Alex DeBrincat Advocates for Olympic Selection with Team USA

Detroit Red Wings forward Alex DeBrincat is actively campaigning for a spot on Team USA for the 2026 Winter Olympics. Despite not being selected for the recent 4 Nations Face-Off and not being invited to the Olympic camp, DeBrincat believes his performance this season warrants consideration. He stated, “I believe in myself. I believe I should be on that team. I feel good right now,” emphasizing the competitive nature of the selection process given the presence of many talented players.

Red Wings’ Alex DeBrincat ‘should be on’ Team USA at Olympics, he says

DeBrincat, who stands at 5-foot-8 and weighs 180 pounds, has faced scrutiny regarding his size and defensive capabilities, as evidenced by his career minus-59 rating in the NHL. However, he asserts that he has improved defensively this season and is capable of adapting his play style to fit a different role on the Olympic team. He noted, “I think I can go out there and grind... I think I'm capable of it,” suggesting that he can perform effectively even with reduced playing time.

DeBrincat believes 'I should be on that team' for U.S. at Olympics

Red Wings coach Todd McLellan echoed this sentiment, stating, “He could go anywhere in our lineup and I think he'd play the same game over and over again.” This versatility could be crucial for Team USA, which will need players who can adjust to various roles under pressure.

DeBrincat believes 'I should be on that team' for U.S. at Olympics

As Team USA prepares for the Olympics, they face the challenge of selecting a roster from a pool of talented players. Currently, 18 of the top 27 American scorers are not on the 4 Nations roster, indicating the depth of talent available. DeBrincat recognizes the difficult decisions facing the U.S. executives and coaches, remarking, “I'm sure they have some hard, tough choices... it's up to them, so we'll see what happens.”

DeBrincat believes 'I should be on that team' for U.S. at Olympics

DeBrincat's Olympic aspirations are not without precedent. He was cut from the 2017 IIHF World Junior Championship team despite a strong performance in the previous year. This history adds a layer of urgency to his current campaign, as he aims to prove his worth to the selection committee.

DeBrincat believes 'I should be on that team' for U.S. at Olympics

Despite DeBrincat's strong self-advocacy, some critics may question his defensive skills and overall fit within the Olympic lineup. The U.S. coaching staff will need to weigh his recent performance against his historical contributions and the specific needs of the team.

DeBrincat believes 'I should be on that team' for U.S. at Olympics

The final roster for Team USA must be submitted by the end of December, with the Olympic tournament scheduled for February 11-22, 2026. DeBrincat's continued performance in the NHL will be crucial as he seeks to secure his place on the team.

DeBrincat believes 'I should be on that team' for U.S. at Olympics

• “I believe in myself, and I believe I'd be good for the [Olympic] team,” — Alex DeBrincat, Forward, Detroit Red Wings

DeBrincat believes 'I should be on that team' for U.S. at Olympics

• “He could go anywhere in our lineup and I think he'd play the same game over and over and over again," Red Wings coach Todd McLellan said.” — Todd McLellan, Head Coach, Detroit Red Wings

DeBrincat believes 'I should be on that team' for U.S. at Olympics

• “I believe I should be on that team. I feel good right now. With that being said, there's a lot of good players. I'm sure they have some hard, tough choices.” — Alex DeBrincat, Forward, Detroit Red Wings

Red Wings’ Alex DeBrincat ‘should be on’ Team USA at Olympics, he says

• “This year I've been relatively good defensively,” — Alex DeBrincat, Forward, Detroit Red Wings

DeBrincat believes 'I should be on that team' for U.S. at Olympics