USA reveals its hockey roster for Olympics: Thompson, Keller, and Jones lead

United States Defines its Roster for the Olympic Ice Hockey Games

The United States ice hockey team has defined its lineup for the upcoming Olympic Games, including prominent players who have shone during the season and in international competitions. The selection, recently announced, combines experience and youth, seeking an outstanding performance in the tournament. Among the key players are Tage Thompson and Clayton Keller, who contributed significantly to the United States’ triumph in the world hockey championship, marking the country’s first victory since 1933. In addition, Seth Jones, a fundamental piece in the outstanding participation of the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup, is also part of the Olympic team. These three players join the Olympic team as the only additions who did not participate in the Four Nations tournament early last year. Most of the selected players had already represented the United States in the NHL international tournament in February, where the team reached the final, losing to Canada in overtime.

“I liked the way we played: all together, all playing the right way. The most important thing for me was the chemistry, and I think the chemistry allowed the guys to play the way they did.”

Bill Guerin, General Manager

The only absentees from the 4 Nations tournament are Chris Kreider, forward for the Anaheim Ducks, and Adam Fox, defenseman for the New York Rangers and winner of the Norris Trophy in 2021 as the NHL’s best defenseman. Clayton Keller, captain of the Utah Mammoth, who leads the team in points, wore the “C” at the world championship. Thompson, a player for the Buffalo Sabres, has proven to be a consistent point producer. The United States followed Canada’s example, which also opted for a template based on the 4 Nations tournament. However, while Canada made some changes in goal, the United States kept the same three goaltenders: Connor Hellebuyck, Jake Oettinger, and Jeremy Swayman. The list of excluded players includes Jason Robertson of the Dallas Stars, the points leader for American players this season, and Cole Caufield and Alex DeBrincat, prominent scorers. Guerin and his management team, along with coach Mike Sullivan, prioritized experience and players they knew well. This meant keeping forwards Vincent Trocheck and Brock Nelson over Robertson and others. Jones was a notable exception, after his defensive ability became evident in last year’s playoffs.

“He’s a big, strong kid who skates extremely well. He has the ability to play on both sides of the puck.”

Mike Sullivan, Coach

Teams can bring 25 players to the Olympics, and can line up 20 skaters, usually 13 forwards and seven defensemen, along with two goalies. The United States’ first game is on February 12 against Latvia.