By Basil Stroh

 

NHL Public Relations

 

 

 

Sidney Crosby, F, Pittsburgh Penguins (3rd)

A member of the Triple Gold Club by winning the Stanley Cup (3x), Olympic gold (2x) and World Championship (2015), Crosby twice represented Canada in 2024-25. He first won a championship at the 4 Nations Face-Off – his fourth time captaining Canada to a title, following wins at the Winter Olympic Games (2014), World Championship (2015) and 2016 World Cup of Hockey – and then had 4-8—12 at the World Championship (8 GP). He also has both gold (2005) and silver (2004) medals from the World Junior Championship. In 2024-25, Crosby hit the 600-goal and 1,600-point milestones and became the first player in NHL history to average at least a point per game in 20 seasons (one more than Wayne Gretzky). He ranks ninth in career points (1,687) and 10th in assists (1,062) – part of a career that also includes three Stanley Cup wins, the Ted Lindsay Award (3x), Art Ross Trophy (2x), Conn Smythe Trophy (2x), Hart Trophy (2x) and Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy (2x).

 

Nathan MacKinnon, F, Colorado Avalanche (1st)

MacKinnon is coming off a 2024-25 campaign in which he was named tournament MVP after leading the 4 Nations Face-Off in goals (4 in 4 GP) to help Canada secure the championship, while posting his third consecutive 100-point NHL season to finish second in scoring (32-84—116 in 79 GP). MacKinnon is a two-time medalist with Canada at the World Championship (gold in 2015, silver in 2017) and played for Team North America at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey – where he scored an unforgettable overtime goal against Sweden in the team’s last game. Since then, MacKinnon has added six 90-plus point NHL seasons to his resume, including a 140-point campaign in 2023-24 that earned him his first Hart Trophy and Ted Lindsay Award, along with a Lady Byng Trophy (2019-20), Stanley Cup (2022) and Calder Trophy (2013-14).

 

Cale Makar, D, Colorado Avalanche (1st)

Makar had a career season in 2024-25 (30-62—92 in 80 GP), winning his second Norris Trophy (also 2021-22) after posting the first 30-goal campaign by an NHL defenseman since 2008-09, becoming the fifth blueliner in NHL history with consecutive 90-point campaigns as well as the fastest active defenseman to 100 career goals (362 GP) and 400 points (374 GP). He also secured a 4 Nations Face-Off title, adding to an international resume that includes a gold medal at the 2018 World Junior Championship. His NHL trophy case also includes the Stanley Cup (2022), Conn Smythe Trophy (2022) and Calder Trophy (2019-20). He is the Avalanche franchise leader in career goals, assists and points by a defenseman for both the regular season and playoffs.

 

Connor McDavid, F, Edmonton Oilers (1st)

McDavid scored the championship-clinching overtime goal at the 4 Nations Face-Off (where he tied Sidney Crosby for the team lead with five points in 4 GP), adding to titles won with Canada at the World Junior Championship (2015) and World Championship (2016). In 2024-25, he became the fourth-fastest player in NHL history to reach 1,000 career points (659 GP) and became the fourth player in League history with at least eight career 100-point seasons (26-74—100 in 67 GP). He is playing in his second straight Stanley Cup Final, looking to add a Cup to an NHL trophy case that features the Art Ross Trophy (5x), Ted Lindsay Award (4x), Hart Trophy (3x), Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy (2022-23) and Conn Smythe Trophy (2024).

 

Brayden Point, F, Tampa Bay Lightning (1st)

A two-time Stanley Cup champion known for his clutch scoring, Point finished sixth in the NHL with 42 goals in 2024-25 – his fourth career 40-goal season – and was a finalist for the Lady Byng Trophy. He has twice led the playoffs in goals (2020 & 2021, claiming back-to-back Cups) and is one of three 50-goal scorers in Lightning history, Point ranks among the top 10 on the all-time club lists for goals, assists and points during the regular season. He claimed a championship with Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Off, twice played at the World Junior Championship (gold in 2015, captain in 2016) and secured a silver medal at the 2017 World Championship.

 

Sam Reinhart, F, Florida Panthers (1st)

Reinhart’s banner 2023-24 season saw him score a career-high 57 goals in the regular season (joining Pavel Bure as the second 50-goal scorer in franchise history) and add 10 more tallies in the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, including the Cup-clinching goal. He followed that up in 2024-25 by winning a championship with Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Off, leading the Panthers in goals (39) and points (81) and helping them to a third straight Stanley Cup Final. The line of Reinhart, Sidney Crosby and Nathan MacKinnon combined for 13 points at the 4 Nations Face-Off (4 GP). Reinhart also won gold at the 2013 Under-18 World Championship (captain), 2015 World Junior Championship (co-led tournament in points; assist on gold medal-cinching goal) and 2016 World Championship.

 

 

Lukas Dostal, G, Anaheim Ducks (1st)

Dostal backstopped Czechia to a gold medal at the 2024 World Championship – the country’s first at the event since 2010 – when he posted a 6-2-0 record, including a 31-save shutout against Switzerland in the gold medal game in front of the home crowd in Prague. He was named Best Goaltender – the first Czech to receive the honor since Tomas Vokoun in 2005 – and to the tournament All-Star Team. Since then, he has set NHL career highs for games played and wins, posting a 23-23-7 record in 54 games with the Ducks in 2024-25. With experience at two World Championships (also bronze in 2022), two World Junior Championships (2019 & 2020) and the Under-18 World Championship (2018), Dostal also has a “goalie goal” on his resume – scored with the San Diego Gulls during the 2021-22 AHL season – less than two months after his NHL debut.

 

Radko Gudas, D, Anaheim Ducks (2nd)

The only current Czech captain in the NHL, Gudas has the most games played among active players from the country as well as the most penalty minutes among active defensemen from any country. He is set to participate in the Olympic Winter Games for the second time after skating in three contests in 2014. His father, Leo, played at the 1992 Olympics and was drafted by the Flames in 1990. Gudas wore an “A” for Czechia at the 2024 World Championship when they won the gold medal on home soil, pacing the team in time on ice during the clinching game. He also played in three other World Championships (2017, 2018 & 2019) and two World Junior Championships (2009 & 2010).

