As the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy, draw closer, hockey fans are buzzing with anticipation, especially in Edmonton, where the performance of the Oilers players is a major talking point. TSN experts have projected that at least three Edmonton Oilers will represent Canada at the prestigious tournament.

Connor McDavid: A Lock for Team Canada

Connor McDavid's inclusion on Team Canada is all but guaranteed. Hockey Canada has already named him as one of the first six players to the preliminary roster. This will be McDavid's first Olympic appearance, as NHL players have not participated in the Winter Olympics since 2014. McDavid's exceptional skills and leadership qualities make him a vital asset for Canada. In the 2024-25 season, he continued his impressive performance with 26 goals and 74 assists in 67 games. His experience as an alternate captain at the 4 Nations Face-Off in 2025, where he scored the championship-clinching goal against the United States, further solidifies his importance to the team.

Other Oilers in Contention

While McDavid is a definite presence, other Oilers players are also in the mix for a spot on the Canadian roster.

• Evan Bouchard: Bouchard's offensive capabilities from the blue line make him a strong contender. While concerns exist about his defensive play, his powerful shot and ability to generate offense could be valuable assets for Canada's power play. According to TSN, Bouchard makes the team as the eighth defenseman and power play two guy.
• Zach Hyman: Hyman's strong performance playing alongside McDavid has made him a topic of discussion for the Olympic roster. TSN Director of Scouting Craig Button projected Hyman to play on the top line with McDavid. While he was notably absent from the 4 Nations Face-Off roster, his chemistry with McDavid and scoring ability could earn him a spot.
• Stuart Skinner: Although goaltending for Canada is uncertain, Skinner is in contention. While Jordan Binnington is a strong contender for the starting role, Skinner could be considered as a third option.

Canada's Potential Roster and Competition

The projected Canadian roster is expected to be a mix of experience and youth. Sidney Crosby, Nathan MacKinnon, and Cale Makar are among the key players expected to join McDavid on the team. The competition for roster spots is expected to be intense, with several players vying for limited positions.

The Canadian team is considered a favorite to win a medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics. However, challenges exist, particularly in goaltending, where Canada lacks a clear-cut star. The team's success will depend on its ability to blend its offensive firepower with solid defensive play and reliable goaltending.

With the tournament less than a year away, hockey fans and analysts will be closely monitoring the performance of these and other potential Olympians in the upcoming NHL season. The final roster selections promise to generate considerable debate as Canada aims to reclaim its place atop the Olympic podium.