Serge Savard elevates the 1976 Canada Cup roster above the famed 1972 Summit Series squad, calling it Canada’s best collection of talent. He notes the missing trio of Hull, Orr, Lafleur in 1972 and contrasts that with the depth of the 1976 lineup, which boasted 18 future Hall of Famers and a championship that showcased elite skill against Czechoslovakia, Sweden, the United States, Finland, and the Soviet Union.

Orr’s late-career MVP performance, Hull’s late-blooming integration after WHA ties, Lafleur’s peak years, and Sittler’s championship goal amid Cherry’s tactical reminders form the backbone of Savard’s case. Bowman’s steady coaching and Clarke’s leadership—alongside McDonald, Esposito, Robinson, and many others—helped set a standard for international competition, influencing how fans and fantasy players view rosters, talent depth, and the pipeline to future Olympics and world championships.

Ryker Evans signed a two-year extension with the Seattle Kraken, locking in a mobile, 23-year-old defenseman through 2026-27 with a 2.05 million AAV. In his first full NHL season, Evans posted 25 points (5 goals, 20 assists) across 73 games, establishing himself as a reliable, up-tempo blueliner with room to grow. A second-round pick from 2021, he debuted in December 2023 and finished with 34 points in 109 NHL games, signaling a rising contributor on Seattle’s back end.

Seattle’s brass back Evans, stressing his yearly progress and belief he’ll elevate his game again next season. His international experience with Canada at the world hockey championship—two assists in eight games—adds to his profile as a young defender who can push for more minutes and increased role, including potential power-play opportunities as he develops.

For fantasy audiences, the deal hints at a stable, cost-controlled defensive option in Seattle’s system who could emerge as a multi-category contributor if minutes and role expand. Evans’ trajectory suggests a potential jump from a solid depth piece to a breakout candidate, assuming he continues advancing his two-way game and offensive pop while benefiting from a growing Kraken core.

Former Dallas Stars head coach Pete DeBoer has quickly found a new role as part of Team Canada's coaching staff ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympic Games. DeBoer, who was released from his position after a disappointing run in the Western Conference Finals, brings a wealth of experience to the national team, where he will work alongside notable coaches including Bruce Cassidy of the Vegas Golden Knights and Rick Tocchet of the Philadelphia Flyers.

This coaching group is tasked with leading Team Canada’s men's hockey team against international rivals, starting with their opening match against Czechia on February 12. The inclusion of DeBoer illustrates a commitment to combining veteran coaching talent, aiming to enhance Team Canada's chances for Olympic success.

Jon Cooper will lead Canada’s men’s hockey team at the Milan-Cortina Olympics, building on the success of the 4 Nations Face-Off. Key members from his coaching staff include Bruce Cassidy, Rick Tocchet, Peter DeBoer, and Misha Donskov. This group helped Canada win the recent tournament, showcasing their capabilities in international play. Connor McDavid's overtime goal secured a thrilling victory over the United States, further solidifying the team's potential ahead of the Olympics.

Cooper expressed excitement about the continuity and expertise the staff brings, emphasizing that players will benefit from their elite coaching experience. With the Olympics scheduled for February 2026, the team aims to reclaim the gold medal they last won in 2014. The framework of the coaching staff promises a stable and familiar environment as they prepare for the global stage.

The Hunter brothers, Dale and Mark, are set to lead Team Canada at the upcoming World Junior Championship, following their impressive track record with the London Knights, which includes three Memorial Cups. Dale Hunter emphasized the honor and challenge of coaching the national team, noting the increasing competition. Canada has seen mixed results in recent tournaments, bouncing back after two gold medals in 2022 and 2023 to finish fifth in 2024.

Under their leadership, the focus will be on instilling a pressure-free environment for young players while maintaining a commitment to skill and speed. The tournament kicks off in Minneapolis, where the Canadian junior team, featuring top prospect Matthew Schaefer, will compete against strong teams such as Finland and Sweden.