 

Martin Necas, F, Colorado Avalanche (1st)

Necas had a hot start to the 2024-25 season as he became the fastest player in Hurricanes history to 40 points in a season (26 GP), was named First Star of the Month in November and spent time as the NHL scoring leader. He was leading Carolina with 55 points when he was traded to Colorado in a blockbuster three-team deal Jan. 24, 2025. He helped Brno win consecutive Extraliga championships before becoming a full-time NHLer in 2019-20 and ranks second among Czech players in assists and points since then (trailing only David Pastrnak on each list). Internationally, he notched an assist in the gold medal game at the 2024 World Championship to help Czechia win the title on home soil. Overall, he has made three appearances at both the World Championship (also 2018 & 2025) and World Junior Championship (2017, 2018 & 2019; he led the 2018 tournament in assists and co-led in points, then captained Czechia in 2019).

 

Ondrej Palat, F, New Jersey Devils (2nd)

Palat (51) ranks second to only Jaromir Jagr (78) for career goals in the Stanley Cup Playoffs among Czech players, and is one of four Czechs all-time with at least 100 career playoff points. He and former teammate Jan Rutta are the only active Czechs with multiple Stanley Cup wins (both won with Tampa Bay in 2020 & 2021). Since his first full NHL season in 2013-14, Palat ranks second among active Czech players for assists and third in points. This will be Palat’s second Olympic Winter Games (4 GP in 2014) as he seeks to medal with his country for the second time following gold on home soil at the 2024 World Championship (3-3—6 in 10 GP).

 

David Pastrnak, F, Boston Bruins (1st)

The third highest-scoring Czech player in NHL history for both goals and points, Pastrnak quickly secured star status – placing himself among the top five goal scorers in the League since his first campaign (2014-15). His list of NHL achievements includes a Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy (2019-20), a 61-goal season (2022-23) and a swift ascent into seventh place on the Bruins’ all-time goals list (which includes 100-plus years of history). Internationally, he had an unforgettable sliding celebration on home soil in Prague after scoring what stood as the gold medal-clinching goal against Switzerland at the 2024 World Championship – Czechia’s first title at the event since 2010. “Pasta” has represented his country at six World Championships (also bronze in 2022), the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, three World Junior Championships, two Under-18 World Championships (silver in 2014).

 

Pavel Zacha, F, Boston Bruins (1st)
Another member of the gold medal-winning Czech team at the 2024 World Championship, Zacha skated on a line with David Pastrnak and Ondrej Palat at the event to capture his second medal with the country (also silver at 2014 Under-18 World Championship). Drafted out of the OHL in 2015 (6th overall to NJD), Zacha played at three Under-18 tournaments and three World Junior Championships on his way to the NHL. Since being traded to Boston in July 2022, Zacha has produced his three best seasons – including his only 20-goal campaigns (2022-23 & 2023-24) and a career-high 59 points in 2023-24.

 

 

Frederik Andersen, G, Carolina Hurricanes (1st)

A two-time William M. Jennings Trophy winner in the NHL, Andersen posted a 3-0-0 record at the 2024 Men’s Final Olympic Ice Hockey Qualification to help Denmark secure a spot at the Olympic Winter Games for the second time (also 2022). The only Danish goaltender in League history to play at least 30 games (and one of two from the country in League history), Andersen was drafted twice before making his way to North America to embark on his NHL career. He has represented Denmark at five World Championships and the 2008 World Junior Championship.

 

Oliver Bjorkstrand, F, Tampa Bay Lightning (1st)

Bjorkstrand tied for second in goals during the 2021 Men’s Final Olympic Ice Hockey Qualification tournament to help Denmark secure its first-ever trip to the Olympic Winter Games (2022). Bjorkstrand posted his fourth straight 40-point season in 2024-25 and hit the 20-goal mark for the sixth time, which trails only Nikolaj Ehlers (8) for the most among Danish players in League history. A recipient of top accolades in many leagues, include AHL playoff MVP honors in 2016, Bjorkstrand has represented his country at two World Championships, two World Junior Championships and the 2012 Under-18 World Championship.

 

Nikolaj Ehlers, F, Winnipeg Jets (1st)

Ehlers led all players in goals (5) and points (9) during the 2021 Men’s Final Olympic Ice Hockey Qualification tournament – including a goal in the clinching game – to help Denmark secure its first-ever trip to the Olympic Winter Games (2022). Ehlers (225-295—520) is the highest-scoring Danish player in NHL history for goals and points, and trails only Frans Nielsen (306) for career assists. His eight career 20-goal seasons in the NHL are the most among all Danish players. He scored three times in four games at the 2025 World Championship, including a tying goal in the final three minutes of regulation to rally Denmark past Canada in the quarterfinals (en route to their best-ever finish at the event, fourth place). That was his fifth time at the Worlds, to go along with an appearance at the 2015 World Junior Championship.

 

Lars Eller, F, Washington Capitals (1st)

The only Danish Stanley Cup champion in NHL history, Eller scored the Cup-clinching goal for Washington in 2018. He is all-time leader in games played among Danish players in both the regular season and playoffs, while ranking second in career regular-season goals and third in points among that cohort. He shared the team lead with four points at the 2024 Men’s Final Olympic Ice Hockey Qualification tournament to help Denmark secure its second Olympics berth (also 2022), and has represented his country at five World Championships and the 2008 World Junior Championship when he logged 3-3—6 while skating in front of Frederik Andersen.

 

Jesper Jensen Aabo, D (2nd)

The 33-year-old was Denmark’s captain at the 2025 Worlds, helping it to its best finish ever at the event (fourth). He has played for Denmark at each of the past 14 World Championships for a total of 92 games, and at the 2022 Olympics. Jensen Aabo has spent the past three seasons with EC-KAC of the ICE Hockey League, the top league in Austria. He has also played professionally in Germany, Sweden and Russia.

