Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid has made his priorities clear as we look ahead to the 2026 Olympic Winter Games.
McDavid is approaching the Olympic season in dominant form. He leads the NHL with 92 points, posting 33 goals and 59 assists in 54 games. However, the good news for Team Canada is that Nathan MacKinnon is second on the points leaderboard. Both McDavid and MacKinnon will be leading the national team's offense.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, McDavid admitted the Olympics have been on his mind for months.
"I think it's always on the back of your mind a little bit," McDavid said. "Maybe not always, but you know, going through the summer, you need a big summer. It's a big year. You got to play a lot of hockey and get yourself ready for what should be a great tournament.
"So, definitely excited about it. On my mind a lot these days, for sure. I'm excited to get going."
The Canadian star also reflected on his experience at the 4 Nations Face-Off. McDavid did not always love his overall play during the event. Still, it ended with a moment that mattered most. He scored the overtime winner in the final against the United States, sealing the title for Canada.
However, McDavid is fully focused on the Olympics. He said that right now, winning Olympic gold is the only target that matters to him.
"It doesn't matter," McDavid said when asked about his 4 Nations performance. "I just want to win a gold medal. That's the only thing that matters.
"There's a lot of great players on that team. Everybody's going to play a role. Everyone's going to play a part, and the goal is just to win a gold. That's it."
Players who will represent Team Canada with Connor McDavid in Olympics
Earlier in January, Canada officially revealed its roster for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. It marks the first time NHL players will take part in the Olympics since 2014. The squad blends experience with elite talent from across the league.
Veteran Sidney Crosby of the Pittsburgh Penguins has led Canada as captain on many occasions, including two Olympic golds. The forward group also includes Mitch Marner, Brad Marchand, and even San Jose forward Macklin Celebrini.
The defensemen group includes Cale Makar, Drew Doughty, etc. Nineteen of these players were already part of Canada’s 4 Nations roster.