The Colorado Avalanche continue to excel in the NHL, raising questions about which players may represent their countries at the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy. As nations prepare to finalize their rosters, several Avalanche players are strong candidates for selection. The deadline for roster submissions is Wednesday, and Canada will announce its team on the morning of that date, while the United States will unveil its roster on “The Today Show” on Friday.
Multiple Avalanche players are already on the radar for Olympic spots. Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar are expected to represent Canada, alongside Gabe Landeskog for Sweden and Martin Necas for Czechia. Each had already been named to their respective national teams when initial rosters were revealed in June. With several positions still open, the focus now shifts to who will join them.
Canadian Contenders and Goaltending Decisions
Among the top candidates for Canada, Devon Toews is nearly guaranteed a spot, assuming he maintains good health. Toews and Makar showcased their chemistry during the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off, where Canada won all matches they played together. They are likely to form the top defensive pairing in Milan.
Goaltending presents a more complex scenario. Mackenzie Blackwood and Scott Wedgewood have emerged as a formidable duo this season. Their performances have put them in contention for a spot, although Jordan Binnington is a near certainty given his past success with Canada. Despite a rocky start to the current season, Binnington’s role in previous victories solidifies his position.
Another notable contender is Logan Thompson, who had an impressive season with the Washington Capitals last year. His absence from the 4 Nations tournament raises questions about his selection, but his performance could earn him a place in Milan. This leaves one final spot available, with three potential candidates: former Avalanche goalie Darcy Kuemper, Blackwood, or Wedgewood. With Kuemper’s experience from the 2022 Stanley Cup Playoffs, he may have an edge in the selection process.
International Aspirations for Other Avalanche Players
For the United States, Brock Nelson is making a strong case for inclusion following a slow start to the season. While younger players boast better statistics, Nelson’s reputation as one of the league’s top two-way players may secure him a spot. The U.S. coaching staff is likely to value his ability to suppress goals, an essential trait for a short tournament.
Finland’s Artturi Lehkonen is virtually guaranteed a spot, having been a strong contributor for the Avalanche. His experience and versatility make him an ideal candidate for the Finnish team. Meanwhile, Joel Kiviranta is another player to watch. While he has had a solid season, his offensive output does not match last year’s level, making his selection less certain. Prominent Finnish broadcaster Antti Mäkinen has included Kiviranta in his projected roster, indicating he has support in the hockey community.
In Czechia, Ivan Ivan faces a challenging path to Olympic selection. With only ten Czech forwards having played more than six games in the NHL this season, Ivan’s chances are slim. His performance in the AHL could bolster his case, but his ability to compete defensively at the NHL level might offer him a glimmer of hope.
As the roster announcements approach, anticipation builds around which Avalanche players will don their national colors in February 2026. The blend of established stars and emerging talents promises to create a dynamic Olympic tournament, showcasing the best of international ice hockey. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the final teams are unveiled.
