Logan Thompson, backup goaltender for Team Canada, recently rejoined the Washington Capitals following a deeply emotional experience at the Winter Olympics in Milan. Despite not being on the ice when Jack Hughes scored the winning goal for the United States in overtime during the Gold Medal Game, Thompson felt the sting of the loss profoundly. Returning from Milan on Monday, he participated in the Capitals’ morning skate on Wednesday ahead of their matchup against the Philadelphia Flyers. Thompson continues to process the disappointment but remains proud of his role in representing Canada on the world stage during the tournament.
Reflecting on Pride and the Olympic Journey
Thompson expressed immense pride in wearing the Canadian jersey, describing the Olympic experience as both challenging and rewarding. He highlighted the unique bond shared among teammates, emphasizing the special atmosphere in the dressing room despite the outcome.
“Good to represent my country and was really proud to do that,”
he said.
“A really special group of guys in that dressing room. It wasn’t the result that we wanted, but definitely put things in a different perspective for me as a player and as a Canadian.”
While the dream of Olympic gold went unfulfilled, Thompson acknowledged the event as a once-in-a-lifetime milestone.
“I think overall, dream come true. But not being able to come home with gold is going to probably sting for a while… I was in that dressing room with those guys (after the loss); it was hard. I’m just going to learn from it, and just excited to be back here and back to work.”
A Newcomer on the International Stage
Before the Olympics, Thompson’s international experience was limited, having only played in the 2022 IIHF World Championships. He was not part of Canada’s 4 Nations tournament roster last year and was not initially considered a certain pick for Milan, partly due to reportedly difficult relations with Canada’s coaching staff. His impressive start to the 2025-26 NHL season ultimately earned him a spot on the team, offering Thompson an unprecedented opportunity to compete alongside some of the sport’s most renowned players.
Learning from Hockey Legends and Building Lasting Connections
The Olympics provided Thompson an opportunity to interact with veteran stars such as Sidney Crosby, Brad Marchand, and Drew Doughty.
“It was good. It was emotional,”
he shared.
“It was awesome to talk with guys like Sid (Sidney Crosby) and (Brad) Marchand, guys who’ve been around the game — (Drew) Doughty — for so long that are going to be Hall of Fame players.”
These moments left a significant impression on Thompson, broadening his perspective on both hockey and teamwork.
Emotions Following the Gold Medal Game
Although Thompson was not in net during the gold-winning goal, he was present on the bench and experienced the raw emotions of the immediate aftermath.
“It was emotional after the (Gold Medal) game too,”
he said.
“Seeing their reaction, obviously me just being able to put that jersey on and being on the bench was special. But it stings as well, especially for a guy like Sid. I think everyone in the room wanted to get it done for him. Yeah, it’s tough, and (I’m) still not completely over it.”
Memorable Off-Ice Moments and Team Camaraderie
Beyond the intensity of competition, Thompson enjoyed connecting with fellow athletes and teammates outside the rink. He recalled attending short track speed skating events and the unifying spirit he felt with other Canadians at the Games.
“We had a couple of days with the short track speed skating, which was a lot of fun,”
Thompson remarked.
“Just being around all those athletes and seeing all those other sports, and just other Canadians just being proud, wearing the Maple Leaf, and everyone just all coming together, I think was just something that you really can’t explain.”
Looking Ahead to Future Olympic Opportunities
Though the tournament concluded recently, Thompson is already setting his sights on participating in future Olympic Games. He described his experience amid the international field as unforgettable.
“Being there with all the other countries, all those great athletes, it was definitely a really cool experience and something that will live with me forever,”
he said.
“I’m hoping that I can go back for one more in four more years, so that’s going to be my goal.”
Support for Teammates and Praise for Tom Wilson
Thompson noted the presence of familiar faces in the Canadian locker room, notably teammate Tom Wilson of the Capitals. Wilson performed admirably during the Olympics, playing on Canada’s top line with Connor McDavid and Macklin Celebrini and achieving a Gordie Howe hat trick. Thompson praised Wilson’s dedication and heart.
“I thought Tom was amazing in the tournament,”
he said.
“As his teammate and his friend, couldn’t be happier for him. He deserved more, but he played his heart out. And I think he represented the Washington Capitals and Canadians really, really well.”
On-Ice Contributions and Overcoming the Final Loss
Thompson saw action in one Olympic game, recording 24 saves in a 5-1 victory over Switzerland during the preliminary round. Though sitting on the bench for the final loss was difficult, he recognized the impressive performance of the American goaltender, Connor Hellebuyck.
“Being on that bench was tough,”
Thompson said.
“We were there, I thought we were the better team all night, but sometimes you’ve got to tip your cap to a really good goalie, and we just couldn’t seem to get one in. It’s frustrating, but that’s what makes our sport great, is that’s how it goes sometimes. But just got to move on, and the sun will come up another day.”
Souvenirs and Shared Memories from Milan
Reflecting on mementos brought home from the Olympics, Thompson spoke about carrying the silver medal and the intangible memories the experience gave him. Responding to a question about the now-famous plush animals given to medalists, he said,
“Yeah, I got the stuffed animal. It’s cool. I mean, it’s obviously a part of the experience. Overall, it was nothing bad and only good memories.”
There was also a lighthearted mention of finding a keepsake for teammate Brandon Duhaime as a delayed wedding present.
“I’ll look through my bag. I’m sure I can find something for him,”
Thompson said with a smile.
Preparing for the Capitals’ Postseason Drive
Now fully focused on the NHL season, Thompson aims to help the Washington Capitals secure a playoff spot during the final 23 games. The team currently sits four points behind a postseason position but has played more games than most other teams. Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery announced Thompson would start in goal against the Flyers and expressed confidence in his readiness despite limited recent game action.
“He’s been taking flank one-timers from Nathan MacKinnon — I think he’ll be all right,”
Carbery said with a grin.
“He’s been over there and playing in as intense practice scenarios — I don’t care if it’s warm-up, whatever it is. He’s still completely dialed in over there and making sure his game is in as good a spot as it could possibly be. So him coming back and traveling back, I (have) zero concerns.”
Thompson himself kept his confidence simple and grounded.
“I was skating with 25 of the best players in the world,”
he said. I’m hoping I’ll be okay.
