The 2026 Winter Olympics are officially underway in Milan and Cortina, and for the first time since 2014, NHL players are back in the Olympic men’s hockey tournament. That alone is enough to get hockey fans buzzing-but for Winnipeg Jets fans, there’s even more reason to tune in.
Despite a rough NHL season that’s left the Jets near the bottom of the standings, four of their top talents are suiting up for their countries in pursuit of Olympic gold: Josh Morrissey for Canada, Kyle Connor and Connor Hellebuyck for the United States, and Nino Niederreiter for Switzerland.
Let’s break down what each of these players brings to their national squads, and when you can catch them in action.
Josh Morrissey: Canada’s Two-Way Anchor
Josh Morrissey is no stranger to high-pressure hockey, but this one’s different. The Jets’ top-pairing defenseman is making his Olympic debut on a stacked Team Canada roster that’s loaded with skill and experience. Morrissey’s game is built for this kind of stage-he’s a smooth-skating, intelligent blueliner who can shut down top forwards and chip in offensively when needed.
This season, he’s posted 10 goals and 32 assists in 56 games, continuing to be a bright spot for Winnipeg. Over his 11-year NHL career-all with the Jets-he’s racked up 415 points in 718 games.
And while he suited up for Canada at last year’s 4 Nations Face-Off, illness kept him out of the final. Now, he’s healthy, ready, and clearly cherishing the moment.
“As a hockey player, you grow up dreaming of playing in the NHL,” Morrissey said. “But the Olympics?
That always felt like a long shot. To actually be here, representing Canada-it’s a dream come true.”
Canada’s group-stage schedule kicks off against Czechia on Feb. 12 (9:40 a.m. CST), followed by a showdown with Switzerland on Feb. 13 (2:10 p.m.), and a final group game against France on Feb. 15 (9:40 a.m.). With Morrissey patrolling the blue line, Canada’s defense looks as solid as ever.
Kyle Connor & Connor Hellebuyck: Team USA’s Dynamic Duo
Two Jets, one mission: bring Olympic gold back to the U.S. Kyle Connor and Connor Hellebuyck are both Michigan natives, longtime Jets, and now first-time Olympians. They played together at last year’s 4 Nations Face-Off, and they’re back for more-this time on the sport’s biggest international stage.
Connor has been electric this season, tallying 25 goals and 39 assists for 64 points. That puts him second on the Jets behind Mark Scheifele, who, in a surprising twist, was left off Team Canada’s roster. Connor’s blend of speed, skill, and finishing touch makes him a key weapon for the Americans.
“Can’t wait for the experience,” Connor said. “We’ve got a little revenge in us after 4 Nations.
It’s not just about Canada-there are a lot of strong teams here. But wearing the U.S. sweater?
That’s something special. There’s a rich history behind it, and it means a lot.”
Then there’s Hellebuyck-last year’s Hart and Vezina Trophy winner, and the likely starter for Team USA. His numbers this season (13-16-7, 2.79 GAA, .900 save percentage) don’t fully reflect his impact, especially behind a struggling Jets squad.
But make no mistake-when he’s locked in, Hellebuyck is one of the best goaltenders in the world. And in a short tournament like the Olympics, elite goaltending can be the great equalizer.
Team USA opens against Latvia on Feb. 12 (2:10 p.m. CST), then faces Denmark on Feb. 14 (2:10 p.m.), and wraps up group play against Germany on Feb. 15 (2:10 p.m.). With Connor leading the attack and Hellebuyck holding down the crease, the U.S. has legitimate medal aspirations.
Nino Niederreiter: Veteran Presence for Switzerland
Nino Niederreiter has done just about everything in his career-over 1,000 NHL games, 499 points, and countless international appearances for Switzerland. But even for a seasoned pro like him, the Olympics still hit different.
Selected as one of the first six players named to Switzerland’s roster last June, Niederreiter also had the honor of being a flag bearer at the opening ceremony. He’s earned it. This season, he’s chipped in eight goals and 11 assists for the Jets, but it’s his leadership and experience that make him a cornerstone for the Swiss national team.
“Super excited about it,” Niederreiter said. “It’s a huge honor to play for your country. We’ve got a good team, and I’m looking forward to a strong tournament.”
Switzerland shares Group A with Canada, Czechia, and France. They open against France on Feb. 12 (5:10 a.m.
CST), face Canada on Feb. 13 (2:10 p.m.), and close out the group stage against Czechia on Feb. 15 (5:10 a.m.). If Niederreiter and the Swiss can find their rhythm early, they could be a dark horse to watch.
Olympic Format & Key Dates
Here’s how the tournament shakes out: the three group winners and the best second-place team automatically advance to the quarterfinals. The remaining eight teams enter a qualification round on Feb. 17 to fight for the last four spots.
Quarterfinals go down Feb. 18, followed by the semifinals on Feb. 20.
The bronze medal game is set for Feb. 21 at 1:40 p.m. CST, and the gold medal game will be played bright and early on Feb. 22 at 7:10 a.m.
CST.
So, set your alarms, grab a strong espresso (this is Italy, after all), and settle in. Whether you're cheering for Canada, the U.S., Switzerland-or just rooting for good hockey-you’ll see some of the Jets’ best chasing Olympic glory on the world’s biggest stage.