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Only one Oiler projected to play for Team Canada at 2026 Olympics
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Photo credit: © John Jones-Imagn Images
Dylan Nazareth
Nov 5, 2025, 17:00 ESTUpdated: Nov 5, 2025, 14:43 EST
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Last week marked 100 days until the 2026 Winter Olympics. It’s an extra special one for hockey fans, as the Milano Cortina Games mark the return of NHL players to the marquee tournament for the first time since 2014 in Sochi. It’s also meant an extra important start to the 2025-26 regular season for NHLers hungry to prove themselves worthy of competing on Olympic ice.
On Wednesday, Daily Faceoff’s Matt Larkin and Steven Ellis took a latest look at which Canadians are primed to make the cut for their country with one month of NHL action in the books. Notable for Edmonton Oilers fans: both Larkin and Ellis have Bouchard not making the team, listing him in their “Toughest cut” section. Based on his play so far, they agree he may not get a look for Team Canada, with management likely to prefer someone like rookie Matthew Schaefer, who has had a strong start to the year
Larkin: I understand that Evan Bouchard didn’t make the 4 Nations team and has played worse this season so far, but I wish he’d get stronger consideration. His all-around game is underrated, the mental errors and highlight-reel blunders seemingly overshadowing all the good things he does, and his shot would be a weapon on the power play.
Ellis: Is Bouchard good enough for best on best competition? Many don’t think so. But if you limit his defensive responsibilities and let him focus on adding a bit of offensive punch if things go south, he can get the job done. If Schaefer doesn’t make the cut, I could see Bouchard being the No. 8 defender they call upon to play on the second power play.
Bouchard has two goals and eight assists through 15 games to start the season. He continues to eat over 23 minutes a night for the Oilers, but hasn’t looked in top form defensively.
Outside of Connor McDavid, who has already been named to the team, no other Oilers are currently listed among Team Canada’s projected roster. Zach Hyman has talked of his desire to play, but due to injury, he hasn’t yet shown what he can do this season. Ellis also lists Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Stuart Skinner as players who may potentially be considered, but both are currently long shots.

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