Men’s Olympic Hockey: Team USA and Canada Finally Hit the Ice in Milan
After months of speculation, roster debates, and closed-door practices, the puck is finally about to drop for two of the biggest names in international hockey: Team USA and Team Canada. Thursday marks the long-awaited Olympic debut for both squads at the Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena - a 196-foot sheet of ice that’s about to host some of the most anticipated matchups of the tournament.
The early action on Day 1 already delivered its share of surprises. Slovakia stunned Finland with a 4-1 upset, setting the tone for a tournament where nothing feels guaranteed.
Meanwhile, Sweden had to dig deep to fend off a scrappy Italian squad, eventually pulling away for a 5-2 win. If those results are any indication, the road to gold is going to be anything but predictable.
Now, the spotlight shifts to the heavyweights.
Crosby Leads Canada Into Battle
Sidney Crosby may be in the twilight of his career, but the Pittsburgh Penguins captain still knows how to command a stage. He’ll be front and center Thursday morning as Team Canada opens its Olympic campaign against Czechia. Puck drop is set for 10:40 a.m. local time, and all eyes will be on how this Canadian roster - a mix of seasoned NHL veterans and emerging stars - gels on Olympic ice.
Canada’s depth has never really been in question. But with international play often bringing out the unexpected, the key will be chemistry and quick adjustments. Crosby’s leadership will be critical, especially in these early games, as Canada looks to build momentum and avoid the kind of early stumble that’s already tripped up Finland.
Team USA Opens Against Latvia - and a Familiar Netminder
Later in the day, Team USA takes the ice against Latvia at 3:10 p.m. While the American roster doesn’t feature any current Pittsburgh Penguins players, there’s still a Steel City connection in this one - and it’s in net for the opposition.
Latvia’s goaltending trio includes Arturs Silovs, a name Penguins fans will recognize. Silovs has built a reputation as a clutch performer in high-pressure situations.
His standout playoff run in 2024 turned heads, and he followed that up with an MVP performance during the 2025 Calder Cup campaign. Latvia hasn’t named a starter yet, but Silovs is widely expected to see significant time between the pipes.
Also in the mix is Columbus Blue Jackets netminder Elvis Merzlikins, giving Latvia a solid one-two punch in goal.
For Team USA, the challenge will be cracking that Latvian crease early. Against a goalie like Silovs - who thrives when the stakes are high - it’s all about quick starts, sustained pressure, and capitalizing on any rebounds or defensive lapses. The Americans will need their top six to show up right away, especially with a goalie capable of stealing games on the other end.
The Olympic stage is set, and the heavy hitters are about to join the fray. With the early upsets already shaking things up, both Team USA and Team Canada will be looking to make a statement in their openers. One thing’s for sure: the road to Olympic gold is officially open, and it’s going to be a wild ride.