 

Jonas Rondbjerg, F, Vegas Golden Knights (1st)

The sixth draft pick in Golden Knights history and one of two picks from the 2017 class still with the club, Rondbjerg won an SHL championship with Växjö Lakers HC in 2017-18 before venturing to North America. He has split time between the NHL and AHL over the past four seasons, wearing an “A” for the Henderson Silver Knights in 2024-25. He was part of Denmark’s fourth-place entry at the 2025 World Championship and helped the nation secure its spot at the Olympic Winter Games, scoring once in three games at the 2024 Men’s Final Olympic Ice Hockey Qualification. He represented Denmark at four straight World Junior Championships from 2016 to 2019 (3-9—12 in 22 GP) and at the 2016 Under-18 World Championship.

 

 

Sebastian Aho, F, Carolina Hurricanes (1st)

Aho has scored at least 20 goals in each of his nine seasons, including a Carolina record five 30-goal campaigns. He ranks third in Hurricanes franchise history in goals, assists and points, and has led the team to playoff series victories in seven straight seasons (including three trips to the Conference Finals). In 2024-25, Aho paced Carolina in assists (45) and points (74). Internationally, Aho helped Finland secure a gold medal on home soil at the 2016 World Junior Championship (alongside the likes of Mikko Rantanen) and has since represented his country at three World Championships, the 2016 World Cup of Hockey and 4 Nations Face-Off.

 

Aleksander Barkov, F, Florida Panthers (2nd)

Seeking a Stanley Cup repeat in his third straight trip to the Final, Barkov is aiming to become the first European player in NHL history to captain multiple Cup winners – one year after he became the first Finnish player to captain a Stanley Cup champion. Barkov shared the team lead with 22 points in the 2024 postseason, including a franchise record-tying four game-winning goals. In 2024-25, Barkov captained Finland at the 4 Nations Face-Off and secured his second straight Selke Trophy (third overall) as well as the King Clancy Memorial Trophy. Barkov is one of seven players in NHL history to win both the Selke and Stanley Cup in the same season (countryman Jere Lehtinen is also on that list) and can become the second player to achieve that feat twice (Bob Gainey: 1978-79 & 1977-78). Barkov has represented Finland at many other tournaments, including the Winter Olympic Games (bronze in 2014), World Championship (silver in 2016) and 2016 World Cup of Hockey.

 

Miro Heiskanen, D, Dallas Stars (2nd)

After representing Finland at the 2017 World Junior Championship, Heiskanen completed a rare trifecta in international play in 2018 by representing his country at the World Junior Championship, Winter Olympic Games and World Championship in the same season (all as an 18-year-old). He has since won a World Championship gold medal (2022), helped the Stars reach at least the Conference Finals four times in the past six seasons (including a run to the 2020 Final when he posted the highest playoff point total ever by a Finnish defenseman) and climbed into the top 10 in franchise history for career goals, assists and points by a defenseman. One of the first six players named to Finland’s roster for the 4 Nations Face-Off, Heiskanen missed the tournament due to injury. He is the highest-scoring Finnish defenseman since 2018-19 when he entered the NHL.

 

Esa Lindell, D, Dallas Stars (1st)

A two-time gold medalist with Finland, Lindell helped his country to titles at the 2014 World Junior Championship and 2022 World Championship, where he also has claimed a silver medal (2016). The gold medal in 2014 was secured alongside Juuse Saros, representing Finland’s first title at the event since 1998. His international resume also includes appearances with Finland at the 4 Nations Face-Off (where he was one of two Finnish defensemen with a goal) and at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey. In the NHL, Lindell own the best plus-minus rating by a defenseman in Stars franchise history and ranks among the top three in the League or goals, assists, points and time on ice per game by Finnish defensemen since his first full NHL season in 2016-17.

 

Mikko Rantanen, F, Dallas Stars (1st)

Rantanen is coming off an NHL season in which he played for three teams after high-profile trades four weeks apart – the second 100-point player in League history traded multiple times in one season (Paul Coffey in 1996-97) – before making history with his third-period hat trick in Game 7 against the Avalanche, with whom won a Stanley Cup (2022). In 2024-25, Rantanen (645 GP) became the third-fastest Finnish player in NHL history to record 700 career points, following Jari Kurri (483 GP) and Teemu Selanne (541 GP). That trio also are the only Finnish players in League history to record a 100-point season (all have at least two) or a 50-goal campaign. He ranks second behind Kurri for career NHL points-per-game by Finnish players. He has represented Finland at the 4 Nations Face-Off, World Junior Championship (2x) and World Championship (4x), winning World Junior gold on home soil in 2016 (captaining a squad loaded with future NHL stars) and silver at the Worlds a few months later.

 

Juuse Saros, G, Nashville Predators (1st)
Saros also was the lone goaltender among Finland’s first six players named to 4 Nations Face-Off rosters and started the tournament opener. He ended the 2024-25 campaign by representing Finland at the World Championship (4-2, .943 SV%, 1.67 GAA), his fourth appearance at the event and first since claiming silver in 2016. That was his second medal at the World Championship, following another silver won in 2014 – the same year he backstopped Finland to its first World Junior Championship gold in more than 15 years. His World Juniors performance secured a spot on the tournament All-Star Team. Saros was a Vezina Trophy finalist in 2021-22.

 

 

Yohann Auvitu, D (1st)

Auvitu has 58 games of NHL experience (5-8—13) with the Devils and Oilers, last playing in the League in 2017-18. He has played the past two seasons for HC Vitkovice Ridera in the Czech Extraliga, the top professional league in the country. The 35-year-old from Ivry-sur-Seine has represented France in 11 World Championships and two Olympic qualifiers.

 

Pierre-Edouard Bellemare, F (1st)

His 700 NHL games played are the most by a player from France and his 138 points rank second. The 40-year-old from Le Blanc-Mesnil last played in the NHL in 2023-24, when he had seven points in 40 games for the Kraken. Bellemare had 28 points in 34 games in 2024-25 for HC Ajoie in the National League, the top league in Switzerland. He has played in the World Championships 12 times, the Olympic qualifiers six times and skated for Team Europe at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey.

