Toronto Maple Leafs forwards Auston Matthews and Matthew Knies are projected to be part of Team USA’s roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics, according to Daily Faceoff. Early roster predictions by analysts Matt Larkin and Anthony Trudeau both include these players as key forwards for the American squad.
Rosters Forecasted by Experts Highlight Matthews, Knies, and Team Chemistry
On Monday, Larkin and Trudeau released their initial Milan roster projections for Team USA. Both featured Matthews and Knies in the forward grouping, though they differed slightly on Knies’ role. Larkin placed Knies in the starting lineup alongside Matthews and Jack Hughes, emphasizing the pair’s existing chemistry. Conversely, Trudeau viewed Knies more as a reserve forward, ready to step in if Matthews or Brady Tkachuk were unable to play, citing similar playing styles between Knies and Tkachuk.
Matt Larkin explained his view on Knies’ place in the lineup:
“Knies goes from off the team to my second line? Hear me out. I’m not being a Toronto Maple Leafs homer. If Knies makes USA, it makes sense to play him with his usual linemate Matthews, and Hughes’ playmaking on the right side can duplicate what Mitch Marner brought in Toronto. That’s an extremely balanced trio.” —Matt Larkin, DFO
Matthew Knies’ Previous Olympic Experience and Performance
Should Knies secure a spot on the 2026 roster, it would mark his second Olympic appearance representing the United States. He previously competed in the 2022 Beijing Winter Games, where he registered two points—one goal and one assist—in four games. At that time, he was part of a team combining <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/hockey/nhl/”>NHL veterans and college players like himself.
Matthews Confirmed as Team USA Captain for Upcoming Tournament
Auston Matthews was among the first six players officially named to the U.S. roster and is expected to continue his leadership role as captain. Frank Seravalli reported Matthews will captain Team USA for the second straight tournament, following his appointment at the recent 4 Nations Face-Off event.
Additional Roster Considerations and Final Team Composition
While Matthews and Knies were the only Maple Leafs players to make the projected lineup, other candidates were evaluated. Both Larkin and Trudeau mentioned goalie Anthony Stolarz as a potential netminder option among the three goaltenders expected to be named, although Stolarz ultimately was not included in the final roster projections.
Significance and Outlook for Team USA in 2026
The projected inclusion of Matthews and Knies adds both skill and experience to Team USA’s offensive group for the Milan Winter Olympics. Their established on-ice chemistry, particularly between Matthews and Knies, could prove essential in creating balanced scoring lines. Matthews’ leadership as captain is also likely to provide stability and motivation. As preparations continue, the final roster decisions will shape the United States’ chances on the Olympic stage, where they aim to build on past performances and contend with other elite national teams.