NHLers will be participating in the 2026 and 2030 Winter Olympics.
It is official: NHL players will return to the Winter Olympics in 2026 and 2030. The last time NHLers were at the Olympics was in 2014 when 31 WHL alumni participated in the tournament. While 2030 is still six years away, here is a look at some current WHLers who could represent their country in France.
Canada
Team Canada's 2030 Olympic team could feature multiple current WHL players. Some names that stand out right away are Nate Danielson, Conor Geekie, Denton Mateychuk, Fraser Minten and Matthew Savoie, who have all played impactful roles for Team Canada at the junior level. Players like Andrew Cristal, Jagger Firkus and Riley Heidt will also be in the conversation alongside Gavin McKenna, who, in six years, should be dominating the NHL as a 22-year-old. Whether current or former, WHLers should play a massive role for Canada in 2030.
Czechia
There could be quite a few players in the WHL that suit up for Czechia in 2030. Drafted defensive prospects Jakub Dvorak and Marek Alscher lead the way, while Ondrej Becher and Gabriel Szturc could be in the discussion for the forward group. Others include Adam Jecho and Maxmilian Curran, who should hear their names called at the 2024 NHL Draft, while Jan Špunar could be included in the goaltending group if he can transition his stellar WHL play to the pro level.
Finland
A projected second-round pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, Julius Miettinen, should be considered for Team Finland in 2030. A big center who has the potential to develop into a solid power forward, he could play a role in Finland's bottom six at the Olympics. He has already represented his country at multiple tournaments and could add Olympian to his resume in 2030.
Slovakia
Based on his play over the last two years, Samuel Honzek should play a significant role for Slovakia in 2030. The Calgary Flames' first-rounder has already captured a Silver Medal for his country and may even be considered for the 2026 team. One of the best two-way forwards currently in the WHL, he should be a fixture in Slovakia's top six for years to come.
Switzerland
Leo Braillard will be a name to watch over the next few years. The draft-eligible forward has performed well whenever he has the chance to play for Switzerland and was named one of the top three players for his country at the 2023 U18s. A point-per-game player at the WHL level, he could be a key contributor for Team Switzerland in the future.
Sweden
Washington Capitals' third-rounder Alexander Suzdalev will be one to watch for Team Sweden in 2030. Named to the CHL All-Rookie Team in 2023, he has already won a Gold for Sweden and has represented them over 20 times att different levels. A highly skilled player who has excelled at the WHL level, there is no doubt that he has a bright future ahead.
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