Slafkovský Steps Up, Canadiens Reflect During Olympic Break
Juraj Slafkovský continues to show he’s not just the future of the Montreal Canadiens-he’s already playing like a cornerstone. At just 21 years old, the young winger is putting together a tournament performance that’s turning heads well beyond Montreal. Even veteran defenseman Mike Matheson can’t help but marvel: “It’s sometimes hard to believe he’s only 21.”
That praise comes after Slafkovský helped Slovakia clinch Group B in dramatic fashion. In a game against Sweden, Slovakia didn’t need a win-they needed a goal.
And with seconds left, Slafkovský delivered a clutch setup that sealed the goal-differential tiebreaker. It was a moment that showcased not just his skill, but his poise under pressure.
He’s been the engine behind Slovakia’s surprising run, elevating the team with a mix of size, vision, and offensive creativity. But as the tournament gets tougher, the question becomes whether Slovakia has the depth to keep up. Slafkovský can carry a lot, but even he’ll need some help if Slovakia wants to keep punching above its weight.
Back in Montreal, the Olympic break has given players a chance to reset-and reflect. For Mike Matheson, it’s a mix of emotions.
The pause in NHL action means more time with his family, but there’s a bittersweet edge. He was in the conversation for Team Canada’s Olympic roster, and while that dream didn’t materialize, the pride in even being considered speaks volumes about his play this season.
Meanwhile, the Canadiens’ prospect pipeline is generating buzz. Max Pacioretty, who knows a thing or two about elite offensive talent, had high praise for Michael Hage: “He can do things with the puck that few players in the world are capable of.” That’s lofty company, and it’s a sign that Montreal may have another dynamic forward in the making.
Looking back over the past two decades, it’s hard to argue with the idea that Carey Price was the Canadiens’ best player of the 21st century’s opening quarter. His calm under pressure, game-stealing performances, and leadership in net defined an era. Even as his playing days wind down, his legacy in Montreal remains untouchable.
And speaking of legends, Marie-Philip Poulin added another milestone to her already remarkable résumé. Returning to the ice for Canada’s quarter-final matchup, she tied the national record with her 18th Olympic goal. It’s just another reminder of why she’s considered one of the greatest to ever wear the maple leaf.
Around the League
In Los Angeles, the Kings will have to finish the season without Kevin Fiala. A leg injury has sidelined the dynamic forward for the remainder of the year-a tough blow for a team that relies heavily on his offensive spark.
Drew Doughty, never one to shy away from a hot topic, expressed surprise at the attention surrounding Thomas Harley’s inclusion on Team Canada. The debate may rage on, but Doughty’s reaction suggests the locker room isn’t losing sleep over it.
Team France, meanwhile, is embracing the underdog role. Pierre-Edouard Bellemare put it bluntly ahead of their matchup with Canada: “Their worst player is going to be better than our top player.” But for France, this tournament isn’t just about results-it’s about earning respect on the international stage.
Latvia, on the other hand, has already earned that respect. With disciplined team play and a strong showing throughout the tournament, they’ve turned heads. The latest spark came from Dans Locmelis, who helped engineer a statement upset over Germany.
From rising stars to Olympic legends, and from injury setbacks to international upsets, the hockey world is buzzing-and Canadiens fans have plenty to keep an eye on, both at home and abroad.