Vancouver Canucks defenseman Quinn Hughes and forward Conor Garland have been named to the U.S. Men's Olympic Orientation Camp roster. USA Hockey announced that 44 players would attend the camp in Plymouth, Michigan, from August 26-27.
Hughes was already named to the U.S. Olympic team in June as part of the "first six" players revealed. Garland will be hoping to join him when the final roster is announced in January. The orientation camp is primarily for administrative and team-building purposes, with no formal on-ice activities or public access.
Garland's invitation to the camp might come as a surprise to some. However, his performance at the 2025 World Championship likely played a significant role in earning him the invitation. Garland has consistently been a key player for Team USA at the World Championship, amassing 13 goals and 31 points in 30 games. In the 2025 World Championship, he scored five goals and ten points, contributing significantly to the team's gold medal win – the first in 92 years. His performance earned him recognition as one of the tournament's top three players.
Throughout his four seasons with the Canucks, Garland has maintained consistency, averaging around 20 goals and 50 points each season. He has proven to be a versatile two-way forward, contributing defensively and driving puck possession. At the 2025 World Championship, he showcased his versatility by contributing on the penalty kill and playing on the top line.
Garland's ability to play in various roles makes him an attractive option for USA Hockey. His versatility allows them to place him in a bottom-six role or elevate him to a top-line position as a complementary winger.
While Garland and Hughes will be present, other Canucks players, such as Brock Boeser and Thatcher Demko, were not invited. Boeser is coming off a season where he scored 25 goals and 50 points. Demko, a Vezina Trophy finalist the year prior, struggled with injuries during the 2025-26 season.
The orientation camp will feature 44 players from 24 different NHL teams. Former Canucks forward J.T. Miller was also named to the camp roster. Six players have already been named to the U.S. Olympic team: Auston Matthews, Jack Eichel, Brady Tkachuk, Matthew Tkachuk, Quinn Hughes, and Charlie McAvoy.
