Nico Hischier’s Road to the Winter Olympics

Nico Hischier, a Swiss native, has always dreamed of playing in the Winter Olympics. Growing up in Switzerland, Hischier has never had the opportunity to experience the thrill of Olympic competition firsthand.

However, His time may finally be coming as the countdown begins for the 2026 Olympics in Milan, where Hischier hopes to represent the NHL’s best on the international stage. This season serves as a stepping stone towards that long-awaited return, with the NHL not allowing its players at the Olympics since 2014.

The excitement is palpable as Hischier and the New Jersey Devils kick off the season in Prague against the Buffalo Sabres. Two more games will follow in Finland this fall, leading up to the 4 Nations Face-off, a four-team tournament in February, as players and fans alike embrace hockey’s international roots.

Commissioner Gary Bettman expressed the significance of international competition, stating, “Our players have a history and tradition of representing their countries. We are the most international of the four major North American sports, and our players take great pride in representing their nations.”

Despite recent Olympics going on without NHL players, the upcoming 4 Nations Face-off aims to bring together the best talent from the U.S., Canada, Sweden, and Finland. This event is seen as a precursor to a future best-on-best tournament, building momentum for the 2026 Olympics.

Players like Auston Matthews, Jack Eichel, and Sidney Crosby have not had the chance to play together on an international stage, making the anticipation for upcoming tournaments even greater. The 4 Nations Face-off is set to be a mini World Cup, showcasing elite talent from around the globe.

The push for international competition has been well-received by players and fans alike, with events like the 4 Nations Face-off paving the way for more frequent global tournaments. The goal is to have a World Cup of Hockey every other year, further expanding the reach of the sport.

As the spotlight shines on upcoming international events, hockey fans around the world are eagerly anticipating the return of NHL players to the Olympic stage. With construction in Milan on track and plans for future tournaments in place, the future of international hockey looks brighter than ever.

For more NHL news and updates, visit AP NHL.