As the NHL hits pause for the 2026 Winter Olympics, the Edmonton Oilers find themselves at the heart of the international hockey spotlight - even without playing a single regular-season game this week. With several key players either chasing Olympic gold or taking advantage of a much-needed break, the next two weeks could shape how the Oilers finish what’s already been a tightly contested season.
McDavid’s Olympic Moment Has Finally Arrived
After years of waiting - and two Olympic cycles lost to NHL withdrawal and a global pandemic - Connor McDavid is finally wearing the red and white of Team Canada on the world’s biggest stage. And make no mistake, he’s not just there to participate. He’s there to win.
McDavid entered the Olympic break leading the NHL in points, and now he steps into a Canadian lineup that reads like an All-Star team. He’s expected to center the top line and quarterback the power play, potentially flanked by legends like Sidney Crosby or high-octane talents like Nathan MacKinnon. That kind of firepower is the stuff of hockey dreams, and McDavid is right at the center of it - literally and figuratively.
This isn’t just a personal milestone for McDavid. It’s a chance to cement his legacy.
He’s already got the Hart, the Art Ross, the Ted Lindsay - but Olympic gold is the one piece of hardware that’s eluded him. Now, he finally gets his shot.
The Snubs: Bouchard, Hyman, and Ekholm Left Watching
While McDavid chases gold in Italy, several of his teammates are watching from home - and not by choice.
Evan Bouchard and Zach Hyman were both left off Team Canada’s roster, despite putting up impressive numbers this season. Bouchard, in particular, had a strong case.
His offensive production from the blue line ranks among the best in the league, but questions about his defensive consistency may have tipped the scales against him. It’s a tough pill to swallow for a player who’s been a key part of Edmonton’s attack all year.
Mattias Ekholm, meanwhile, was left off Team Sweden’s roster - and he didn’t hide his disappointment. The veteran blueliner called it likely his “last shot” at Olympic play, as Sweden opted to go with younger options, including former Oiler Philip Broberg.
But while the snubs sting, there’s a silver lining for the Oilers: rest.
Rested and Ready: A Hidden Advantage for Edmonton
With Bouchard, Hyman, Ekholm, Darnell Nurse, and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins all staying home, the Oilers get a rare mid-season reset for some of their most important players. In a league where bumps and bruises add up fast, two weeks off can be a game-changer - especially with a playoff push looming.
This isn’t just about healing; it’s about recharging. Edmonton’s depth players now have time to reset, refocus, and prepare for what could be a sprint to the top of the Pacific Division.
Draisaitl Carries Germany’s Hopes
On the international side, Leon Draisaitl is once again the face of German hockey - and he’s embracing the challenge.
Draisaitl leads a Team Germany squad that’s looking to punch above its weight, and he’s not going it alone. Oilers rookie Josh Samanski, fresh off his NHL debut last month, has earned a spot alongside him. For Samanski, this is more than a learning experience - it’s a chance to play meaningful minutes in high-stakes games, with one of the best players in the world by his side.
Germany’s upcoming matchup against Team USA on Sunday, Feb. 15 will be a major test. For Draisaitl and company, it’s a chance to prove they belong in the conversation with the world’s best.
Eyes on the Pacific Division
Back in North America, the Oilers are locked in a dogfight for the top of the Pacific Division, trailing only the Vegas Golden Knights. Every point will matter down the stretch, and the health of their Olympic-bound stars - especially McDavid and Draisaitl - will be critical.
Oilers fans will be watching the Olympic games with pride, but also with fingers crossed. The hope is simple: bring back the gold, but more importantly, bring back the stars healthy.
Because once the Olympic flame goes out, the real race begins - and Edmonton has its sights set on more than just division banners.