Seven members of the Dallas Stars, including Jake Oettinger, the Finntastic Four, Thomas Harley, and Radek Faksa, are preparing to represent their nations at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milan Cortina. These Dallas Stars Olympic players will showcase their talents on an international stage starting February 11, with hockey action airing across NBC, CNBC, USA Network, and streaming on Peacock and NBC Sports platforms.
Opening of Men’s Hockey and Broadcast Details
The men’s hockey tournament will begin on Wednesday, February 11, featuring a game between Slovakia and Finland at 9:40 a.m. CT. Coverage will continue through February 22, offering fans extensive visibility of Olympic ice hockey. Detailed TV schedules and all hockey match information, including the Dallas Stars’ round robin games, will be accessible through NBC’s Olympic schedule.
Jake Oettinger Set for First Olympic Appearance with Team USA
Jake Oettinger, the 27-year-old goaltender from Minnesota, will represent Team USA at the Winter Games for the first time. Although this marks his Olympic debut, Oettinger has previously competed internationally, including at the 2018 World Junior Championship and the recent Four Nations Face-Off. His inclusion marks a significant milestone in his career as he prepares to defend the net for the United States.
The Finntastic Four Lead Team Finland’s Olympic Charge
Miro Heiskanen, Roope Hintz, Esa Lindell, and Mikko Rantanen—collectively known as the Finntastic Four—will don the Finnish colors in Italy. Heiskanen, chosen among the first six players for Finland in June, is returning for his second Olympics after scoring a goal over five games at PyeongChang in 2018. Hintz, a native of Nokia, carries experience from the Four Nations Face-Off and earned gold at the 2016 World Juniors. Lindell, 31, played a crucial role in Finland’s 2014 World Junior Championship gold and the 2022 World Championship victory. Rantanen, making his Olympic debut, will serve as alternate captain and brings a history of winning gold at the 2016 World Juniors and silver at the 2016 World Championship.
Thomas Harley to Represent Canada with Dual Citizenship
Thomas Harley, a 24-year-old defenseman born in Syracuse, New York, has opted to compete for Team Canada due to his Canadian parentage, granting him dual citizenship. Harley’s international resume includes participation in the 2019 Under-18 World Championship, the 2021 World Junior Championship where he won silver, and last season’s Four Nations Face-Off. His role on the Canadian team adds valuable depth and experience to the defense.
Radek Faksa to Join Czech Republic’s Olympic Squad
Radek Faksa will represent the Czech Republic in Milan. The 31-year-old forward has extensive international experience, having played at three World Championships (2016, 2018, 2019), three World Junior Championships (2012-2014), and one Under-18 World Championship in 2011. Faksa also represented Czechia at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, bringing a seasoned presence to his national team’s Olympic campaign.
Significance and Outlook for Dallas Stars Olympic Players
The participation of these seven Dallas Stars Olympic players highlights the team’s global influence and the individual growth of its athletes. Their performances at the Winter Olympics will not only elevate their personal careers but also spotlight the Stars organization on an international platform. As NHL players, they bring a high level of competition and skill that can energize their respective national squads. Fans and analysts alike will closely watch how these players perform, anticipating that their Olympic experience will enhance the competitive edge of the Dallas Stars upon their return.
