Connor McDavid experienced the essence of being an Olympian as he interacted with Canada’s diverse hockey team. The Edmonton Oilers’ leader was one of 92 NHL, women’s, and Para hockey athletes gathered in Calgary for a three-day orientation camp in preparation for the 2026 Winter Games in Milan and Cortina, Italy.
Reflecting on the experience, McDavid emphasized the significance of unity and being part of something larger than individual club teams. Alongside stars like Sidney Crosby, Sam Reinhart, Nathan McKinnon, Brayden Point, and Cale Makar, McDavid was among the first players named to Canada’s men’s team for the upcoming Olympics.
A total of 36 NHL players participated in the camp, vying for spots on the 25-man Olympic roster set to be announced in early January. The return of NHL players to the Olympic stage marks a significant comeback after missing the previous two Winter Games.
With only Crosby and Drew Doughty boasting previous Olympic experience, the camp represented uncharted territory for many male athletes, as noted by Hockey Canada’s Scott Salmond. Crosby, who played crucial roles in Canada’s gold medal victories in 2010 and 2014, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity and the motivation it brings.
For younger players like Reinhart and McDavid, who missed the chance to witness Crosby’s heroics in 2010 as teenagers, the upcoming Olympics hold special significance. Having tasted success at the 4 Nations Face-Off earlier, McDavid anticipates the level of competition at the Olympics to be even more intense.
Looking ahead to the Olympics in February and the NHL playoffs thereafter, McDavid aims to deliver peak performances. Despite the absence of on-ice sessions during the orientation camp, the preparation and understanding of the Olympic environment are deemed crucial by Hockey Canada.
As the athletes familiarize themselves with the upcoming challenges, they acknowledge the elite skill level and speed they will face at the Olympics. The anticipation is high for a competitive and fast-paced tournament, building on the groundwork laid during the orientation camp.