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Sam Bennett Snubbed; Young Defender's Olympic Chance Awaits

1/3/2026

Summary

Bennett's Olympic Omission

The exclusion of Conn Smythe winner Sam Bennett from Team Canada surprised many.
Matthew Schaefer, an 18-year-old defenceman, was expected to secure one of eight defenseman positions.
There remains a possibility he could join the Olympic team if Colorado defenceman Devon Toews withdraws due to his wife's impending childbirth, which is expected before the Olympics begin.

Summary

Hockey Canada Roster

Hockey Canada announced a 25-player roster for the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics, including NHL stars Connor McDavid, Sidney Crosby, and Nathan MacKinnon.
General manager Doug Armstrong expressed confidence in the team's depth and skill.
Notable omissions are Connor Bedard, Sam Bennett, and Matthew Schaefer, with Bedard out due to injury.
Young player Macklin Celebrini, 19, made the team.
The men's hockey competition will take place from February 12-22, marking the return of NHL players to the Olympics since 2014.

History

Historical Context

In 2014, the NHL opted not to send its players to the Sochi Olympics, disrupting international hockey dynamics. Following this, Hockey Canada announced a 25-player roster for the 2026 Olympics, marking the return of NHL players after years of absence. The exclusion of stars like Sam Bennett and Connor Bedard raises questions about team depth and selection amidst ongoing debates about Olympic participation in professional sports.

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Bennett's Olympic Omission

The exclusion of Conn Smythe winner Sam Bennett from Team Canada surprised many.
Matthew Schaefer, an 18-year-old defenceman, was expected to secure one of eight defenseman positions.
There remains a possibility he could join the Olympic team if Colorado defenceman Devon Toews withdraws due to his wife's impending childbirth, which is expected before the Olympics begin.

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