Dalibor Dvorsky has emerged as a key scorer for Slovakia, tallying six points to help his team reach the men's hockey semifinals at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Meanwhile, Mitch Marner scored the overtime winner and Jordan Binnington made crucial saves to propel Canada forward. Both teams prepare for challenging semifinal matchups on Friday.
The men's hockey tournament at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 has showcased impressive performances from NHL players as teams advance to the semifinals. Slovakia, an underdog, faces Team USA at Santaguilia Arena on Friday at 3:10 p.m. ET, while Canada takes on Finland at 10:40 a.m. ET.
St. Louis Blues forward Dalibor Dvorsky, a 20-year-old rookie, has recorded three goals and three assists in four games, the highest points total by an NHL rookie in an Olympic tournament featuring NHL participants. This surpasses previous marks set by Alex Ovechkin in 2006 and Sami Vatanen and Olli Maatta in 2014, each with five points. Dvorsky's contributions include instinctive positioning and a strong NHL shot, as noted by Slovakia defenseman Simon Nemec. "He's shown that throughout this tournament," Nemec said.
Dvorsky emphasized team play after Thursday's optional practice: "I try to be good defensively too, a good two-way center. I try to shoot as much as I can, set up my teammates too." Hometown friend and Flames forward Martin Pospisil praised his composure: "He is something special and I am happy that he is showing it." Lightning defenseman Erik Cernak highlighted Dvorsky's overall game, including face-offs, while Blues teammate Colton Parayko noted his preparation.
For Canada, Toronto Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner delivered in the quarterfinal against Czechia, scoring the overtime winner on a backhand after a drop pass from Macklin Celebrini. The game, tied 3-3, went to extra time in a thrilling quarterfinal day where three of four matches reached overtime. Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington was pivotal with key saves in the third period and overtime, securing the victory.
Two-time Olympic gold medalist Martin Brodeur, now with the New Jersey Devils, lauded their pressure performances. On Marner: "He's so deceiving. You didn't know if he would try to skate through those three defenders." On Binnington: "History shows us he rises to the occasion in the biggest moments." Brodeur anticipates a physical semifinal against Finland, drawing parallels to Canada's 2002 quarterfinal grind.
Dvorsky plans to carry his Olympic confidence back to the Blues, where he has 15 points in 47 games this season. Both players prioritize the immediate games ahead.
