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Ryan S. Clark
Multiple Authors
After two matches in the 2026 Olympic men’s hockey tournament, Canada’s gold-medal aspirations are intact with two decisive wins, achieving a total score of 10-1.
Following the 5-0 victory against Czechia, the Canadians achieved a 5-1 triumph over Switzerland the next day.
Emerging talent Macklin Celebrini netted his second goal of the Olympics, supported by two well-known teammates who also contributed on the scoresheet.
This recap provides insights into Canada’s performance, highlighting the standout player of the game, key takeaways, and a significant question as they prepare for their final group match against France.
Takeaway 1: Canada had a Big Mac, and it’s now super-sized
We’ve witnessed nightly action with Nathan MacKinnon and Connor McDavid, engaging in a rivalry that has sparked endless debates over who is the best player globally. importantly, defenseman Cale Makar is often mentioned in this discourse.
Enter Macklin Celebrini into this elite group.
The inclusion of these three players is part of the reason Canada was favored to secure gold, and thus far, nothing changes that narrative.
Coach Jon Cooper started Celebrini and McDavid on the top line, with MacKinnon playing as the second-line center. This trio collaborated effectively in the first period—resulting in a goal from McDavid—and continued their success, with Celebrini scoring and MacKinnon also finding the net in the third period.
CONNOR MCDAVID. His first career Olympic goal.
📺 #WinterOlympics on Peacock pic.twitter.com/XlLtMF7vyy
— NBC Olympics & Paralympics (@NBCOlympics) February 13, 2026
While the goals are the headline, what enhances this line’s prowess is their defensive capabilities. Both MacKinnon and McDavid have proven themselves as two-way centers in crucial moments. Celebrini, lauded for his dual-threat ability, adds to their strength. Together, they exemplify a level of ambition reminiscent of biblical tales.
Takeaway 2: Is defeating Switzerland a bigger feat than beating Czechia?
Assessing tournament hockey is tricky due to the limited number of games. Consider Canada’s first two matches and how they uniquely reflect on the team.
The 5-0 victory against Czechia was both anticipated and surprising, especially considering that Czechia boasts 10 NHL players, including standout talents like Lukas Dostal, Martin Necas, and David Pastrnak. but, questions about Canada’s performance arose when Czechia’s earlier match saw them blow a two-goal lead, barely edging past France in a 6-3 win.
France is the lowest-ranked team in Canada’s group, second only to Olympic host Italy. Switzerland kicked off their medal chase with a convincing 4-0 victory against France, featuring notable performances from players like Timo Meier and J.J. Moser. With 10 NHL players on their roster, including Kevin Fiala, Roman Josi, and Nino Niederreiter, the Swiss pose a serious challenge for medal contention.
This context underscores Switzerland’s potential to be a formidable rival. They started the third period down by two goals, yet Canada displayed determination across all zones, extending their lead while keeping the Swiss at bay. Quite impressive.
Takeaway 3: Depth also shone through
Canada’s Olympic opener featured five different goal scorers against Czechia, a trend that continued in their match against Switzerland with another five unique scorers: Thomas Harley, Sidney Crosby, Celebrini, MacKinnon, and McDavid.
This many contributions underscore Canada’s standing as one of the tournament’s deepest teams. Players like Mitch Marner, who scored against Czechia, and Tom Wilson, who also found the net, add to a roster where a dozen players have tallied points in the first two games.
plus, Travis Sanheim stepped up in place of injured Josh Morrissey, helping maintain defensive continuity, while Logan Thompson made his debut in goal, stopping 24 of 25 shots faced, after Jordan Binnington played the previous game.
Arguments can be made for McDavid earning recognition here, and that’s entirely valid, given his three points and his status as one of the sport’s top players.
but, MacKinnon earns this spot due to how his addition to the top line with Celebrini and McDavid has elevated an already potent team. He started with a goal against Czechia but excelled further in his move to the first unit, achieving a three-point game in a commanding victory.
Big question: What adjustments will Canada consider against France?
Canada will take Saturday to regroup and strategize combinations for their final group game against France.
Scoring 10 goals and securing two wins sharply contrasts with a team that has lost both of its initial matches, reinforcing the notion that Canada is likely to finish group play undefeated. It’s conceivable they may rest players while providing opportunities for others, like Seth Jarvis, who stepped in for Brad Marchand against Switzerland.
Overall team grade: A
This might seem exaggerated, but this could have been the most impressive performance by any men’s team in the Olympics so far, considering various factors.
Switzerland remained within two goals entering the third period and had moments where they could’ve narrowed the gap. Canada, however, steadily found the net to pull away. Their commitment to stymieing Swiss scoring chances was remarkable.
When factoring in what appears to be a newly effective first line, the contributions from the entire roster, and the win against a potential medal contender, this could serve as a prototype for Canada’s journey toward gold in this tournament.
