Connor McDavid is stepping into a role that many have anticipated for years: Captain Canada at the Olympics. With Sidney Crosby sidelined due to an injury, McDavid will don the ‘C’ for Team Canada in their crucial semifinal clash against Finland. Supporting him are Colorado Avalanche standouts Cale Makar and Nathan MacKinnon, who continue as alternates.
Crosby, who has been a linchpin for Team Canada, first led the squad to gold at the 2014 Sochi Games and repeated the feat at both the 2016 World Cup of Hockey and the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off. His absence, due to an injury sustained against Czechia in the quarterfinals, has paved the way for McDavid to take the leadership mantle.
Canadian coach Jon Cooper shared insights on the transition: “Everybody was looking to Sid in that tournament. Guys like Doughty and Marchand stepped up vocally.
But I’m seeing much more out of the group now, especially Connor. He’s been fabulous.”
McDavid's leadership credentials are well-established. At just 19, he was named captain of the Edmonton Oilers, the youngest in NHL history, joining a legacy that includes legends like Wayne Gretzky and Mark Messier. He’s served as an alternate captain for Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Off and throughout the current tournament in Milan.
Making his Olympic debut, McDavid leads the tournament with 11 points, including two goals and nine assists over four games. His golden goal at the 4 Nations Face-Off against the U.S. remains a highlight.
Anchoring Canada’s top line, McDavid will be flanked by Macklin Celebrini and Tom Wilson. With Crosby out, Nick Suzuki steps in as the third-line center, and Seth Jarvis fills in on the wing. Jordan Binnington will start in goal, with the game set to begin at 8:40 MT.