NHL stars return to Olympic hockey as Milan venues face delays

Team USA’s Olympic hockey prospects just sharpened with the return of NHL players to the men’s roster for the first time since 2014, a development that raises expectations for a strong medal push in Milan. The national program enters February’s tournaments with marquee names such as Auston Matthews and Jack Eichel slated as focal points of a deeper, more experienced roster. That infusion of top-tier talent increases the United States’ competitiveness against traditional powers and shifts how local fans should plan viewing and travel.

On the women’s side, the roster mix reflects the evolving landscape of the sport: a blend of PWHL professionals and top college players creates balance between veteran leadership and younger depth. Hilary Knight and other longtime internationals provide experience that could tilt close games, while college standouts offer speed and cost-effective roster flexibility. The Paralympic sled-hockey squad rounds out U.S. representation, keeping para-sport visibility high and expanding the event’s local appeal for adaptive-sport supporters in Summit County.

Games are scheduled to take place in Milan at the Milano Santagiulia and Milano Rho arenas, with tournaments opening in early February. Reported construction delays at Olympic venues have introduced logistical uncertainty, prompting organizers and national teams to monitor schedules closely. For Summit County residents planning to travel, purchase tickets, or organize slope-side and tavern viewing parties, those delays increase the importance of flexible bookings and checking official game schedules before finalizing plans.

The return of NHL talent is significant not only for medal calculations but for long-term trends in international hockey. NHL participation after a 12-year absence signals renewed cooperation between the league and international organizers, which could affect future Olympic cycles and player development pathways. The prominence of PWHL players on the women’s roster underscores the professionalization of women’s hockey and its rising visibility, a trend likely to translate into higher youth enrollment and more local interest in girls’ programs across Summit County.

Economically, a high-profile U.S. performance could stimulate upticks in merchandise sales, themed events at restaurants and bars, and spur viewership-driven advertising for local businesses. For parents and youth players, seeing NHL and PWHL athletes on the same ice highlights tangible career pathways in the sport and may drive enrollment in local rinks and camps.

What comes next is final roster confirmation and close monitoring of venue readiness. Summit County fans should keep travel plans flexible, watch for schedule updates, and expect an elevated level of play that could make Milan 2026 one of the most watched Olympic hockey tournaments in recent memory.