Ottawa Senators fans are eagerly anticipating the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, Italy, especially with NHL players returning to the international stage for the first time since 2014. Here’s a comprehensive guide for Ottawa faithful looking to follow their favorite players and the tournament.
Sens on the International Stage
Several Ottawa Senators players are set to represent their respective countries. Forwards Brady Tkachuk and Tim Stützle, along with defenseman Jake Sanderson, headline the list of Sens players competing at the Winter Games. Tkachuk will don the red, white, and blue for Team USA, while Stützle will skate for Germany. Sanderson will also represent the United States. Additionally, Nikolas Matinpalo is expected to suit up for Finland, Lars Eller for Denmark, and Mads Søgaard is also a possibility for Team Denmark.
According to a February 6, 2026, article, the Senators are sending a full starting lineup – three forwards, two defensemen, and one goalie – to compete at the Winter Games.
Key Dates and Venues
The men's ice hockey tournament will take place from February 11 to February 22, 2026. The women's tournament commences on February 5, culminating in the gold medal game on February 19. Hockey matches will be held at two primary venues in Milan: the PalaItalia and the Milano Rho Ice Hockey Arena. A new arena built in southeast Milan, the Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena, will also host games and represents one of the most significant legacies of the Winter Olympics. This state-of-the-art facility has a seating capacity of 14,000, promising an immersive experience for fans.
How to Watch
For fans in Canada, TSN and CBC will provide comprehensive coverage of the Winter Olympics, including all hockey games. In the United States, networks like NBC and its streaming platforms are expected to broadcast the games. Check local listings for specific schedules and channels.
Players to Watch
- Brady Tkachuk (USA): Known for his leadership and physical play, Tkachuk will be a key player for the American team.
- Tim Stützle (Germany): The dynamic forward is expected to play a significant role for Germany, potentially logging heavy minutes.
- Jake Sanderson (USA): The talented defenseman will face stiff competition for ice time on a star-studded American defensive corps.
- Lars Eller (Denmark): A veteran presence, Eller is a near-certainty for the Danish squad.
- Nikolas Matinpalo (Finland): Matinpalo has a chance to crack Finland's bottom defensive pairing.
- Mads Sogaard (Denmark): Sogaard could serve as Frederik Andersen's backup, given his NHL experience.
Team Canada's Outlook
Team Canada is considered a top contender for gold, boasting a roster filled with NHL stars. Sidney Crosby, Connor McDavid, and Nathan MacKinnon headline a potent forward group. Cale Makar and Devon Toews anchor a strong defensive unit. According to projected lines, Macklin Celebrini, Connor McDavid and Mitch Marner may be on the same line, and Sidney Crosby, Nathan MacKinnon, and Sam Reinhart may also be linemates. The team is deep with play-drivers and two-way forwards such as Mitch Marner and Brad Marchand.
Canada's preliminary schedule includes games against Team Czechia on February 12, Team Switzerland on February 13, and Team France on February 15.
With NHL players back in the fold, the 2026 Winter Olympics promises to be an exciting event for hockey fans. Keep an eye on these Ottawa Senators as they chase Olympic glory!