As the December 31st deadline looms for finalizing rosters for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy, a compelling case is building for Edmonton Oilers forward Zach Hyman to represent Canada. While Connor McDavid's place on Team Canada is assured, Hyman's recent performance has elevated him from a long shot to a legitimate contender for a roster spot.
Hyman's journey to Olympic consideration hasn't been without its challenges. After undergoing surgery to repair a wrist injury sustained during the Stanley Cup Playoffs last May, his chances of making the team appeared slim. However, the Toronto native has defied expectations with a remarkable stretch of games, showcasing the qualities that make him an ideal fit for international competition.
In his last nine games, Hyman has tallied 14 points, firing 35 shots on goal with a plus-6 rating. Since December 10th, he has scored eight goals, tying him with McDavid and Minnesota Wild winger Matt Boldy for the most in the NHL during that period. After a slow start upon his return on November 15th, Hyman has rediscovered his scoring touch, amassing 10 goals and 10 assists in 20 games. This resurgence mirrors his consistent performance over the past four seasons, where he has scored at least 27 goals each year, including a career-high 54 in 2023-24.
Beyond his offensive contributions, Hyman's playing style is well-suited for the Olympic stage. Olympic games often feature tighter offensive zones and less time and space than NHL games. Hyman excels in these conditions, thriving in the dirty areas around the net and consistently converting second and third chances. His ability to get to the net and finish plays separates him from many other complementary forwards.
Hyman's value extends beyond scoring. He doesn't need the puck to influence a shift, and his north-south style translates effectively to international play. His net-front presence creates space for McDavid, and his finishing ability ensures that dominant shifts result in goals. In a tournament where a single greasy goal can determine an elimination game, Hyman's skillset becomes even more valuable.
The chemistry between Hyman, McDavid, and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins has sparked discussions about keeping the trio together on Canada's top line. The line's dominance has been undeniable, with McDavid recording 31 points and Hyman and Nugent-Hopkins contributing 15 and 13 points, respectively, in their recent games together. Replicating the Crosby-Kunitz formula from the 2014 Sochi Olympics, where Sidney Crosby was paired with his Pittsburgh Penguins linemate Chris Kunitz, could prove successful for Canada in 2026.
While Hockey Canada's management team, led by general manager Doug Armstrong, faces difficult decisions in finalizing the roster, Hyman has undoubtedly made a compelling case for his inclusion. His scoring touch, complementary skillset, and established chemistry with McDavid make him a strong candidate to wear the maple leaf in Milan. As the deadline approaches, Hyman's performance has solidified his position in the conversation, proving that he deserves to be on Canada's Olympic Team.