 

Jules Boscq, D (1st)

The 23-year-old, a Bordeaux native, had one assist in seven games for France at the 2025 World Championship and also played at the 2023 tournament. Boscq has spent the past two seasons playing professionally for Iowa of the ECHL and had 29 points in 65 games in 2024-25. He has also played for Anglet and Bordeaux in Ligue Magnus, the top men’s ice hockey division in France.

 

Hugo Gallet, D (1st)

The 27-year-old represented France at the World Championship six times, including as captain this year. He has also played in two Olympic qualifiers. Gallet, a native of Amiens, had seven points (three goals, four assists) in 50 games in 2024-25 for Tappara of Liiga, the top professional league in Finland.

 

Jordann Perret, F (1st)

Perrett had four points in six games for France at the 2025 World Championship and has played in the event eight times. He also has played in three Olympic qualifiers. The 30-year-old from Autrans has spent the past six seasons playing for Mountfield HK of the Czech Extraliga, the highest men’s hockey league in the country, and had 20 points in 45 games in 2024-25 as an alternate captain.

 

Alexandre Texier, F, St. Louis Blues (1st)

The lone current NHL player on the French preliminary roster, Texier led the 2024 Men’s Final Olympic Ice Hockey Qualification in goals (3; tied) and points (6) and skated with them at the 2025 World Championship (0-3—3 in 5 GP). Overall, he has played for France at five World Championships and at the Olympic qualifiers twice.

 

 

Leon Draisaitl, F, Edmonton Oilers (1st)

Playing in the Stanley Cup Final for a second straight year, Draisaitl is the highest-scoring German player in NHL history – with nearly double the points of the next highest scorer. Draisaitl held at least a share of the League lead in goals every day from Dec. 5 onward during the 2024-25 season en route to securing his first Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy. That win built out an NHL trophy case that already included the Art Ross Trophy, Hart Trophy and Ted Lindsay Award, all claimed in 2019-20. He also finished second in voting for the 2024-25 Hart Trophy, following his fourth consecutive and sixth career 100-point season (and fourth 50-goal campaign). Draisaitl was part of the German roster that helped the team qualify for the 2018 Winter Olympic Games, sharing the tournament lead with five points at the 2017 Men’s Final Olympic Ice Hockey Qualification. He is seeking his first international medal, following appearances at the World Championship (5x), World Junior Championship (2x), Under-18 World Championship (2x) and 2016 World Cup of Hockey (with Team Europe). His father, Peter, participated in the Winter Olympic Games in 1988, 1992 and 1998.

 

Philipp Grubauer, G, Seattle Kraken (1st)

Grubauer (2018) is the only German goaltender to win the Stanley Cup and one of five players from the country to win overall (based on nationality), following Tom Kuhnhackl (2x), Nico Sturm, Dennis Seidenberg and Uwe Krupp. He ranks second in NHL history for games played and wins among German goaltenders, behind Olie Kolzig on each list, and is one of three German nationals to earn an NHL win (also Thomas Greiss, his teammate with Team Europe at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey). Grubauer had a perfect 3-0-0 record at the 2017 Men’s Final Olympic Ice Hockey Qualification to help Germany earn qualification in the 2018 Winter Olympic Games. His international resume also includes six stops at the World Championship, two at the World Junior Championship and one at the Under-18 World Championship.

 

Lukas Reichel, F, Chicago Blackhawks (1st)

Reichel was the second of two Germans picked in Round 1 of the 2020 NHL Draft, going 17th overall to Chicago after Tim Stützle was picked at No. 3 (OTT) – the first time multiple Germans were picked in the opening round. He won a DEL championship with Eisbären Berlin in 2020-21 and made his NHL debut the next season. Entering his fifth NHL season and second as a full-time NHLer, Reichel had career highs in games played (70), goals (8), assists (14) and points (22) in 2024-25 before playing at the his fourth World Championship. His father, Martin (2002), and uncle, Robert (1998 & 2002), both represented Germany at the Winter Olympic Games.

 

Moritz Seider, D, Detroit Red Wings (1st)

Seider helped Germany to its first-ever final at the World Championship in 2023, securing a silver medal for the country in one of his five appearances at the event. In a dramatic overtime win against USA in the semifinals at that tournament, Seider was on the ice for all four German goals and finished the contest with a plus-two rating and a game-high 27:04 of ice time. The only German defenseman ever picked in Round 1 of the NHL Draft (6th overall in 2019), Seider has burst onto the NHL scene with 30-plus assists and 40-plus points in each of his first four seasons. In 2021-22 he became the first German national to win the Calder Trophy.

 

Nico Sturm, F, Florida Panthers (1st)

Part of the Panthers roster currently competing in the Stanley Cup Final, Sturm already is one of five German nationals to win the Stanley Cup (2022 COL) and can become the first from the nation to win with multiple clubs (Tom Kuhnhackl is the only two-time winner from Germany, claiming both with Pittsburgh). Sturm played a key role in securing a silver medal at the 2023 World Championship, sharing the team lead with six goals and notching an assist in Germany’s dramatic semifinal win against USA (his first of two appearances at the event, also 2024). He also represented his country at the 2015 World Junior Championship before heading to North America where he went on to play three seasons in the NCAA at Clarkson University (including one as captain).

 

Tim Stützle, F, Ottawa Senators (1st)

Already the fourth-highest German goal scorer in NHL history and fifth to record 300-plus points, Stützle is coming off his third consecutive 70-point season – just the second German player to achieve that feat after Leon Draisaitl. Stützle also has his name next to Draisaitl as the highest-selected German nationals in NHL Draft history, joining him at No. 3 overall in 2020 just two weeks after Draisaitl became the first German to win the Hart Trophy in 2019-20. He captained Germany to the playoff round for the first time at the 2021 World Junior Championship, collecting 5-5—10 in five games to secured Best Forward honors. It was his second appearance at that tournament (also 2020) and he has since played at two World Championships.

