The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina are almost here, and hockey fans are eager to see Team Canada’s roster. With NHL players returning to the Olympics for the first time since 2014, every roster spot is important. Six players are already confirmed, including Sidney Crosby, Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar, Brayden Point, and Sam Reinhart.
The rest of the roster will be announced on Wednesday, sparking debate and speculation about who will make the team. Fans and analysts are watching closely as Team Canada fills the remaining spots.
Should Team Canada Consider Resting Islanders’ Matthew Schaefer for the Olympics?
One player drawing attention is New York Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer. The 18-year-old recently became the youngest defenseman in NHL history to reach 25 career points during a 3-2 shootout win over the Chicago Blackhawks. While Schaefer has impressed with his play, some former NHL players are cautioning that he might be better off skipping the Olympics to avoid overwork.
Schaefer has had an impressive rookie season with the Islanders, recording nine goals and 16 assists for 25 points while logging over 23 minutes of ice time per game. He plays a smart, two-way game and makes valuable contributions on special teams.
NHL analyst Jason Demers suggested on X that Team Canada should consider giving him a break. “Schaefer needs rest and has played so much hockey this year, I wouldn’t risk it,” Demers said. He added that Jacob Chychrun could be a better option, noting that chemistry between defensemen is crucial for Olympic success.
Schaefer himself is focused on the Islanders. Speaking with reporter Ethan Sears, he said, “If they call, great. If not, I’m just playing with the Islanders and focusing on this. … There’s a lot of great Canadian defensemen and a lot in the NHL.” His words show that he is grounded and aware of the depth of talent available to Team Canada, while keeping his attention focused on his rookie season.
READ MORE: Islanders Sensation Matthew Schaefer Unseats Sidney Crosby in NHL History Books
Schaefer got drafted first overall in the 2025 NHL draft and is emerging as a promising offensive defenseman. He is already drawing comparisons to Cale Makar and Quinn Hughes.
Former Rangers GM Neil Smith says Schaefer’s development mirrors Makar’s rise, saying, “I’ve watched Schaefer since the start of the season, and I can see him developing like Makar. But the interesting thing is that we didn’t see him coming.”
As the roster announcement approaches, discussion around Schaefer is likely to intensify. Fans will soon find out if he makes the Olympic roster or focuses on finishing a historic rookie season with the Islanders.
