Canada entered the Milano Cortina tournament with clear expectations and a roster filled with proven NHL talent. The opening game against Czechia offered the first look at how this group has planned to compete. Early moments hinted at a team ready to play with pace and physical intent.
That tone is reflected in Connor McDavid’s first Olympic shift, which set the stage for the night’s biggest talking point.
Team Canada’s Connor McDavid Lays Big Hit on Lukas Sedlak in First Olympic Game
McDavid wasted little time making his presence felt in his Olympic debut against Czechia. During his first shift, he chased the puck behind the Czech net and delivered a strong check on Lukas Sedlak. The hit sent Sedlak to the ice and drew loud reactions from fans inside Santagiulia Arena. The early play showed Canada’s intent to pressure opponents from the start.
Sedlak answered later in the same sequence and took a penalty after engaging McDavid. Canada earned the first power play but could not convert despite early zone time. Even without a goal, the shift helped Canada set its pace and physical approach. McDavid centered Macklin Celebrini and Tom Wilson, forming a line built for speed and physical play.
McDavid with an absolutely massive hit to start the game off pic.twitter.com/2MCsAX2s6P
— Dyl (@dhockey13) February 12, 2026
Jordan Binnington started in goal for Canada after strong preparation during camp. Before the game, he said he planned to stay focused on his routine and take the tournament one day at a time.
“I’m taking it all in one day at a time,” Binnington said. “The games begin tomorrow. For us, it’s been a lot of fun just competing in practice and being around this team and these guys and getting to go to an event yesterday was cool to do before we get started.”
Canada also had Logan Thompson and Darcy Kuemper available as goaltending options.
Canada entered the tournament with high expectations and a deep roster built around NHL stars. Crosby played with Mitch Marner and Mark Stone, while Nathan MacKinnon lined up with Brandon Hagel and Sam Reinhart.
Bo Horvat, Nick Suzuki, and Brad Marchand formed the fourth line, with Sam Bennett rotating into forward roles. The defensive pairs featured Devon Toews with Cale Makar, along with strong depth across the blue line.
READ MORE: Team Canada Men’s Hockey Top 12 Players Ranked Featuring Connor McDavid, Cale Makar and More
After the first period, Canada’s dominance was clear, as they were leading 1-0 against Czechia. Macklin Celebrini scored the first goal for Canada late in the first period, with McDavid and Makar assisting on it. Binnington did not allow a single goal in the first period, despite facing nearly a dozen shots.
But McDavid’s physical start against Czechia has made it clear how Canada wants to compete.
