Canada’s 4 Nations roster set the Olympic stage in the shadow of 2026 Italy, with Thomas and Suzuki still chasing a spot after last December’s snub. The event doubles as a prove-it sprint for veterans and a coming-out party for rising stars, as 18 weeks remain to the Games. The battlefield widens: health, form and timing will decide who lands in the Olympic lineup and who misses out.

Opening night sets the tone for 2025-26 with a tripleheader headlined by Florida as they raise the banner and host Connor Bedard’s Blackhawks; Crosby’s Penguins collide with the Rangers at MSG; and Makar leads Colorado into Los Angeles to face the Kings. Florida chases a three-peat while Kucherov eyes another 100-point season and Crosby and Ovechkin chase monumental milestones. Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics add an extra layer of star power and intrigue for fantasy managers and bettors alike.

The preview dives into offseason moves, breakout and veteran performance ceilings, and the evolving pace of NHL offense, plus the return of big-event spectacles and the shifting rosters that could shape fantasy value from opening night. It also spotlights rising talents and marquee matchups that could define early-season momentum and playoff positioning.