For the first time since 2014, the Winter Olympics feature NHL players in men’s ice hockey — and the stars have certainly shown up through the first three preliminary games.
As expected, Canada and the United States both went unbeaten. Canada outscored its three opponents 20–3, with first-time Olympian and Edmonton Oilers superstar Connor McDavid tallying nine total points — three in each game.
The previous Canadian record for most points in a Winter Games featuring NHL players was held by 38-year-old Sidney Crosby, who recorded 16 points across three Olympic appearances (2010, 2014, and now). Crosby reached that mark during Canada’s win over France over the weekend.
McDavid already has nine points, and with Canada likely to play several more games barring a major upset, he appears well within striking distance of that milestone.
Beyond that potential feat, NBC announced historic news regarding McDavid, revealing that his nine points through three games are the most ever at this stage of an Olympic tournament featuring NHL players.
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Prior to the Olympics, Connor McDavid spoke via The Players’ Tribune about what it means to wear a Canadian jersey and represent his country at the Olympics for the first time in his career.
“Representing Canada means everything to me,” McDavid said. “With not being able to play at the Olympics until this season, it’s felt like a part of me has been missing. Some of my favorite hockey memories ever are with a Canada jersey on — or even just watching as a fan.”
Canada will face the winner of Tuesday’s matchup between Czechia (1–1–1) and Denmark (1–2) in the quarterfinals on Wednesday.
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