Recapping 4 Canadiens’ Performances at the Olympics

The Olympic tournament always offers a different lens through which to evaluate players. For the Montreal Canadiens, this year’s Games provided valuable experience, big moments, and in some cases, tough lessons for four of their representatives, Nick Suzuki, Oliver Kapanen, Juraj Slafkovsky, and Alexandre Texier. While the results varied depending on the country, each player leaves the tournament with something that could carry over into the NHL stretch run.

Nick Suzuki 

It was an okay tournament overall for Suzuki, but it included one moment that Canadiens fans won’t forget anytime soon. Representing Canada, Suzuki finished with two goals in six games as Canada battled its way to a silver medal finish. His offensive totals won’t jump off the page, especially considering the star-studded lineup around him, but context matters.

Suzuki was not deployed as a pure offensive driver. Often playing a responsible two-way role, he was trusted in defensive situations and key faceoffs. His biggest impact came in the quarterfinal matchup against Czechia. With Canada trailing, Suzuki scored a massive goal to tie the game, shifting momentum and ultimately helping Canada secure the win and punch its ticket to the semi-final.

That moment reinforced what Habs fans already know: Suzuki thrives when the pressure is highest. Even in a tournament where he wasn’t the focal point offensively, he showed composure and the ability to step up in crucial situations. Canada fell just short in the final and settled for silver, but Suzuki proved he can contribute on the international stage against elite competition.

Oliver Kapanen 

For Kapanen, the tournament was much quieter. The young Finnish forward saw limited action, dressing primarily for the bronze medal game against Slovakia. In that appearance, he handled himself fairly well, showing flashes of poise and smart positioning, but his role was understandably limited given Finland’s veteran-heavy lineup.

For a rookie, though, simply being part of the Olympic environment is valuable. Practices, meetings, and preparation against elite international talent; these are learning experiences that can accelerate development even without heavy in-game minutes.

Kapanen’s tournament won’t be remembered for big numbers or highlight-reel plays, but it represents another step in his progression. Exposure to high-pressure, best-on-best hockey at 22 years old is not insignificant. Canadiens management will likely view this as a positive developmental checkpoint rather than a missed opportunity.

Juraj Slafkovsky 

If there’s one Canadiens player who consistently shines in international tournaments, it’s Slafkovsky. He once again delivered a strong Olympic performance for Slovakia, finishing with four goals and four assists in six games. He was dynamic offensively, physical on the forecheck, and was the driving force behind Slovakia’s attack. Much like his breakout performance in previous international events, he showed that he relishes representing his country.