 

 

Damian Clara, G, Anaheim Ducks (1st)

A 20-year-old goalie from Brunico, Clara was selected by the Ducks in the second round (No. 60) of the 2023 NHL Draft. He was 0-1 with a 3.15 goals-against average and an .898 save percentage in two games for San Diego of the AHL in 2024-25 after being assigned there from Karpat of Finland’s Liiga on April 4.

 

Diego Kostner, F (1st)

A native of Bressanone, the 32-year-old has played in international competitions since 2009. Kostner has played 15 seasons in Switzerland’s National League, most recently with three points in 42 games for HC Ambri-Piotta last season.

 

Thomas Larkin, D (1st)

The 34-year-old was born in London but raised in Cocquio-Trevisago with a father from Boston and a mother from Milan. Larkin was selected by the Blue Jackets in the fifth round (No. 137) of the 2009 NHL Draft and played two seasons with Springfield of the AHL from 2013-15, where he had 20 points in 88 games.

 

Daniel Mantenuto, F (1st)

From Thornhill, Ont., the 27-year-old competes internationally for Italy. He played four seasons at Robert Morris University, located just outside of Pittsburgh, from 2016-20 and has played for HC Bozen-Bolzano of the ICE Hockey League since 2022-23. He had 17 points in 48 games this season.

 

Tommy Purdeller, F (1st)

A 21-year-old from Brunico, the forward played two seasons with Peterborough of the OHL with 65 points (23 goals, 42 assists) in 116 games from 2022-24 before playing for HC Pustertal Wolfe of the ICE Hockey League in 2024-25.

 

Luca Zanatta, D (1st)

The 34-year-old from Pieve di Cadore began his international career in 2014 and played seven games for Italy in the 2017 IIHF World Championship. He had 18 points for HC Pustertal Wolfe in 2024-25.

 

 

Rodrigo Abols, F, Philadelphia Flyers (2nd)
Ahead of his first NHL season in 2024-25, Abols tallied 2-2—4 for Latvia at the 2024 Men’s Final Olympic Ice Hockey Qualification in his hometown of Riga to help his country secure a spot in the 2026 Olympic Winter Games. Abols tallied the game-winning goal against France in the tournament finale last September to secure Latvia’s 3-0-0 record and a first-place finish in the qualifying event. Abols also helped Latvia qualify for the 2022 Olympics and then tallied 1-1—2 in four games at the tournament in Beijing. He has played at the World Championship nine times, including in 2023 when the country defeated USA in the bronze medal game to claim its first-ever medal at the event. He scored his first NHL goal in February.

Uvis ⁠Balinskis, D, Florida Panthers (2nd)

Balinskis is with the Panthers in the Stanley Cup Final for the second time in as many NHL seasons, aiming to cap the 2024-25 campaign with a championship after starting it by helping Latvia secure its spot in the 2026 Olympic Winter Games. Balinskis paced Latvian defensemen and shared the team lead with 1-3—4 in three games at the 2024 Men’s Final Olympic Ice Hockey Qualification, his second time helping his country secure qualification (also 2022). He has played at the World Championship five times, including in 2023 when the country defeated USA in the bronze medal game to claim its first-ever medal at the event. He skated in at least one game in each of the first three rounds of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs (1-0—1 in 5 GP).

 

Teddy Blueger, F, Vancouver Canucks (1st)

Blueger is the fourth highest-scoring Latvian player in NHL history, behind Sandis Ozolinsh, Sergei Zholtok and fellow 2026 Olympian Zemgus Girgensons. He is set to make his Winter Olympic Games debut after helping his country qualify for the 2022 tournament (when he tallied 2-2—4 in three games as captain during the 2021 Men’s Final Olympic Ice Hockey Qualification). He has represented Lativa at the World Championship three times, twice at the World Junior Championship and once at the Under-18 World Championship. Before turning pro, Blueger played three seasons at Shattuck-St. Mary’s, a prep school in Minnesota, and four seasons at Minnesota State University. Blueger won the Stanley Cup with Vegas in 2023.

 

Zemgus Girgensons, F, Tampa Bay Lightning (2nd)

The only Latvian ever to be selected in Round 1 of the NHL Draft (14th overall in 2012; BUF), Girgensons is the highest-scoring active player from the country and ranks third all-time behind Sandis Ozolinsh and Sergei Zholtok. He played alongside Ozolinsh and tallied 1-1—2 at the 2014 Winter Olympic Games and has since skated in three Olympic qualifying tournaments – helping secure a spot in the Games twice (2022 and 2026). He has played in the World Championship four times and won the USHL Clark Cup in 2010-11 with the Dubuque Fighting Saints, finishing second on the team in goals behind Johnny Gaudreau.

 

Elvis Merzlikins, G, Columbus Blue Jackets (1st)

The highest-drafted Latvian goaltender to be selected in the NHL Draft (76th overall in 2014), Merzlikins ranks second in games played and wins among the six netminders from the country to play in the NHL – behind only Arturs Irbe. Before breaking into the NHL in 2019-20, when he secured a spot on the NHL All-Rookie Team – Merzlikins twice won the Jacques Plante Trophy (2015-16 & 2017-18), awarded to the best goalie in Switzerland’s National League. He has represented Lativa at the World Championship six times, twice at the World Junior Championship and once at the Under-18 World Championship.

 

Arturs Silovs, G, Vancouver Canucks (1st)
Silovs backstopped Latvia to its only medal at a major tournament during his last international appearance, posting a 7-3-0 record at the 2023 World Championship while playing in all 10 of the team’s games – including six straight victories in his hometown of Riga to secure a spot in the semifinals. His 26-save effort against USA in the bronze medal game helped clinch an overtime victory and a third-place finish for Latvia. Silovs secured tournament MVP and Best Goaltender honors, as well as a spot on the All-Star Team. That high-pressure experience came in handy during the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs when, as a rookie with nine games of NHL experience, he was thrust into a starting role during the First Round and delivered by becoming the second goaltender in NHL history to secure his first career shutout (regular season or playoffs) in a series-clinching win. He is currently competing with the Abbotsford Canucks in the AHL Calder Cup Finals.

