NHL Legend Wayne Gretzky Puts Cards on the Table Over Team Canada’s Goaltending Problem

As the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina draw closer, Team Canada’s management has begun finalizing its roster. General manager Doug Armstrong and his staff have trimmed their list of prospects to a smaller, more focused group as they prepare for the December 31 deadline.

While many positions appear close to being set, one question continues to dominate the discussion: who will stand in goal for Canada? With the tournament scheduled from February 11 to 22, the goaltending debate has drawn the attention of one of hockey’s most respected voices.

Is Wayne Gretzky worried about Team Canada’s goaltending?

Wayne Gretzky, one of the greatest scorers in NHL history, remains calm about Canada’s goaltending situation. During an appearance on 100% Hockey with John Shannon and Daren Millard, Gretzky shared his thoughts on the issue that has been at the center of Canada’s Olympic preparations.

When asked if he was concerned about Canada’s goalies, Gretzky replied, “No, not at all. Because Canadians, as soon as they put the jersey on, go to another level. It has been that way since 1972.”

Gretzky’s confidence reflected his belief that wearing the red maple leaf brings out the best in every Canadian player when it matters most.

He looked back on the 1972 Summit Series, describing it as a turning point in Canadian hockey history. Gretzky recalled Bobby Clarke’s remarkable play and Paul Henderson’s iconic moment, saying, “Who would’ve picked Paul Henderson to be the biggest hero? … He should absolutely be in the Hall of Fame.”

For Gretzky, that series represents how Canadian players consistently rise beyond expectations.

That same belief extends to Canada’s current goaltenders. With Jordan Binnington, Logan Thompson, and Sam Montembeault likely to form the group after Adin Hill’s injury, many have questioned whether this trio can compete with the likes of Team USA’s Connor Hellebuyck or Sweden’s Linus Ullmark. Gretzky, however, remains optimistic.

“Whoever they decide on the goaltender, he’ll play well. The defense on Team Canada is so strong and solid,” he said.

While statistics might suggest challenges, Gretzky’s words carry the confidence of experience and tradition. “Our guys are fine. The Canadian guys will rise to another level. I’m not worried about our goaltending at all,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, analyst Kevin Woodley of NHL.com and InGoal Magazine believes Binnington is still in contention due to his past performances, but admits his current form is troubling.

“I still think Binnington’s going to be there just because of what he did at the 4 Nations,” Woodley said, adding that his play has “fallen off a cliff early this season.”

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Woodley also noted that Logan Thompson’s strong numbers this year could make him a serious challenger for the starting role.