Hockey fans shared quick reactions after Team Canada named its leaders for the 2026 Winter Olympics. It will take place in Milano Cortina, Italy, and Canada opens play on Feb. 12 against Team Czechia. Canada then faces Team Switzerland on Feb. 13 and Team France on Feb. 15.
Games will be held at the Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena, the Rho Ice Hockey Arena in Milan, and the men’s tournament is the first with NHL players since 2014. All 12 teams will play three group games before a single-elimination playoff. Later, the gold medal game is set for Feb. 22.
NHL analyst Chris Johnston reported on X that Sidney Crosby will serve as captain in Milan. It marks the fourth straight best-on-best tournament where Crosby wears the “C.” Connor McDavid and Cale Makar were named alternate captains.
The announcement drew a mix of approval and debate. Many fans praised Crosby’s leadership and experience, whereas others focused on the alternates.
“Suzuki should’ve got an A.” One fan wrote.
“MacKinnon over Makar imo.” Another fan added.
“Would have been like the eight straight best on best tournament where he has the C of they go in 18 and 22 plus World Cups.” A fan pointed.
Here are some more reactions to Team Canada’s announcement:
“At 38, Sid’s still getting the captain nod over everyone else. Fourth straight time leading Canada in best-on-best and they’ve won the last three. Legacy locked. McDavid waiting his turn like a respectful king.” One fan reacted.
“Don’t forget Doughty…. Dudes got a mantle full of Cups, medals and a Norris.” A fan mentioned.
“Kind of weird to not have McKinnon or Marchand wear the A’s but okay,” One fan reacted.
Crosby Cosby’s on Getting Named Canada’s Captain
Crosby’s selection brings continuity to a veteran-heavy roster. His calm presence has guided Canada through past international events, like a gold medal in the 2014 Olympics. With McDavid’s speed and Makar’s impact from the blue line, Canada enters Milan with clear leadership roles set.
“It is an honour to be named captain of Canada’s men’s hockey team, which has so many great players and leading,” Crosby said about being named the captain.
Last year in February, Crosby and Canada secured their 4 Nations faceoffs. It was a close game, with McDavid scoring the game-winner. Now, they will aim to bring home an Olympic gold.
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