Four Colorado Avalanche players who participated in the 2026 Winter Olympics gold medal game arrived back in Denver on Tuesday morning, according to an internal team source. Brock Nelson, Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, and Devon Toews did not take part in the Avalanche’s practice session Tuesday but are slated to travel with the team to Salt Lake City for their upcoming game against the Utah Mammoth on Wednesday. Coach Jared Bednar mentioned that some players, likely including those Olympians, planned to remain in Denver overnight and join the team on the morning flight to Utah, though he did not clarify their status for the game against Utah.
Nelson Chooses Family Time Over White House Visit
Brock Nelson was invited to join his United States teammates at the White House for a celebration following their dramatic 2-1 overtime victory against Canada in the Olympic final held in Milan. After the win, President Donald Trump extended the invitation during a phone call where he humorously acknowledged the obligation to invite the U.S. women’s hockey team as well. FBI Director Kash Patel also joined the team in the locker room to share in their victory. However, Nelson opted to forgo the trip to Washington, D.C., choosing instead to return to Denver with his family and prepare for the Avalanche’s next chapter on the road.
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This decision highlights Nelson’s preference to focus on his team commitments and personal time post-Olympics, rather than engage in the celebratory political event.
Context Around the White House Invitation and Public Reaction
The phone call and subsequent White House invitation sparked a significant reaction nationwide, attracting criticism regarding the optics and politics surrounding the celebration. The involvement of FBI Director Kash Patel in the locker room festivities further fueled public discussion. Nelson’s choice not to attend the White House event distances him personally from these controversies, placing focus on his role as an athlete and a teammate.
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Avalanche Prepares for Upcoming Game with New Additions
While Nelson and several Olympians stayed behind on Tuesday night, Avalanche coach Jared Bednar confirmed that new trade acquisition defenseman Brett Kulak will join the team on the road and is expected to play in the game against the Utah Mammoth. Kulak was acquired recently in a trade involving Samuel Girard and a second-round draft pick going to the Pittsburgh Penguins. This strategic roster adjustment comes as the Avalanche return from the Olympic break and refocus on their NHL season schedule.
Significance of Nelson’s Decision and Avalanche’s Next Steps
Brock Nelson’s choice to skip the White House ceremony is notable given his standing as a third-generation Olympian and his recent achievement in securing Olympic gold. His decision underscores a thoughtful balance between personal priorities and professional obligations to the Avalanche. As the team transitions back into NHL play, keeping key players rested and ready for upcoming challenges will be critical.
The Avalanche’s upcoming game against the Utah Mammoth in Salt Lake City represents their first competition following the Olympic hiatus. With additions like Brett Kulak and returning Olympians, the team aims to maintain momentum from their international success. Fans and analysts alike will be watching how these roster dynamics influence the Avalanche’s performance moving forward in the season.
