Following Friday's announcement of the U.S. men's roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics—largely carrying over the 4 Nations Face-Off team—high-profile omissions like Jason Robertson sparked disappointment, while newcomer Brock Nelson honors a family Olympic legacy. Selections prioritize physicality and defense over pure scoring.
The roster unveiled by USA Hockey on Friday retains most players from the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off squad that lost to Canada in overtime, with additions including defenseman Seth Jones (Florida Panthers), forwards Clayton Keller (St. Louis Blues) and Tage Thompson (Buffalo Sabres). Minnesota Wild defenseman Quinn Hughes returns after injury, while New York Rangers' Chris Kreider and Adam Fox were among those dropped.
High-scoring Dallas Stars winger Jason Robertson (48 points in 41 games, tops among U.S.-born NHLers) was a notable snub. 'I thought that this year was different than last year,' Robertson said after Saturday's practice. 'Obviously last year I didn’t think I was good enough. Now I think I [am] and it’s their choice.' Stars coach Glen Gulutzan voiced surprise: 'I would’ve loved to have seen him on it. He’s been so good for us.' Teammate and roster goalie Jake Oettinger called him 'the most pure goal-scorer I’ve ever played with' with high hockey IQ.
Other exclusions: Montreal Canadiens' Cole Caufield (40 points), Toronto Maple Leafs' Matthew Knies (36 points), and young Canadiens defenseman Lane Hutson (40 points). General manager Bill Guerin favored defensive reliability, selecting Rangers centers J.T. Miller and Vincent Trocheck over top scorers—five of the top 10 U.S. scorers missed out. Fox's finesse gave way to Jones' physicality.
Colorado Avalanche forward Brock Nelson, with 30 points (16G, 14A) in 39 games, earns his first Olympic call-up, extending family history: uncle Dave Christian (1980 gold), grandfather Bill (1960), great-uncle Roger (1964). 'It’s special,' Nelson said. 'Anytime you get to represent your country, I think it’s a great honor.' He adds penalty-kill strength.
The unchanged goaltending trio—Jeremy Swayman (Boston Bruins), Connor Hellebuyck (Winnipeg Jets), Oettinger—bolsters medal hopes after the 4 Nations near-miss.
