Grades, lessons from Canada's Olympic hockey win vs. Switzerland - ESPN

ESPN

by Ryan Clark

February 13, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Canada’s men’s hockey team continued its dominant performance in the 2026 Olympic tournament with a 5-1 victory over Switzerland, building on their earlier 5-0 win against Czechia. The combined score of 10-1 highlights Canada’s attacking prowess and defensive solidity. Key players like Nathan MacKinnon, Connor McDavid, and Cale Makar have been standout performers, showcasing their two-way skills and leadership. Macklin Celebrini emerged as a breakout star with two goals in the tournament, further bolstering Canada’s scoring depth. The game against Switzerland was not just about the scoreline but also about how Canada handled a strong opponent. Switzerland boasts 10 NHL players, including Kevin Fiala and Roman Josi, and had previously defeated France convincingly. However, Canada’s ability to maintain control in all three zones proved decisive. The team demonstrated resilience, extending their lead despite Switzerland’s late-game push. Canada’s depth was on full display again, with five different players scoring against Switzerland—Thomas Harley, Sidney Crosby, Celebrini, MacKinnon, and McDavid. This versatility underscores Canada’s strength beyond their star lineup. Players like Mitch Marner and Tom Wilson also contributed significantly in previous games, highlighting the team’s overall balance. This performance matters because it reinforces Canada’s status as a gold-medal favorite. Their ability to dominate both high- and low-scoring teams showcases their adaptability and experience on the international stage. With their final group game against France approaching, Canada is positioned to solidify its place at the top of the standings.

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/13/2026