Projecting the United States’ Roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics

The United States could have one of the strongest rosters in the tournament – one that would surely improve upon the fourth-place finish at the NHL-infused 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi. Remember way back then – when T.J. Oshie became the undisputed shootout king?

The 2026 roster, though, could be one for the ages. Here’s how the lineup could shape up.

Other 2026 Olympic Roster Projections:

Projected Roster for the United States

As a reminder, the Winter Olympics will not be held until Feb. 2026. There are still two and a half NHL seasons between now and then. Players will certainly progress and regress during that time. So with that in mind, here’s a glimpse into the future – an outstanding United States hockey team.

None of these players suited up for the United States during the 2014 Winter Olympics – the last that featured NHL participation. That said, there is some Olympic experience here.

Matty Beniers and Jake Sanderson both earned a spot on the 2022 United States roster as college players. The former registered a goal and an assist in four games, while the latter tallied an assist in his lone contest of the tournament.

And though they lack Olympic experience, the rest of the roster should not be discounted.

A top line of Auston Matthews and the Tkachuk Brothers would give the United States a well-rounded offensive attack – they could beat just about anyone with finesse, skill, or physicality. The second line could be just as dangerous, with 50-goal scorer Jason Robertson and elite playmaker Jack Hughes together with Jack Eichel.

There’s good depth throughout the forward lines. Tage Thompson will be 27 when the next Olympics roll around and already has a 47-goal campaign under his belt. In addition, it’s entirely possible Cole Caufield is playing higher in the lineup two years from now.

On defense, the top four might be the best in the world. Charlie…