 

 

Erik Cernak, D, Tampa Bay Lightning (1st)

A two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Lightning, earning Cernak last represented Slovakia at the 2019 World Championship – his only appearance at that event. He played at the World Junior Championship four times, winning a bronze medal in 2015, and captained Slovakia at the 2014 Under-18 World Championship (his second trip to that tournament). In 2024-25, Cernak posted career highs for games played (76), assists (18) and points (21) and became the sixth Slovakian defenseman to reach 100 career NHL points.

 

Martin Fehérváry, D, Washington Capitals (1st)

Fehérváry moved to Sweden at age 14 to pursue his hockey career and a few years later was a second-round pick by Washington in the NHL Draft. He is coming off a career season in 2024-25, notching 20 assists and 25 points across 81 games for the Capitals. He has played at four World Championships, three World Junior Championships and two Under-18 World Championships.

 

Simon Nemec, D, New Jersey Devils (2nd)

When his name was called second overall in the 2022 NHL Draft, Nemec helped make history as he and Juraj Slafkovský became the first Slovakians and second pair of countrymen born outside North America to go first and second overall in the same draft. Overall, three Slovakians were picked in Round 1 that year, an NHL first. Nemec won a bronze medal alongside Slafkovský at the 2022 Winter Olympic Games, which marked Slovakia’s first-ever Olympic medal for ice hockey. He also has played at four World Championships, two World Junior Championships and helped Slovakia earn entry into the 2026 Olympic Winter Games during the 2024 Men’s Final Olympic Ice Hockey Qualification. During the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs, he became the second-youngest defenseman in NHL history to score a playoff overtime goal.

 

Martin Pospisil, F, Calgary Flames (1st)

Pospisil notched three assists at the 2024 Men’s Final Olympic Ice Hockey Qualification to help Slovakia secure entry into the 2026 Olympic Winter Games, including an assist on the game-winning goal that secured their spot. Pospisil led NHL rookies with a plus-14 rating in 2023-24 and totaled 8-16—24 in his first NHL season (63 GP), before improving upon his assist and point totals in 2024-25 (4-21—25 in 81 GP). He will seek his first international medal, following appearances at the 2024 World Championship, 2019 World Junior Championship and 2017 Under-18 World Championship.

 

Juraj Slafkovský, F, Montreal Canadiens (2nd)

The MVP of the last Winter Olympic Games men’s hockey tournament is headed back for a shot at another medal, with Slafkovský aiming to build upon his performance in 2022 when he helped Slovakia secure its first-ever Olympic medal for ice hockey. Slafkovský tallied 7-0—7 in seven games to lead all players in goals and points (tied), scoring twice in the bronze medal game against Sweden including the clinching goal. At the 2022 NHL Draft, he became the highest-drafted Slovakian player in history – going first overall to the Canadiens at the event held in Montreal. In 2024-25, he established career highs for assists (33) and points (51) before scoring twice during his first trip to the Stanley Cup Playoffs. His international resume also includes three appearances at the World Championship and one World Junior Championship.

 

Tomas Tatar, F, New Jersey Devils (2nd)

The highest-scoring active Slovakian player, Tatar has played 927 games for six teams over his 14-season NHL career and will participate in his second Winter Olympic Games (also 2014). He is a seven-time 20-goal scorer who won a silver medal with Slovakia at the 2012 World Championship – one of his seven appearances at that tournament. He also represented his country at two World Junior Championships – totaling 10-6—16 in 13 games in 2009 and 2010 – and played for Team Europe at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey (leading the team and sharing third in the tournament with three goals). He had one goal in three games at the 2024 Men’s Final Olympic Ice Hockey Qualification to help Slovakia secure its place at the Games in 2026.

 

 

Rasmus Dahlin, D, Buffalo Sabres (2nd)
During his first season as Sabres captain in 2024-25, Dahlin reached 300 career points and bested Erik Karlsson for the most points by a Swedish defenseman in NHL history before age 25. One of four Swedish captains in the NHL (also Victor Hedman, Gabriel Landeskog & Mikael Backlund), Dahlin has represented Sweden in each of the past two years – at the 4 Nations Face-Off in February and at the 2024 World Championship (bronze; 2-7—9 in 10 GP). Buffalo’s top scorer since entering the NHL, Dahlin also has a World Junior Championship silver (2018). At age 17, he was the youngest player on Sweden’s roster at the 2018 Winter Olympic Games and a few months later became the first Swedish defenseman picked No. 1 in the NHL Draft.

 

Victor Hedman, D, Tampa Bay Lightning (1st)
Hedman just completed his first season as an NHL captain, a campaign in which he became the first player in Lightning history to record 600 career assists and also wore the “C” for Sweden at the 4 Nations Face-Off. He is a two-time Stanley Cup champion (2020 & 2021) who has won the Norris Trophy (2017-18) and Conn Smythe Trophy (2020) – just the third Swedish player to be named playoff MVP, following Nicklas Lidstrom and Henrik Zetterberg. The longest-tenured player in Lightning history, Hedman has a lengthy international resume that includes medals at the World Junior Championship (silver in 2008 & 2009) and World Championship (gold in 2017 & bronze in 2010 & 2024). He also represented Sweden at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey.

 

Adrian Kempe, F, Los Angeles Kings (1st)
Kempe is coming off his second straight 70-point season and third 35-goal campaign, notching 35-38—73 in 2024-25 (81 GP) to come within two points of his career high set in 2023-24. He owns the only 40-goal campaign by a Kings player in the past 30 years (41 in 2022-23) and trails only Anze Kopitar for the most goals for the club since 2016-17 when he entered the NHL. Kempe scored in Sweden’s opening game at the 4 Nations Face-Off, has represented his country at four World Championships (gold in 2018, bronze in 2024; also 2019 & 2021) and was among Sweden’s top scorers at the World Junior Championship in both 2015 and 2016. His arrival in North America paid dividends immediately, with eight playoff goals at age 18 in 2015 to win the AHL’s Calder Cup.

