Return of NHL players to the Olympic stage has added a new layer of excitement to the Milano-Cortina Winter Games, and the Toronto Maple Leafs will be prominently represented.
Three of the franchise’s key contributors — captain Auston Matthews, elite winger William Nylander, and veteran defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson — are set to compete for their respective national teams.
Their involvement not only underscores Toronto’s depth of talent but also places the organization at the heart of the international hockey narrative.
With each player expected to hold pivotal roles for their countries, the Olympic tournament offers a major platform for these Leafs stars to elevate their global standing while chasing medal success.
Auston Matthews leading Team USA’s gold pursuit
Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews enters the Olympics as one of Team USA’s most influential players. Having already captained the United States during the 4 Nations Face-Off, Matthews brings proven leadership and offensive firepower into the tournament.
His ability to produce in high-pressure situations will be vital for an American squad widely considered among the favorites.
Matthews is projected to center the United States’ second forward line alongside Clayton Keller and Jake Guentzel. In addition to his even-strength responsibilities, he is expected to feature prominently on the team’s top power-play unit. This dual role highlights his offensive importance as Team USA seeks to secure a gold-medal run.
Competing in Group C, the United States will open its Olympic campaign against Latvia on February 12 before facing Denmark and Germany in the preliminary round.
Avoiding Canada early in the tournament could give Matthews and his team an advantageous pathway toward the knockout stages.
William Nylander driving Sweden’s offensive attack
William Nylander heads into the Olympics in excellent form, leading Toronto Maple Leafs in scoring with 52 points in just 40 appearances this season. Representing Sweden, Nylander is expected to be a central offensive catalyst for Tre Kronor.
The dynamic winger is set to play on Sweden’s top forward line alongside center Mika Zibanejad and Jesper Bratt. Like Matthews, Nylander will also operate on his national team’s primary power-play unit, reinforcing his importance in Sweden’s scoring structure.
Sweden enters the tournament as one of the strongest medal contenders, boasting the third-best odds behind Canada and the United States.
Tre Kronor begins its campaign in Group B, facing Italy, Finland, and Slovakia in the preliminary stage. With Nylander spearheading the attack, Sweden’s offensive consistency could be a decisive factor in their medal push.
Oliver Ekman-Larsson anchoring Sweden’s defensive core
Veteran defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson adds experience and versatility to Sweden’s blue line. Widely regarded as Toronto’s top defenseman during the 2025–26 campaign, Ekman-Larsson is expected to skate on Sweden’s offensive third defensive pairing alongside Rasmus Andersson.
Beyond his primary pairing duties, Ekman-Larsson may also be utilized higher in the lineup when tactical adjustments are required. His ability to contribute offensively while maintaining defensive stability offers Sweden valuable flexibility throughout the tournament.
With Matthews leading Team USA and Nylander and Ekman-Larsson strengthening Sweden’s lineup, Toronto Maple Leafs are well positioned to have a meaningful impact on the Olympic tournament.