Chasing Glory: Team USA Stars Aim for Stanley Cup After Olympic Triumph

Chasing Glory: Team USA Stars Aim for Stanley Cup After Olympic Triumph

Only eight players in hockey history have won a gold medal and a Stanley Cup in the same year. The only American to achieve this was Ken Morrow in 1980, but he may soon have company. Following Team USA's first ice hockey gold medal in 46 years, sixteen players now aim to add a Stanley Cup ring to their accolades just four months later. While some players have better odds than others, all share the hope of glory before the puck drops on Game 1 of the first round. Here’s a list of Team USA stars whose teams didn’t qualify for the postseason: Kyle Connor, Winnipeg Jets Connor Hellebuyck, Winnipeg Jets Jack Hughes, New Jersey Devils Dylan Larkin, Detroit Red Wings Auston Matthews, Toronto Maple Leafs J.T. Miller, New York Rangers Matthew Tkachuk, Florida Panthers Vincent Trocheck, New York Rangers Zach Werenski, Columbus Blue Jackets The remaining 16 players are spread across 11 playoff teams, increasing the chances of at least one American achieving this rare feat. Here’s a look at each playoff-bound Team USA star: Anaheim Ducks Jackson LaCombe, D: With 57 points, LaCombe provides a crucial two-way presence on the blue line. Boston Bruins Charlie McAvoy, D | Jeremy Swayman, G: Both players are pivotal for the Bruins' playoff hopes against the Sabres. Buffalo Sabres Tage Thompson, C: With 40 goals and 40 assists, he is essential for the Sabres' offense. Carolina Hurricanes Jaccob Slavin, D: Known for his defensive prowess, Slavin will be vital against top opponents. Colorado Avalanche Brock Nelson, C: Nelson has tallied 33 goals and 32 assists, providing much-needed center depth. Dallas Stars Jake Oettinger, G: A top-10 goaltender, Oettinger has saved 5.84 goals above average this season. Minnesota Wild Matt Boldy, LW | Brock Faber, D | Quinn Hughes, D: This trio is critical for navigating the tough Central Division. Ottawa Senators Jake Sanderson | Brady Tkachuk, LW: Both players bring offensive and defensive contributions to the Senators. Tampa Bay Lightning Jake Guentzel, LW: Guentzel has excelled with 38 goals and 50 assists, part of a veteran core. Utah Mammoth Clayton Keller, RW: Keller led his team with 86 points and a strong defensive game. Vegas Golden Knights Jack Eichel, C | Noah Hanifin, D: Eichel, topping 90 points, leads a formidable Golden Knights team. As the playoffs unfold, these players will strive to make history and chase the ultimate dream of a Stanley Cup.

Source: CBS Sports - 2026-04-16