy: A Heavy Favorite Meets the Hosts
Later in the day, Sweden takes on host nation Italy in a matchup that, on paper, looks lopsided. Sweden enters as a heavy favorite, with a roster stacked with NHL talent and Olympic experience. But as we’ve seen in past tournaments, opening games can be tricky - especially against a host nation playing with pride and nothing to lose.
Elias Lindholm will center Sweden’s second line, flanked by Jesper Bratt and Lucas Raymond. That trio offers a dynamic blend of speed, skill, and scoring touch. Lindholm is also expected to play a key role on the penalty kill, though interestingly, he’s not skating with the power play units - a notable decision given his offensive capabilities.
Hampus Lindholm, who made the team as an injury replacement, will start the tournament in the press box as a healthy scratch. That’s a testament to Sweden’s depth on the blue line - they can afford to sit an NHL-caliber defenseman and still roll out a top-tier group.
There’s also a bit of lineup drama to monitor. William Nylander is a game-time decision, and if he’s unable to go, Filip Forsberg could be the odd man out - a surprising move considering Forsberg’s offensive pedigree.
Sweden’s lines have been in flux leading up to the tournament, so don’t be surprised if things shift before the 3:10 p.m. ET puck drop.
The Road Begins
It’s only Day 1, but the stakes are already high. For Finland and Slovakia, it’s a chance to build early momentum.
For Sweden, it’s about taking care of business and setting a championship tone. And for Italy, it’s an opportunity to play spoiler on home ice.
The men’s Olympic hockey tournament is back - and if today’s matchups are any indication, it’s going to be worth the wait.
All games are available to stream on Peacock.