The group stages at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics are reaching a fever pitch. As the NHL’s best battle for seeding, today’s final preliminary games will determine which four nations earn a direct bye to the quarterfinals and who must navigate the treacherous qualification round.
Canada vs. France
Canada enters this matchup as the heavy favorite after dominating wins over Czechia (5-0) and Switzerland (5-1). With the new “super line” of Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, and Macklin Celebrini finding their stride, the focus for the Canadians is now on goal differential to secure the tournament’s top overall seed. France, currently winless, faces a monumental task in trying to contain the most star-studded roster in the tournament.
- Tip: Canada -5.5 (Puck Line)
- Odd: 1.82 ✅✅✅
- Stake: 3/5 Units
Denmark vs. Latvia
This is a critical “bubble” match in Group C. Latvia is riding high after a massive 4-3 upset victory over Germany, led by Boston Bruins prospect Dans Locmelis. Denmark, despite a loss to the Americans, showed significant grit and will rely on veteran leadership and Frederik Andersen in net to keep their quarterfinal hopes alive. Expect a tight, defensive battle as both teams fight for every inch of ice.
- Tip: Under 5.5 Goals
- Odd: 1.65
- Stake: 4/5 Units
USA vs. Germany
The United States has been a force of nature, boasting a +7 goal differential after surviving a scare from Denmark. To clinch Group C and potentially the #1 overall seed, the U.S. needs a convincing win against a Germany team that has looked surprisingly vulnerable following their loss to Latvia. While Germany features world-class talent like Leon Draisaitl and Tim Stützle, the American depth across all four lines and their elite defensive corps should prove too much.
- Tip: USA -3.5 (Puck Line)
- Odd: 2.25
- Stake: 2/5 Units
Best of luck!
