Connor Hellebuyck vs. Jake Oettinger: Who really deserves Team USA's crease in 2026?

The Dallas Stars' playoff battle with the Winnipeg Jets has turned into something much bigger, fueling the debate over whether Jake Oettinger or Connor Hellebuyck should be Team USA's starter at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

For most of last season, the choice seemed obvious. Hellebuyck, the steady veteran, looked like the clear option, with Oettinger backing him up. That was how Team USA lined up at the 4 Nations, and it seemed like the plan moving forwar d.

But then the playoffs changed the conversation.

Dallas Stars podcast fuels goalie debate between Jake Oettinger and Connor Hellebuyck

When Dallas eliminated Winnipeg in the second round, Oettinger didn't just win the series, he outdueled Hellebuyck directly. The Jets' goalie played well at home but couldn't grab a single road victory, while Oettinger stayed calm under pressure.

As one podcast host said:

"Oettinger didn't just beat the Jets, he beat Hellebuyck in a duel that was all about goaltending."

Still, Oettinger wasn't perfect. He once again came up short in the Western Conference Final, g etting outplayed by Edmonton's Stuart Skinner. That left fans questioning if he is truly ready for the Olympic spotlight.

Hellebuyck, meanwhile, has experience and durability on his side. A Vezina Trophy winner in 2020, he has been among the NHL's best for years.

They added:

"USA Hockey has to decide if they want the proven veteran who can last all year, or the younger goalie who might burn hottest when the lights shine brightest."