The Edmonton Oilers are very active in Milan, Italy, where captain Connor McDavid and alternate captain Leon Draisaitl are dominating the headlines at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Captain McDavid’s Dominance & The “Torch Pass”
Wearing the “A” for Team Canada, Connor McDavid is leading the tournament in scoring with nine points in just three preliminary games (Canada went undefeated).
There is a heavy focus on the dynamic between McDavid and Sidney Crosby. Media outlets are framing this as the official “passing of the torch,” highlighted by moments like Crosby allowing McDavid to step onto the ice last—a spot usually reserved for the team’s singular leader.
McDavid had a massive 3-point game against Czechia and continued to score at will against France (10-2 win). He is centering Canada’s top line and looking unstoppable.
Draisaitl & Germany’s Uphill Battle
Leon Draisaitl is captaining Team Germany and served as the country’s flagbearer at the Opening Ceremony. Unlike Canada, Germany has had a rocky road in the group stage (losses to USA and Latvia).
Germany faces a “do-or-die” qualification game against France on Tuesday, Feb 17. If they lose, Draisaitl’s Olympics are over. Draisaitl is playing alongside Oilers rookie/prospect Josh Samanski, giving Edmonton fans a glimpse of a potential future NHL duo.
The “Rested” Stars
While McDavid and Draisaitl are exerting themselves in high-pressure games, a major storyline back in Edmonton is the rest advantage for key players who were snubbed or left off Olympic rosters.
Zach Hyman & Evan Bouchard: Both were left off Team Canada despite their elite offensive ability.
Mattias Ekholm: Was left off Team Sweden in favor of younger options (including former Oiler Philip Broberg).
These key contributors get a full two weeks of rest to heal minor injuries, which could give the Oilers a significant physical advantage over tired opponents when the season resumes on Feb. 25.
Related – Guide to the 2026 Winter Olympics Men’s Hockey Tournament
| Date | Event / Matchup | Time (ET) | Notes |
| Tue, Feb 17 | Germany vs. France | 6:10 AM | Qualification Round: Draisaitl & Samanski (GER) face elimination. |
| Wed, Feb 18 | Quarterfinals | TBD | Canada plays the winner of Czechia/Denmark. Germany (if they win Tue) would play Slovakia. |
| Fri, Feb 20 | Semifinals | TBD | Potential for Canada vs. Sweden matchup. |
| Sat, Feb 21 | Bronze Medal Game | 2:40 PM | — |
| Sun, Feb 22 | Gold Medal Game | 8:10 AM | The final event of the Winter Olympics. |
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