Nathan MacKinnon isn’t usually the guy you picture getting wide-eyed around other players. He’s the engine of the Avalanche, a perennial Hart Trophy candidate, and arguably the best player in the NHL today. But even the elite can have moments where the magnitude of the moment hits them-and that’s exactly what happened this week at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
MacKinnon is suiting up for Team Canada, and the talent around him is so stacked, it’s almost comical. We’re talking about a lineup that reads like an All-Decade Team. And for MacKinnon, the chance to hit the ice alongside some of the biggest names in the sport-even guys he’s known for years-was enough to make him pause and take it all in.
He called it a “pinch yourself” kind of experience. And honestly, who could blame him?
This isn’t just about sharing a locker room with stars. It’s about sharing the ice with players who’ve helped define an era of hockey-many of whom MacKinnon grew up watching or idolizing.
One of those players is, of course, Sidney Crosby. Their relationship has been well-documented over the years-two Nova Scotians who’ve trained together, pushed each other, and now finally get to wear the same jersey in a meaningful international tournament.
There was a time when Crosby-to-Colorado rumors had Avalanche fans dreaming big, but those whispers were quickly shut down. Still, MacKinnon doesn’t need Crosby in Denver to experience the thrill of playing alongside his childhood friend. Now, they’re chasing Olympic gold together.
At Team Canada’s first practice in Italy, the center depth alone was enough to turn heads. Connor McDavid slotted in on the top line, followed by MacKinnon, Crosby, and Bo Horvat.
That’s four legitimate top-line centers on one roster. And while we don’t know how the final lines will shake out, the idea of MacKinnon or Crosby shifting to the wing just to get them on the same line isn’t far-fetched-and it’s downright exciting.
Imagine MacKinnon flying down the wing with McDavid threading passes through traffic. Or Crosby playing the setup man with MacKinnon unloading that lethal shot of his. However the coaching staff decides to deploy them, there’s no wrong answer when the options are this good.
And that’s the bigger picture here-this roster is loaded. Top to bottom, it’s the kind of team that makes you do a double take.
The kind of team where even the fourth line could dominate most international squads. It would take a monumental effort-or a serious upset-for Canada to leave this tournament without gold.
But beyond the expectations and the depth charts, there’s something special about seeing a player like MacKinnon-a guy who’s accomplished so much-still feel the awe of the moment. It’s a reminder of what the Olympics mean, even to the game’s best.
It’s not just another tournament. It’s a chance to represent your country, to play with the players you respect most, and to chase a legacy that goes beyond the NHL.
And MacKinnon’s not the only one soaking it all in. Fans lucky enough to be in the building will get a once-in-a-lifetime look at some of the greatest players of this generation sharing the ice. Whether it’s their first time seeing these stars live or their only time, it’s going to be something to remember.
For now, all eyes are on Team Canada-and for good reason. When a roster this talented comes together, the hockey world watches. And if MacKinnon’s reaction is any indication, we’re all in for something special.