The USA hockey team is gearing up for the upcoming world championship by assembling a star-studded roster. The team has announced its first 15 players, including top talent such as Brady Tkachuk, Johnny Gaudreau, Seth Jones, Dylan Larkin and Zach Werenski. Luke Hughes, a young defenseman for the New Jersey Devils, is the youngest player on the roster.
In recent years, US world championship teams have typically included one or two NHL All-Stars. This year’s five All-Star players stand out as a selection. Many top American players such as Auston Matthews, Quinn Hughes and Connor Hellebuyck are still competing in the Stanley Cup playoffs which often impacts team availability for worlds. However, more players are expected to be added to the roster before the tournament starts in Czechia in May.
Head coach John Hynes will lead the team at worlds with the US aiming to improve upon its fourth-place finishes in the last two championships. The team has a history of success at the world championship with six bronze medals and one gold medal dating back to 1933. The return of NHL players to the Olympics in 2026 is a highly anticipated development for hockey fans following their absence from the Games since 2014 Sochi Olympics.
