NHL teams face uncertain Olympics timeline for Team USA stars

Team USA men’s hockey stars will be celebrating its 2026 Winter Olympics gold medal for a long time to come, but the NHL might have a bit of an issue when it comes to its top players returning to the league.

Fresh off their stunning win over Canada in Sunday’s Olympic gold medal game, NHL teams are now wary of how long their top stars might be out.

NHL clubs reportedly have big concerns about Team USA Olympic stars needing extra rest. However, the timing of the Milan Cortina Games certainly doesn’t benefit NHL teams ahead of the playoff push.

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It’s unclear whether Team USA players will be back to join their clubs in time for when the NHL resumes. pic.twitter.com/IhikfbLg7r

— TSN (@TSN_Sports) February 23, 2026

Team USA stars like game-winning goal scorer Jack Hughes and goaltender Connor Hellebuyck are some of the American players that will be pivotal for the NHL stretch run.

Meanwhile, American captain Auston Matthews is another name to watch as the Toronto Maple Leafs look to get their biggest star back in action. NHL games resume Wednesday for many franchises.

However, Team USA will still be in party mode Monday as the team stays in Miami to celebrate at popular nightclub E11even.

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USA players Auston Matthews and Connor Hellebuyck celebrate in the men’s hockey gold medal game during the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

The American players that captured gold in Italy even received a surprise call from president Donald Trump. The U.S. president asked the Olympic champions to visit the White House after their memorable win against Canada.

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