Team USA’s men’s hockey team has started practicing in Italy ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics, giving fans a look at possible line combinations and defensive pairings. Coaches are testing different options to see which players fit best together before the first game against Latvia.
The team will also face Denmark and Germany in the group stage, with every match helping prepare for the single-elimination playoff that culminates in the gold medal game. NHL players are back in the Olympics for the first time since 2014, raising interest and expectations around the U.S. roster.
Team USA’s Projected Lines Ahead of 2026 Olympic Opener Draws Reactions From NHL Experts
Rumors about Team USA’s opening lineup have drawn attention across the hockey world. Auston Matthews is expected to lead the second line with Jake Guentzel on left wing and Matt Boldy on right, while Jack Eichel will center the first line with Brady and Matthew Tkachuk on the wings.
On defense, Quinn Hughes is paired with Charlie McAvoy, followed by Jaccob Slavin with Brock Faber, and Zach Werenski with Noah Hanifin. Jake Sanderson is expected to pair with Jackson LaCombe.
NHL insider Michael Russo shared the above potential lines on X, highlighting a mix of veteran and younger players taking key roles. Matthews being on the second line was a surprise, among other placements. It led NHL experts and reporters to share their reactions.
Russo’s X post highlighted a mix of veteran and younger players taking key roles, which led NHL insiders and reporters to share their reactions on X.
Reporter Chris Meaney added, “Matt Boldy is in for a massive Olympics. He has a legitimate chance to lead the USA in goals,” pointing to Boldy’s opportunity to make an impact.
Jake Sanderson’s role has also drawn attention from fans and analysts. Jim Biringer wrote, “Not surprised to see these guys at the Top 6. Little surprised Sanderson, an extra, given his play last year at Four Nations. See how the rest of the lines play out.”
Max Bultman added, “Feels like the best version of Team USA has to have Jake Sanderson taking a regular shift,” showing confidence in Sanderson’s ability to contribute.
The defensive pairings are also a focus, especially Hughes and McAvoy, who are expected to manage the top minutes and support the team in key situations. Writer Hunter noted, “Hughes-McAvoy will at least feed families. So will that top six,” emphasizing the balance of skill and experience in the lineup.
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Team USA will face Latvia first on Feb. 12 at the Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena, followed by games against Denmark and Germany. These group-stage games will test the team’s lineup choices and allow coaches to see how players perform under Olympic conditions.
As fans and analysts react to the rumored lines, attention will remain on how the team fits and executes in the opening matches.
