Nick Suzuki, the talented captain of the Montreal Canadiens, recently achieved a significant career milestone by securing a spot on Team Canada for the Olympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina 2026. The announcement came on New Year’s Eve, after an exciting comeback win for his team against Florida.
Dreams Realized: Suzuki’s Olympic Journey
On the morning of New Year’s Day, Suzuki received a life-changing call just after 8:00 a.m. The General Manager of the Tampa Bay Lightning, Julien BriseBois, delivered the news that Suzuki had made the Olympic team.
“There was a crazy amount of emotions,” Suzuki recounted. “I couldn’t be happier and proud to make that team.” The moment was celebrated by his teammates, who provided their support and congratulations. Suzuki understands the significance of this opportunity, recognizing the honor of representing Canada alongside other elite athletes.
Performance Statistics
At the time of his selection, Suzuki’s performance had been noteworthy. He recorded 44 points in 39 games and later increased his total to 65 points in 57 games. In the 2025 calendar year, he finished third among Canadian NHL players with a total of 97 points, trailing only stars Nathan MacKinnon and Connor McDavid.
Playing Style and Impact
While Suzuki is recognized for his offensive contributions, his skills extend beyond scoring. As a prospective candidate for the Selke Trophy, he has established himself as one of the NHL’s most proficient two-way centers. His capabilities include:
- Killing penalties
- Handling tough defensive matchups
- Supporting high-scoring teammates
“I just want to be me,” Suzuki stated. “I made the team for a reason, so I just want to play my game.” His commitment to his multifaceted role will be vital as Canada aims for glory in Italy.
As Suzuki prepares for the Games, he reflects on the extraordinary experience of competing at the Olympics. “It’s a dream and it still hasn’t sunk in too much yet,” he shared, underscoring the personal significance of this achievement.
