As the world gears up for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, excitement builds around the return of NHL players to the ice hockey tournament after a 12-year absence. With Canada and the United States favorited to compete for gold, key matchups and potential surprises from unsung heroes are on the horizon. Fans are eager to watch the schedule unfold, highlighted by anticipated games on February 7. The Olympics promise to showcase both established stars and dark horse contenders, while a focus on NHL talent raises questions about the composition and competitiveness of each national team. As players express their excitement for the chance to represent their countries in Italy, analysts highlight important storylines and make predictions about the podium finishes.