 

Gabriel Landeskog, F, Colorado Avalanche (2nd)

Years of rehabilitation culminated in major milestones in 2024-25 when Landeskog made his AHL debut on a conditioning assignment April 11, and 12 days later when he played an NHL game for the first time in nearly three years – earns votes as a finalist for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy. Landeskog’s last contest before April was Colorado’s clinching win in the 2022 Stanley Cup Final that made him the second Swedish captain of a Cup champion (after Nicklas Lidstrom in 2008). He became the third captain in NHL history to return to his team after not playing in over 1,000 days, after Syl Apps and Sid Abel who both left their clubs to serve in the Canadian armed forces during World War II. This will mark Landeskog’s second sojourn to the Winter Olympic Games, following a silver medal finish in 2014 (0-1—1 in 6 GP). His resume also includes the Calder Trophy (2011-12), a World Championship gold (2017) and the Goldpucken award as the best Swedish hockey player (2022).

 

William Nylander, F, Toronto Maple Leafs (1st)
Nylander scored a career high 45 goals in 2024-25 to become the fourth player in Maple Leafs history with three consecutive 40-goal seasons, following up a 2023-24 campaign in which he posted a career best 98 points. After representing Sweden at the 4 Nations Face-Off, Nylander rejoined the Tre Kronor in May for his fourth World Championship. He scored once in three games and secured a bronze medal, adding to the Worlds gold he won in 2017 when he was named tournament MVP after co-leading in goals. At the 2019 World Championship, Nylander had 5-13—18 in eight games to set a Swedish record for assists at the event and post the highest point total for the country in more than 55 years. His father, Michael, played at two Winter Olympic Games (1998 & 2002; 1-2—3 in 8 GP) and won two World Championship gold medals (1992 & 2006) along with other international accolades.

Lucas Raymond, F, Detroit Red Wings (1st)
Raymond led Sweden in assists (3) and points (3; tied) at the 4 Nations Face-Off and then finished second in team scoring at the 2025 World Championship, totaling 5-6—11 in 10 games during his third appearance at the event (all consecutive). He scored in the bronze medal game against Denmark to help the secure Sweden’s second straight third-place finish at the Worlds. The 2024-25 season also saw Raymond (27-53—80 in 82 GP) top the Red Wings in points for a second straight campaign and pace the club in assists for the first time – setting career highs in both categories. His international resume also includes a medal from one of his two trips to the World Junior Championship (bronze in 2020; played in 2021) and an Under-18 World Championship gold in 2019.

 

 

Kevin Fiala, F, Los Angeles Kings (1st)

Switzerland has medaled four times at the World Championship over the past 71 years (all silver), and Fiala has been part of three of them – including in 2024 when he was named MVP, Best Forward and to the All-Star Team after sharing second in both goals (7) and points (13) despite missing two contests for the birth of his daughter. He followed Roman Josi (2013) as the second Swiss player to be named tournament MVP. A seven-time participant at the Worlds, Fiala also medaled in 2018 and 2025 – helping Switzerland to consecutive appearances in the gold medal game for the first time ever – and played at the World Junior Championship (2x) and Under-18 World Championship. Fiala is the highest-scoring Swiss forward in League history (488 points) and ranks second behind Josi among all skaters from the country. In 2024-25, he set a career high with 35 goals – his second 30-goal season (33 in 2021-22).

 

Nico Hischier, F, New Jersey Devils (1st)

Hischier captained Switzerland at the 2025 World Championship when the country reached the gold medal game for a second straight year – a first in the nation’s history. Overall, he has skated to two silver medals across six appearances at the World Championship (also 2024) and represented his country at two World Junior Championships and three Under-18 World Championships. The only Swiss player to be selected first overall in the NHL Draft (2017), Hischier is one of two captains from Switzerland in the NHL (also Roman Josi). His career points-per-game rate of 0.80 is the highest among Swiss players in League history. Hischier was a finalist for the Selke Trophy in 2022-23 and received the E.J. McGuire Award of Excellence in his draft year.

 

Roman Josi, D, Nashville Predators (2nd)

The only Swiss player to win an individual award presented for on-ice accolades in the NHL, Josi claimed the Norris Trophy in 2019-20 – the first of four straight seasons in which he led the Predators in scoring – and has been a finalist twice since (also 2021-22 & 2023-24). Josi is the highest scoring Swiss player in League history (724 points) and one of three defensemen all-time to lead his team in scoring in four straight seasons, following Erik Karlsson (5; 2013-14 to 2017-18 w/ OTT) and Denis Potvin (4; 1973-74 to 1976-77 w/ NYI). Josi has played for Switzerland at nine World Championships, helping to secure three of the four medals the country has won over the past 71 years (silver in 2013, 2018 and 2024). In 2013, he became the first Swiss player to claim MVP honors at the tournament (and was named Best Defenseman and to the All-Star Team) after leading the country to its first ever gold-medal game at the event. In 2024, he captained the club and led all defensemen in scoring (3-9—12 in 10 GP) to again earn Best Defenseman and All-Star Team honors (also 2013) – the only Swiss player to win multiple directorate awards at the Worlds. Josi is entering his ninth season as Nashville’s captain, among the longest current tenures in the NHL, ahead of his second Olympic Winter Games (also 2014). Josi also played for Team Europe at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey.

 

Timo Meier, F, New Jersey Devils (1st)

Meier is the only Swiss player in League history with three 30-goal seasons, holds the nation’s benchmark for single-season NHL goals (40 in 2022-23) and is one of three players from the country with at least 200 career NHL goals, along with Nino Niederriter and Kevin Fiala. He also is one of only a dozen European players in NHL history to score five goals in a game (Jan. 17, 2022), and the only Swiss player to do so. Meier has been part of four Swiss entries at the World Championship, claiming silver in 2018 and 2025. He also played at the World Junior Championship in 2015 and 2016 (captain), as well as the 2013 Under-18 World Championship.

