Forty-two NHL players have been invited to Canada's orientation camp in Calgary from August 26-28, a preliminary step toward assembling the final 25-man roster for the 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina. Notable invitees include Macklin Celebrini, the No. 1 overall pick of the 2024 NHL Draft, and Connor Bedard, who made headlines as the 2023 NHL Draft's top selection. Celebrini had an impressive season with 63 points in 70 games, earning him a Calder Trophy finalist spot, while Bedard tallied 67 points over 82 games with the Chicago Blackhawks.

This year marks the return of NHL players to the Olympic arena since Sochi 2014, signaling a highly competitive tournament beginning with preliminary games on February 11, culminating in the gold medal match on February 22. Team Canada consists of established superstars, including Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid, alongside younger talents like Celebrini and Bedard, underlining a blend of experience and fresh vigor.

Matvei Michkov has made a significant impact in his rookie season with the Philadelphia Flyers, earning a spot on the NHL All-Rookie Team alongside fellow stars like Macklin Celebrini and Cutter Gauthier. Despite finishing fourth in Calder Trophy voting, Michkov led all NHL rookies with 26 goals while also tying for the second-most points on the team with 63, showcasing remarkable talent and determination.

His performance included leading all rookies in overtime goals, tying the legendary Sidney Crosby for the most by a teenager in NHL history. General manager Danny Brière praised his preparedness and mindset, indicating that Michkov's intelligence and work ethic set him apart from others. This season has seen him become the first Flyers rookie to score more than 60 points since 1994, and he remains focused on improving for next season.

Lane Hutson, the Montreal Canadiens' promising defenseman, has clinched the Calder Memorial Trophy, awarded annually to the top rookie in the NHL. Hutson garnered an impressive 165 first-place votes, leading the competition by a significant margin. He racked up 66 points this season, with 60 assists, tying the NHL record for most assists by a rookie defenseman, a feat previously achieved by the legendary Larry Murphy.

Finishing second was Calgary Flames goalie Dustin Wolf, who posted a solid 29-16-8 record with a 2.64 GAA and .910 save percentage. San Jose Sharks center Macklin Celebrini followed with 63 points, showcasing his potential as a key player for the future. Hutson's remarkable performance this season positions him as a cornerstone for the Canadiens, and his trajectory is worth monitoring closely in fantasy leagues.

Sidney Crosby and Nathan MacKinnon are gearing up to represent Canada at the upcoming Ice Hockey World Championship, marking a decade since they last played together on the national team. Crosby, fresh off a 20th NHL season with 91 points, is determined to add another title to his impressive resume, including his Triple Gold status. This tournament serves as a crucial prelude to the 2026 Winter Olympics, where NHL players will return after a lengthy hiatus. Meanwhile, MacKinnon joins Crosby after a stellar season with the Colorado Avalanche, making this a potent offensive duo for Canada.

The Canadian roster also features young talent like Macklin Celebrini, the anticipated top pick for the 2024 NHL draft, bolstering their chances in a tournament where they hold the most titles. Other notable teams include the defending champions, Czech Republic, with David Pastrnak aiming for another medal, and the USA, led by Clayton Keller. As the competition unfolds, Canada emerges as the clear favorite, especially with the star power of Crosby and MacKinnon at the forefront.