Team USA opens its Olympic campaign against Latvia in the 2026 Milan Cortina Games, marking the Americans' first Olympic appearance with NHL players since 2014. The U.S. roster features an elite collection of talent, including Auston Matthews and Jack Eichel centering the top lines, elite defensemen Quinn Hughes, Zach Werenski, and Charlie McAvoy, plus what's considered the tournament's strongest goaltending trio of Connor Hellebuyck, Jake Oettinger, and Jeremy Swayman.

Latvia counters with several current and former NHL players of their own, making this a compelling opening matchup. The game begins at 3:10 p.m. ET, with the Americans entering as heavy favorites. Team USA's return to the Olympics comes after years of absence due to the NHL's previous decision not to participate, making this tournament particularly significant for American hockey fans eager to see their top professionals compete on the international stage.

This matchup sets the tone for what many expect to be a deep run for the Americans, who enter with high expectations following their dominant NHL season performances. The U.S. faces immediate pressure to deliver on their considerable talent advantage against a Latvian squad that will look to leverage their NHL experience and cohesive team play to pull off an upset in the tournament opener.