NHL clears path for Auston Matthews and Tkachuk brothers to assemble super team in 2026

The 2025–26 NHL season has just ended and everyone is already gearing up for 2026. Now, the league has surprised hockey fans by approving the formation of a super team next year that will include Auston Matthews, the Tkachuk brothers, and other stars.

Hockey doesn’t stop even when no games are being played. In 2026, the Winter Olympics will take place, and the NHL has shared exciting news for fans ahead of this highly anticipated event.

On Wednesday, the NHL officially approved players to be called up by their national teams to participate in Milano-Cortina 2026. Naturally, Team USA is expected to feature a star-studded roster as they compete for the gold medal.

Team USA announces first six NHL players for the 2026 Winter Olympics

After months of negotiations and speculation, the NHL has officially given the green light for its players to participate in the 2026 Winter Olympics. After missing the 2018 and 2022 editions, the league reached an agreement with the NHLPA, IIHF, and IOC to allow its athletes to compete.

All 12 participating nations have now confirmed the first six players who will represent their countries. For Team USA, the early list features a group of elite NHL talent, offering a glimpse at what could be one of the most dominant rosters in the tournament.

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Auston Matthews, Brady Tkachuk, Matthew Tkachuk, Charlie McAvoy, Jack Eichel, and Quinn Hughes were the first players announced by Team USA for the 2026 Winter Olympics. The remainder of the roster will be revealed later this year.

This preliminary lineup is subject to change in case of injuries or availability issues. However, Matthews and the Tkachuk brothers are expected to be key figures, just as they have been on NHL ice.

Which other players could Team USA call for the 2026 Winter Olympics?

Beyond the first six names, Team USA has a deep pool of elite talent to choose from. Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck is expected to be the top option in net, while defensemen like Jaccob Slavin and Adam Fox could round out a formidable blue line.

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Emerging stars like Trevor Zegras, Jack Hughes, and Cole Caufield could also make the cut, giving Team USA a perfect mix of youth, speed, and offensive creativity. With so many options available, the final roster is shaping up to be one of the strongest the U.S. has ever assembled for the Winter Olympics.