The Washington Capitals season inches closer and one question on some minds is which players can compete in the upcoming 2026 Olympics. Next year the NHL is doing the Four Nations Classic but as far as Olympic competition goes can American heroes John Carlson and T.J. Oshie still represent the red, white and blue?

Carol Schram mentioned that possibility back on August 6. We know it’s been a very long time since we’ve seen NHLers suit up in the Olympic games.

She notes this about Team USA:

“”Like the Canadians, eight members of Team USA are still in the NHL. That includes Jonathan Quick – and while he served as the starter in 2014 and had a fine campaign with the Rangers last season, there’s no chance that he’ll beat out the likes of Connor Hellebuyck, Thatcher Demko, Jake Oettinger, and Jeremy Swayman for an Olympic roster spot.””

– Carl Schram
She also acknowleged that T.J. Oshie was one of the biggest stars thanks to his shooter heroics. But the US forward group is also stacked so it’s unlikely he would be back. She also said don’t rule out Patrick Kane.

She sounded way more positive, however, about John Carlson:

“”Of the five American rearguards who are still active, John Carlson has the best crack at returning. Now 34, he has been impressive at maintaining his level of play. Ryan McDonagh’s veteran smarts could also make him valuable as a depth piece in a membership role.””

– Schram
Also in The Hockey News, Sammi Silber talked about how a Patrick Laine trade to the Caps just simply doesn’t make sense.

“”There’s no denying that Laine has talent and upside that could pay off big time. The 26 year old knows how to score goals, and when fully healthy, has shown that he can be a 30 goal scorer. He’s struggled over the last few seasons but has taken the time to recover in the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program and appears ready to get back on track.””

– Sammi Silber
Silber does mention that Laine’s services would come at a price and that could be an expensive one after trading for Pierre-Luc Dubois. Laine carries a cap hit of $8.7 million and though the Columbus Blue Jackets may retain salary on a trade it just wouldn’t make sense for either side.

Anyway hope you’re enjoying your Friday and have a good weekend. Remember to keep counting down because when you do it gets here faster.