Team Canada has arrived in Milan ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics, bringing with them not only the players but also their families and close friends, who are helping the athletes adjust to their new surroundings. Lauren Kyle, wife of Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid, is providing fans with a behind-the-scenes look at life in Milan as the team gets ready for their opening matches, highlighting their Olympic preparation.
Supporting Role: Lauren Kyle’s Milan Experiences with Fellow Oilers Wives
Kyle shared updates on Instagram that showcase her arrival in Milan and the atmosphere of the city. One of her posts featured a wardrobe full of red clothing items, including a puffer jacket, heels, and designer bags, accompanied by a Canadian flag and heart emoji symbolizing support for Team Canada. The jacket she wore was created by her own lifestyle brand, Sports Club Atelier, which combines hockey culture with fashion for patriotic fans.
She also posted a mirror selfie with Celeste Desjardins, wife of Edmonton Oilers forward Leon Draisaitl. Both wore matching white bathrobes, with the caption “she made it,” highlighting their bond and mutual encouragement, despite their husbands representing different countries in the Games.
Connor McDavid Steps Onto the Ice with Team Canada’s First Practice
Connor McDavid participated in the first Team Canada practice in Milan, skating alongside San Jose Sharks forward Macklin Celebrini and Washington Capitals forward Tom Wilson on a top line. As an alternate captain, McDavid joins Sidney Crosby in leadership for the team’s Olympic campaign, which begins with a game against Czechia on February 12, followed by matches versus Switzerland and France.
Reflecting on his initial impressions of Milan, McDavid told reporters,
“It has been great. Really cool here, just get the village for the first time, really cool, just to see it. Run, all the athletes that are special here.”
He also addressed adjusting to jet lag, saying,
“No secret formula. Nothing? I’ll tell me, ‘We’ll get you down,’ but not doing well. Just happy to be here and get going.”
Olympic Stakes and Familiar Rivalries on the Horizon
Last year, McDavid played for Canada during the 4 Nations Faceoff, scoring the overtime goal in the final that secured a 3-2 victory over the United States. At the upcoming Winter Olympics, the Canadian team may face some of the same competition, as Auston Matthews is expected to captain Team USA, posing a notable challenge should both teams advance beyond the preliminary rounds.
As the tournament approaches, the role of families like Kyle and Desjardins in providing off-ice support is significant. Their presence helps athletes maintain focus amid the pressures of Olympic competition, while also showcasing the personal side of this intense international event.
Connor McDavid, big melatonin guy for long flights. pic.twitter.com/KmkQcsDe4x
— Oilersnation.com, Oily Since ‘07 (@OilersNation) February 8, 2026
