The upcoming Milan Cortina Winter Olympics will feature an impressive lineup of hockey commentators. NBC has revealed its team, showcasing a mix of seasoned professionals and Olympic veterans. The Games are scheduled to take place from February 6 to 22, 2026.
NBC’s Hockey Commentary Teams for Milan Cortina 2026
Kenny Albert will return as the play-by-play announcer for Team USA’s hockey events. This marks his record seventh Winter Olympics assignment as a hockey commentator. He will work alongside Eddie Olczyk, a celebrated hockey analyst and U.S. Hockey Hall of Famer. Together, they will cover both men’s and women’s games, including the medal rounds.
Notable Commentators and Analysts
- Kenny Albert: Play-by-play for men’s and women’s games.
- Eddie Olczyk: Men’s analyst, U.S. Hockey Hall of Famer.
- AJ Mleczko: Women’s analyst, Olympic gold medalist.
- Brian Boucher: Analyst, “Inside the Glass” for men’s games.
- Jen Botterill: Analyst, “Inside the Glass” for women’s games.
- Kathryn Tappen: On-site reporter for both tournaments.
- Brendan Burke and Chris Vosters: Play-by-play for men’s and women’s tournaments.
- Anson Carter, T.J. Oshie, Angela Ruggiero: Hockey analysts.
AJ Mleczko will be making her eighth NBC Olympics appearance, serving as the women’s analyst. Jen Botterill, a highly decorated Canadian athlete, will debut her NBC Olympics role during the women’s quarterfinals. Her induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame will coincide with her debut.
NHL’s Return to the Winter Olympics
This Winter Olympics marks the first time since 2014 that NHL players will participate. NHL’s return has amplified excitement around the hockey tournaments, particularly the classic rivalries such as USA vs. Canada.
Setting and Broadcasting Details
The Milan Cortina Winter Olympics will take place in northern Italy, utilizing multiple venues across the region. This event will also be significant as it returns to Cortina for the second time, following the 1956 Winter Olympics.
NBC will lead the coverage on broadcast and streaming platforms, including Peacock. Starting with the Opening Ceremony on February 6, viewers can look forward to comprehensive coverage of the Winter Olympics.
As stated by Molly Solomon, Executive Producer, NBC Olympics, the men’s and women’s hockey tournaments are among the most anticipated sports at the upcoming Games. The combination of elite commentators and the NHL’s participation promises a thrilling Olympic experience.
