Jets at the Olympics: Medal Hopes and Highlights
The 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy have been a thrilling showcase of "best on best" hockey, and three Winnipeg Jets are still in the hunt for a medal. With the quarter-finals wrapping up, let's dive into how our Jets are faring on the international stage.
Nino Niederreiter - Switzerland
Nino Niederreiter had a slow start, unable to make a mark on the scoresheet during Switzerland’s first three games. As the 5th seed, Switzerland faced 12th-seeded Italy, dominating with a 51-20 shot advantage but managing just a 3-0 win, thanks to Italy's Damian Clara's 48 saves. Niederreiter had five shots but remained scoreless heading into the quarterfinals.
In a thrilling match against Finland, Switzerland jumped to a 2-0 lead in the first period, with Niederreiter finally breaking through to score. However, Finland clawed back with two late goals, forcing overtime. It was Artturi Lehkonen’s breakaway goal that ended Switzerland’s Olympic journey, leaving Niederreiter and his team just short of the semifinals.
Josh Morrissey - Canada
Josh Morrissey has been sidelined since Canada’s opening game against Czechia due to a lower body injury. Despite being a scratch for three consecutive games, Morrissey’s participation in practice suggests a return could be imminent.
Canada’s coach, Jon Cooper, reassured fans that Morrissey’s tournament isn’t over. Following Canada’s nail-biting 4-3 overtime victory against Czechia, the decision looms on whether Morrissey will rejoin the lineup. His return depends on proving full fitness, but Canada might opt for stability as they approach the final stretch.
Kyle Connor - USA
Kyle Connor started strong for Team USA but has been a healthy scratch in their last two games. USA edged past Sweden with a 2-1 overtime win, setting up a semifinal clash with Slovakia. While fans are eager to see Connor back on the ice, it seems unlikely unless there’s a lineup shakeup.
Mark Scheifele, not selected for Team Canada, empathized with Connor’s situation, highlighting their chemistry and offering support. Despite the setback, Connor remains poised to return to the Jets, potentially with a medal in tow.
Connor Hellebuyck - USA
Connor Hellebuyck has been a standout for Team USA, anchoring their defense with stellar goaltending. In the quarterfinal against Sweden, Hellebuyck stopped 28 of 29 shots, maintaining a perfect 3-0-0 record with a 0.98 GAA and a .958 SV%.
Though not overwhelmed with shots, Hellebuyck’s consistency has been key to USA's success. As the tournament progresses, he is expected to remain the starting goalie, aiming to lead USA to their first Olympic gold since 1980.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Jets continue their quest for Olympic glory. With the medal games approaching, Winnipeg fans have plenty to be excited about as their stars shine on the world stage.