The United States has officially named its first six players for the 2026 Olympic Winter Games in hockey, selecting Matthew Tkachuk, Brady Tkachuk, Auston Matthews, Jack Eichel, Quinn Hughes, and Charlie McAvoy. The roster, released on Monday, does not include any goaltenders, with the team set to unveil additional players in the coming weeks.
The selections highlight the depth of talent within American hockey, particularly among young players who have shown promise in recent seasons. Matthew Tkachuk and Brady Tkachuk, twins who have been rising stars in the NHL, are among the key figures in the team’s plan for the 2026 Olympics. Auston Matthews, a star forward for the Toronto Maple Leafs, and Jack Eichel, a top-line player for the Buffalo Sabres, further solidify the team’s offensive capabilities.
Quinn Hughes, a defenseman for the Vancouver Canucks, and Charlie McAvoy, a forward for the Boston Bruins, add versatility and experience to the initial roster. While the team has opted not to include any goaltenders in the first batch, this decision allows for flexibility in finalizing the full squad ahead of the Games. The U.S. team will continue to evaluate and add players over the next few weeks, with the final roster expected to be announced in late 2025.
As the 2026 Olympics approach, the U.S. hockey team is focusing on assembling a competitive squad that can contend for a medal. The initial selections reflect a commitment to developing young talent and leveraging proven stars to maximize the team’s chances of success. With the World Junior Championships and other international competitions providing additional opportunities for players to gain experience, the U.S. team is well-positioned to compete at the highest level in 2026.