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Olympic news: Connor McDavid and Sidney Crosby ignite Team Canada's Olympic dream with explosive first six reveal
Canada's Connor McDavid (97) celebrates after his game-winning goal (Credit: Charles Krupa /AP)
Team Canada set the tone early for the 2026 Winter Olympics by unveiling the first six players on its men's hockey roster. The announcement included superstars Connor McDavid and Sidney Crosby.
This signals Canada's intent to reclaim Olympic gold with a blend of generational talent and veteran poise, and the lineup also features Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, Brayden Point, and Sam Reinhart, each coming off strong NHL seasons.
Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar bring two-way dominance
While McDavid and Crosby will drive headlines, the Colorado Avalanche duo of Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar brings critical balance. MacKinnon, 29, is coming off a Hart Trophy-nominated season with 116 points.
His blend of speed and strength dominated the 4 Nations Face-Off, where he led all scorers.
Cale Makar, 26, was named the NHL's best defenseman again this year, recording a career-high 92 points and his first 30-goal season. His offensive instincts and defensive awareness give Canada a foundational blueline piece. Makar's consistent Norris Trophy-caliber play makes him one of the most feared defenders in international hockey.
Did Canada get 'first six' Olympic roster picks right?
Sam Reinhart and Brayden Point offer playoff poise and firepower
Brayden Point and Sam Reinhart round out the first six selections, offering playoff-tested poise and clutch scoring. Point hit the 40-goal mark for the third straight season with Tampa Bay. Known for his quick-strike ability and composure. He adds versatility and grit to Canada's forward group.
Both players complement the star power of McDavid and Crosby with a balanced, two-way gam. And that translates well in Olympic competition; their selection also reflects Canada's focus on recent performance.
Along with team chemistry, and adaptability on the international stage.
Canada sets the tone early for Olympic gold push
The early reveal of McDavid, Crosby, MacKinnon, Makar, Point, and Reinhart gives Canada a compelling mix of explosive skill and composed leadership. With the full roster to be finalized later this year, this first six announcement sends a clear message to the hockey world: Canada is not waiting to assert its dominance.
Read more:
Olympic news shocker as Gabriel Landeskog and William Nylander lead Team Sweden's NHL-loaded 2026 roster reveal
The men's hockey tournament begins February 11, with the gold medal game scheduled for February 22 in Italy.
