The NHL season has officially paused for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, but the hockey world is louder than ever. While the men’s tournament prepares to drop the puck on Wednesday, the women’s tournament is already delivering high-stakes drama, and NHL General Managers are using the “freeze” to burn up the phone lines with trade chatter.
From Sidney Crosby’s captaincy to a swirling rumor involving a Maple Leafs defenseman, here is everything you need to know for Sunday, February 8, 2026.
Women’s Olympic Hockey: Canada and USA Start Strong
While the NHL stars are just landing in Italy, the women’s tournament began yesterday with dominant performances from the North American powerhouses. If you missed the action from February 7, here is the recap:
- USA 5, Finland 0: Team USA sent a message to the world with a shutout victory over a strong Finnish squad. The headline of the night was captain Hilary Knight, who tied the U.S. Olympic career goal record (14). The Americans looked fast, disciplined, and ready to defend their legacy.
- Canada 4, Switzerland 0: Not to be outdone, Team Canada blanked the Swiss. Captain Marie-Philip Poulin led her team with the poise we’ve come to expect. Despite a valiant 55-save effort from Swiss goaltender Saskia Maurer, Canada’s depth was simply too overwhelming.
Other Olympic Scores from Feb 7:
- Germany 5, Japan 2
- Sweden 6, Italy 1
NHL Players in Milan: Captain Crosby & Injury Blows
The men’s teams are finalizing their rosters, and the biggest news coming out of the Canadian camp is official: Sidney Crosby has been named captain of Team Canada. It is a fitting honor for the veteran who scored the “Golden Goal” in 2010. He will look to lead a roster loaded with talent, including Connor McDavid, to the top of the podium.
However, not everyone made the trip. Boston Bruins forward Pavel Zacha has been ruled out for Team Czechia due to an upper-body injury. It is a tough blow for the Czech squad, which was counting on his two-way play.
NHL Trade Rumors Heating Up During Olympic Break
Just because the games have stopped doesn’t mean the rumors have. With the March 6 Trade Deadline approaching, insiders are buzzing about several massive potential moves.
- Morgan Rielly to San Jose? A surprising report has surfaced linking the San Jose Sharks to Toronto’s veteran defenseman Morgan Rielly. With the Leafs playing well recently without him, speculation is rampant that Toronto might move the $60-million blueliner to clear cap space and re-tool their roster.
- Patrik Laine on the Move: The Montreal Canadiens are reportedly exploring options for Patrik Laine. The winger is nearing a return from abdominal surgery, but reports suggest he may have played his last game for the Habs. Montreal is willing to retain salary to make a deal happen, with teams like Calgary and Carolina potentially interested.
- Draisaitl’s Frustration: Before the break, Leon Draisaitl had some choice words about the Edmonton Oilers’ leadership and defensive play. While he has since clarified that he includes himself in that criticism, the tension in Edmonton is palpable as they cling to a playoff spot in the Pacific.
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