Team USA has announced the roster for the Men’s Olympic Orientation Camp, which will feature a range of players representing 24 different NHL teams. With the roster revealed, reactions have emerged over the absence of Lane Hutson, the young star of the Montreal Canadiens.
Hutson has proven to be one of the NHL’s standout newcomers with his performances during the 2024-25 season. The 21-year-old had a strong experience in his first full year in the league, playing all 82 regular-season games and totaling 66 points (6 goals and 60 assists).
Despite his impressive rookie season in the NHL, Hutson received the news that he would not be included in the Men’s Olympic Orientation Camp roster, sparking reactions from fans who expected him to be on the final list.
Another key absence on the roster
The Men’s Olympic Orientation Camp will take place from August 26 to 27 in Plymouth, Michigan. In addition to Hutson’s absence, another notable aspect of the roster is the exclusion of Matthew Tkachuk, the star of the Florida Panthers.
Notably, the 23 players who were part of Team USA’s men’s national squad for the Four Nations Faceoff last February will be attending the camp, with the exception of Tkachuk, who will not be called up this time.
What is the Olympic Orientation Camp?
The Olympic Orientation Camp is a two-day gathering that serves as a pre-Olympic training and evaluation event where selected NHL players come together to prepare for potential participation in the Winter Olympic Games. It does not include any formal on-ice activities or public components.