 

Nino Niederreiter, F, Winnipeg Jets (2nd)

Niederreiter has the most goals and games played among Swiss players in NHL history, and after being selected fifth overall at the 2010 NHL Draft was the country’s highest draft pick until Nico Hischier went No. 1 in 2017. He has been part of all four Swiss rosters to medal at the World Championship over the past 71 years, claiming silver in 2013, 2018, 2024 and 2025. Overall, he has played at that event nine times, to go along with appearances World Junior Championship (2010 & 2011), Under-18 World Championship (2008 & 2009) and Olympic Winter Games (2014). Niederreiter also played for Team Europe at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey.

 

Jonas Siegenthaler, D, New Jersey Devils (1st)
A two-time medalist across five World Championship appearances (silver in 2024 and 2025), Siegenthaler is heading into his eighth NHL season and sixth with the Devils. Before heading to North America, Siegenthaler represented his country three times at both the World Junior Championship (2015, 2016 & 2017) and Under-18 World Championship (2013, 2014 & 2015).

 

 

Jack Eichel, F, Vegas Golden Knights (1st)

In 2024-25, Eichel set career highs and Golden Knights records for assists (66) and points (94) in a season – securing votes as a finalist for the Lady Byng Trophy, a career first. At the 4 Nations Face-Off, Eichel shared the tournament lead among forwards with four assists (4 GP). He won the Stanley Cup in 2023 during his first-ever appearance in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, tallying 26 points that year to become the fourth American in NHL history to be the outright leader in playoff scoring (first since Brett Hull in 2000). Eichel’s resume also includes three seasons as an NHL captain (w/ BUF), one as the NCAA leader in assists and points (2014-15; Hobey Baker Award) and trips to the 2016 World Cup of Hockey (Team North America), 2015 World Championship (bronze), 2015 World Junior Championship (captain) and Under-18 World Championship (silver in 2013, gold in 2014).

 

Quinn Hughes, D, Vancouver Canucks (1st)

Despite missing 14 games in 2024-25, Hughes led the Canucks in scoring for the first time in his career (16-60—76 in 68 GP), the second defenseman ever to do so (Paul Reinhart in 1989-90). Part of USA’s initial roster for the 4 Nations Face-Off, Hughes withdrew from the event due to injury. Even with his lengthy absence, Hughes finished top-three in defensive scoring for a third straight season and placed third in Norris Trophy voting (his second year as a finalist after a 2023-24 win). He played for USA at both the World Junior Championship and World Championship in consecutive years, securing two bronze medals in 2018 and a Worlds silver in 2019. He holds Canucks records for career assists and points (tied) among defensemen and is the only American to captain the franchise. His mother, Ellen, won silver with USA at the 1992 World Women’s Championship.

 

Auston Matthews, F, Toronto Maple Leafs (1st)

Before captaining USA at the 4 Nations Face-Off, Matthews had last represented USA in 2016 when he scored seven goals in seven games at the World Junior Championship (bronze) and then had nine points as an 18-year-old at the ensuing World Championship. He also represented Team North America at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey. Coming off his first season as Maple Leafs captain, he holds franchise records for consecutive 30-goal seasons (9) and career 40-goal seasons (6) while placing himself within striking distance of the club benchmark for career goals. Matthews had 69 goals in 2023-24 – the most since 1995-96 (Mario Lemieux) – and is the top goal scorer in the NHL since entering the League. Matthews is one of four Americans in NHL history to win the Hart Trophy and one of three to lead the NHL in goals (3x; also Brett Hull, 3x, and Keith Tkachuk).

 

Charlie McAvoy, D, Boston Bruins (1st)

McAvoy wore an “A” with USA at the 4 Nations Face-Off but missed the final two games due to injury. Elsewhere internationally, he medaled in five straight seasons from 2013-14 to 2017-18, including bronze and golds at the World Junior Championship in 2016 and 2017, respectively. He capped that run with bronze at the 2018 World Championship when he led defensemen in points (tied; 3-6—9 in 6 GP). Since entering the NHL in 2017-18, McAvoy leads Bruins defensemen in goals, assists and points – in the process cementing himself as the second-highest scoring American blueliner in the club’s 100-year history.

 

Brady Tkachuk, F, Ottawa Senators (1st)

The Tkachuks are set to become the first American brothers to skate together at the Winter Olympic Games since Derian and Kevin Hatcher in 1998. Their father, Keith, played in four Olympics (1992, 1998, 2002, 2006; 3-3—6 in 23 GP) and claimed a silver medal in 2002. The second Tkachuk to captain an NHL team (Keith w/ original Jets/Coyotes), Brady is the only American to wear the “C” for the Senators. The highest NHL Draft pick in his family, Brady is a two-time medalist with USA (gold as captain at 2017 Under-18 World Championship, bronze at 2018 World Junior Championship) and led the team in goals at the 2024 World Championship. In 2024-25, he co-led USA with three goals at 4 Nations and then made his first Stanley Cup Playoffs appearance (4-3—7 in 6 GP).

Matthew Tkachuk, F, Florida Panthers (1st)

After more than two decades without playing as teammates, Matthew and Brady Tkachuk will skate together for the third time in four campaigns (NHL All-Star Game in 2023, 4 Nations Face-Off in 2025) and become the first American brothers since 1998 to lace up at the same Winter Olympic Games. Their father, Keith, played in four Olympics (1992, 1998, 2002, 2006; 3-3—6 in 23 GP), winning silver in 2002. Matthew is the only member of his family to win the Stanley Cup (2024) and is aiming to claim a second this year – having reached the Final in all three campaigns with the Panthers. He leads Florida in assists and points since joining them in 2022-23 (when he was a finalist for the Hart Trophy) and tallied 2-1—3 in three games at the 4 Nations Face-Off. He medaled with USA at the 2016 World Junior Championship (bronze) and 2015 Under-18 World Championship (gold).

 

 

COURTESY NHL PUBLIC RELATIONS