Six players from the Anaheim Ducks will take part in the men’s hockey competition at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina, marking the return of NHL players to the Olympic ice after a 12-year absence. This event features athletes representing a range of countries, including the United States, Czechia, Sweden, Finland, and the host nation Italy.
The men’s tournament officially began on February 11, 2026, with opening matches featuring Finland versus Slovakia and Sweden against Italy. The United States squad, which includes Anaheim Ducks prospect Jackson Lacombe, started their campaign on February 12 against Latvia, highlighting the international scope of the event.
Details on Anaheim Ducks Participants and Their National Teams
Several Ducks players will be key contributors for their national teams over the course of the Olympic hockey tournament. Jackson Lacombe is part of Team USA, with games scheduled against Latvia on February 12, Denmark on February 14, and Germany on February 15.
Two other Ducks, Lukas Dostal and Radko Gudas, are competing for Team Czechia. Their schedule includes matches against Canada on February 12, France on February 13, and Switzerland on February 15.
Leo Carlsson is representing Sweden, competing against Italy on February 11, Finland on February 13, and Slovakia on February 14. Mikael Granlund plays for Team Finland, facing Slovakia on February 11, Sweden on February 13, and Italy on February 14. Lastly, Damian Clara is part of Team Italy, with Italy playing Sweden on February 11, Slovakia on February 13, and Finland on February 14.
Structure of the Men’s Olympic Hockey Competition
The tournament features 12 teams divided into three groups. Each team will participate in a round-robin format within their group, playing three games. The top teams from each group, along with the best second-place team, will advance directly to the quarterfinals. The remaining eight teams will compete in a qualification playoff to secure the last four quarterfinal spots.
The groups are organized as follows:
- Group A: Canada, Czechia, France, Switzerland
- Group B: Finland, Italy, Slovakia, Sweden
- Group C: Denmark, Germany, Latvia, United States
Significance of NHL Players Returning and Olympic Hockey Outlook
The 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics marks the first time since 2014 that NHL players will participate, reintroducing professional-level talent to the global stage. This return is expected to elevate the level of competition and engagement for hockey fans worldwide. The tournament will culminate with the gold medal game scheduled for February 22, promising an intense conclusion to a highly anticipated event.
With Anaheim Ducks players representing multiple countries, their performances will be closely watched both by NHL followers and Olympic enthusiasts. The inclusion of these athletes highlights the team’s growing international presence and the Olympics‘ role in bringing together top-tier hockey talent.
