On June 16, 2025, USA Hockey confirmed that Jack Eichel, forward for the Vegas Golden Knights, has been named to the 2026 U.S. Olympic Men’s Ice Hockey Team. This selection marks the first time in Eichel’s career that he will compete at the Winter Olympic Games, set to take place in Milano Cortina, Italy, in February 2026. Eichel is among the first six American players announced for the preliminary roster.
Recent Performances Highlight Eichel’s Value to Team USA
At 28 years old, Eichel recently showcased his skills at the 2025 4Nations Face-Off tournament, where he played a key role in guiding the United States to the championship game. Although the team fell in overtime to Canada by a 3-2 score, Eichel contributed four assists over four games and maintained a positive plus-minus rating. His four points tied him for second among American skaters during the competition hosted in Montreal, Quebec, and Boston, Massachusetts.
Extensive International Experience with USA Hockey
Beyond this upcoming Olympic debut, Eichel has been a consistent presence on international ice hockey stages for the U.S. He has competed in the IIHF World Championship three times, earning a bronze medal in 2015 during his first appearance. His international record also includes four participations in the IIHF World Junior Championship at U18 and U20 levels. Eichel’s junior career highlights include winning gold in 2014 at age 17 and silver in 2013 when he was 16. He developed his talents in the USA Hockey National Team Development Program over two seasons before turning professional.
Path to the NHL and Early Achievements
Originally from North Chelmsford, Massachusetts, Eichel played collegiate hockey for one season at Boston University. During that time, he earned the Hobey Baker Award in 2015 as the nation’s top men’s hockey player, leading the NCAA in points, assists, power-play points, and plus-minus rating. After college, Eichel entered the NHL as the second overall pick in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, selected by the Buffalo Sabres. He later joined the Vegas Golden Knights in November 2021 through a trade.
Upcoming Olympic Hockey Schedule and Roster Announcements
The full United States men’s hockey roster for the 2026 Winter Games is expected to be finalized and announced by early January 2026. The Olympic tournament will begin on February 11 in Milan, with the gold medal game scheduled for February 22. The participation of players like Jack Eichel brings anticipation to U.S. hockey fans as the team aims to compete successfully on the international stage.