The Americans showcased a dominant performance in this season’s Rivalry Series against Canada, outscoring them 24-7 over four games, including a significant 10-4 victory in the third match. Captain Hilary Knight and University of Minnesota forward Abbey Murphy each scored five goals, surpassing the entire Canadian team’s total. The American starting goaltender, Aerin Frankel of Boston Fleet, maintained an impressive 1.00 goals against average in her two starts, while Canada’s Ann-Renée Desbiens allowed more than five goals on average in her two games.
With six consecutive wins over Canada, the Americans enter the Olympic women’s hockey tournament as the top-ranked team by the International Ice Hockey Federation. The team’s success is attributed to a mix of experienced veterans and emerging young talents poised to make an impact in the PWHL.
As the Americans gear up for the Olympics, Knight, heading into her fifth and final Games, aims to secure her second Olympic gold medal. Shoreview Sports Analytics data predicts a 77.4% chance of the Americans winning gold at the Olympics. Despite the lopsided Rivalry Series, the historical rivalry between the two nations suggests that the competition will be fierce, with outcomes often decided by a single goal.
The American team, conscious of the upcoming challenge at the Olympics, emphasizes the importance of the journey ahead. The squad’s confidence, built over the last four years, is rooted in mutual trust and belief, preparing them for the pinnacle event. The team’s significant roster changes include twelve players making their Olympic debut at Milano Cortina 2026, including all three goaltenders.
The focus on integrating younger players into the team over the past years has been evident, with players like Murphy, Harvey, Edwards, Janecke, and Simms making notable contributions. Murphy’s standout performance in the Rivalry Series showcased her unique skill set and ability to disrupt opponents. The team’s prospects in the upcoming PWHL draft are expected to make a significant impact based on their current form and potential.
The American team’s blend of youth and experience is highlighted by veterans such as Knight, Keller, Coyne Schofield, Stecklein, Pannek, and Carpenter, who bring a wealth of winning experience to the team. As the team gears up for the Olympics, the players express their excitement about showcasing their collective strength on the global stage. The Americans kick off their tournament against Czechia, followed by a highly anticipated matchup against Canada in the preliminary round.
