As Olympic hockey returns to the global stage with NHL talent back in the mix for the first time since 2014, the Toronto Maple Leafs are sending a trio of key contributors to represent their countries at the Milano-Cortina Games. Auston Matthews, William Nylander, and Oliver Ekman-Larsson won’t just be participating-they’re expected to play pivotal roles for their respective national teams.
Matthews Leads the Charge for Team USA
Let’s start with the face of the Leafs franchise. Auston Matthews will once again wear the “C” for Team USA, continuing the leadership role he held during the recent 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, where the Americans pushed powerhouse Canada to the brink before falling in overtime.
Matthews had multiple chances to seal that game late, but it was Connor McDavid who ultimately delivered the dagger in OT. Still, Matthews’ performance-creating chances, driving play, and anchoring the offense-left no doubt about his importance to the American roster.
For the Olympics, Matthews is expected to center the second line, flanked by Clayton Keller and Jake Guentzel. That trio brings a mix of speed, creativity, and finishing ability that could give opposing defenses headaches. Matthews will also feature on the top power play unit, where his quick release and net-front presence make him a constant threat.
The U.S. lands in Group C, which means no early showdown with Canada. But if both teams live up to expectations, a playoff clash could be on the horizon-and you can bet Matthews will be ready for another shot at redemption.
Team USA opens its tournament against Latvia on February 12, followed by matchups with Denmark on February 14 and Germany-led by NHL superstar Leon Draisaitl-on February 15. It’s a group the Americans should handle, but nothing is guaranteed on Olympic ice.
Nylander and Ekman-Larsson Suit Up for Sweden
On the other side of the bracket, William Nylander and Oliver Ekman-Larsson will be suiting up for Team Sweden, a squad with serious medal aspirations. Sweden headlines Group B and enters the tournament as one of the top contenders behind Canada and the U.S.
Nylander, despite missing 17 games this season, leads the Leafs in scoring with 52 points in 40 games-a testament to how dominant he’s been when healthy. For Sweden, he’ll slot in on the top line at right wing, skating alongside Mika Zibanejad and Jesper Bratt. That line has the potential to be one of the tournament’s most dynamic, and Nylander’s ability to create space and finish plays will be a major asset.
He’ll also see time on Sweden’s first power play unit, where his vision and puck control should be a perfect fit for a system that thrives on precision and movement.
Ekman-Larsson, meanwhile, has been Toronto’s top defenseman this season, and he’ll carry that form into the Olympics. He’s expected to anchor Sweden’s third defensive pairing alongside Rasmus Andersson, providing offensive punch from the back end. But don’t be surprised if he rotates into the top four, especially on the right side, where he could spell Erik Karlsson in certain situations.
Sweden kicks off its group stage against Italy on February 11, then takes on rival Finland on February 13 before wrapping up against Slovakia on February 14. That Finland game, in particular, could be a tone-setter for the Swedes.
Leafs Well Represented on the World Stage
With Matthews, Nylander, and Ekman-Larsson all expected to play top-line or top-pairing minutes-and logging key special teams roles-the Maple Leafs will have a strong presence throughout the Olympic tournament. These aren’t just roster fillers; they’re core pieces for their national teams.
Given the firepower and depth on both Team USA and Sweden, anything short of a medal round appearance would be a shock. And if either squad ends up on the podium-or even atop it-it’s a safe bet that a Leaf played a major role in getting them there.
This Olympic tournament is shaping up to be a showcase of elite NHL talent, and for Leafs fans, it’s a chance to watch three of their best go to work on the biggest international stage.