Team Canada and Connor McDavid had an amazing performance in their first match of the tournament today, with their energy and determination clear right from the start.
On his first turn on the ice, McDavid surprised everyone by delivering a big hit to a Czech defender and went on to score 3 points throughout the game. Even his teammates were taken aback by the hit, but it highlighted the tough spirit Team Canada aims to have during this Olympic competition.
Oilers Connor McDavid didn’t just show up for Team Canada… he set the tone. 3 assists. A dominant 5–0 win. And a massive hit on his very first shift.#Oilers #Olympics2026 #Canada #nhl #Hockey pic.twitter.com/agysxZbVJk
— Bleed Oil Blue (@BleedOilBlue) February 12, 2026
After the first game, McDavid talked to the media and confirmed what many Canadians felt when they saw the hit – he was signalling that even the most talented players in Canada are ready to play hard and take control of the game in all aspects at the Olympics.
Our team is determined to play aggressively, and everyone here is eager to give their all at this tournament.
We want to play physically and put pressure on the opposition. It doesn’t have to just be Wilson, Bennett, or Marchand. Everyone can do it.
– Connor McDavid
Oilers Connor McDavid says Wilson and Celebrini we’re great today on his line for Canada. 🇨🇦 🍁 #Oilers #nhl #hockey #Canada #Olympics #MilanoCortina2026
📹 @NHL pic.twitter.com/8amev8xCI9
— Bleed Oil Blue (@BleedOilBlue) February 13, 2026
McDavid is embracing the kind of hockey Canadians have seen in previous Olympics with NHL players. They have incredible skills, and every player on this team is ready to play tough when needed.
When a huge hit comes from Canada’s top star right at the beginning of the game, it shows that they are ready to play the Canadian style of hockey. It reminds us of how they played in 2014, with players who were the perfect mix of skill and toughness like Shea Weber, Ryan Getzlaf, Jamie Benn, Corey Perry, Rick Nash, PK Subban, and others.
As the game continued and Canada kept pushing hard against Czechia with wave after wave of talented players, they easily won Game 1. McDavid’s line showed great teamwork and the Oilers captain looked excited about playing with his teammates after the match.
Unbelievable. Just unbelievable. Both of them played wonderfully. Wilson is a relentless forechecker, really puts pressure on opponents and created a lot of space out there, which was a blast. Celebrini was very impressive too. He kept so many plays going. He was a threat, a fantastic player.
– Connor McDavid
Canada might still be changing their lineup as the tournament continues, but one thing is obvious after the first game: this team includes some of the very best hockey players, and they are eager to do whatever it takes to win a Gold medal.
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