Surprise Olympic Hockey Roster Shakeup for Team Canada

Macklin Celebrini, 19, makes first line over veteran Sidney Crosby

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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In a surprise move, 19-year-old Macklin Celebrini has been placed on Team Canada's first line for the 2026 Winter Olympics, playing alongside Connor McDavid and Tom Wilson. This comes at the expense of veteran Sidney Crosby, who has been relegated to the third line center position.

Why it matters

Celebrini's rapid rise to the top line is a testament to his impressive play and potential, overshadowing the legendary Crosby. This shakeup on Canada's roster could have major implications for their medal hopes in the upcoming Olympics.

The details

In Canada's first Olympic practice, the lines were as follows: Celebrini-McDavid-Wilson on the first line, Nathan MacKinnon-Brad Marchand-Nick Suzuki on the second line, and Crosby-Mark Stone-Mitch Marner on the third line. The fourth line had Bo Horvat between Brandon Hagel and Sam Reinhart, leaving Sam Bennett and Seth Jarvis on the outside looking in for now.

  • Canada had their first Olympic practice on February 8, 2026.

The players

Macklin Celebrini

A 19-year-old star forward for the San Jose Sharks who has earned a spot on Canada's first line for the 2026 Olympics.

Sidney Crosby

A veteran Canadian hockey player and captain of the Olympic team, who has been placed on the third line for the 2026 Olympics.

Connor McDavid

One of the NHL's top players, who will be playing on the first line with Celebrini for Team Canada.

Tom Wilson

A physical forward who will be rounding out Canada's first line alongside Celebrini and McDavid.

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What’s next

Canada still has time to make changes to their lineup before the Olympics begin, and Crosby will likely push for more ice time with Celebrini as the games approach.

The takeaway

This surprising roster decision by Team Canada highlights the emergence of young talent like Macklin Celebrini, who has outperformed veteran stars like Sidney Crosby to earn a spot on the first line. It will be fascinating to see how this plays out on the Olympic stage.