Boston Bruins' Charlie McAvoy chronicles Olympic experience with Team USA

Defenseman details opening ceremony, injury recovery, and preparing for first game

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Boston Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy is providing an inside look at his experience with Team USA at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. The 28-year-old three-time gold medalist discusses the excitement of the opening ceremony, dealing with a swollen jaw injury, and getting ready for the first game against Latvia.

Why it matters

As one of the key players on the U.S. men's hockey team, McAvoy's perspective offers unique insight into the challenges and excitement of competing at the Olympics. His injury recovery and preparation for the tournament opener also highlight the physical demands placed on elite athletes at this level of competition.

The details

McAvoy landed in Milan a few days early and was able to participate in the opening ceremony with several of his U.S. teammates, including Zach Werenski, Jake Oettinger and Jeremy Swayman. He described the experience as "absolutely incredible" and a "once in a lifetime" opportunity. However, McAvoy is dealing with a swollen jaw after being hit in a recent NHL game, an injury that has caused him significant pain and made it difficult to chew. He plans to continue playing with a protective fishbowl mask, which he had gotten used to earlier this season after breaking his jaw. McAvoy acknowledged the attention around his tweet about the play that led to his latest jaw issue, but said he trusts the system and is focused on helping Team USA beat Latvia in their tournament opener.

  • McAvoy landed in Milan a few days ago.
  • The opening ceremony took place on February 6th.
  • McAvoy was hit in the jaw by Florida's Sandis Vilmanis in a recent NHL game.

The players

Charlie McAvoy

A 28-year-old defenseman for the Boston Bruins who is making his Olympic debut for Team USA. He is a three-time gold medalist in international tournaments.

Zach Werenski

A U.S. men's hockey teammate of McAvoy's who also participated in the opening ceremony.

Jake Oettinger

A U.S. men's hockey teammate of McAvoy's who also participated in the opening ceremony.

Jeremy Swayman

A U.S. men's hockey teammate of McAvoy's who also participated in the opening ceremony.

Sandis Vilmanis

A Florida Panthers player who hit McAvoy in the jaw in a recent NHL game, leading to McAvoy's current injury.

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What they’re saying

“It truly was one of the most special things I've been a part of.”

— Charlie McAvoy, U.S. Olympic Hockey Player (The Athletic)

“I know a lot of attention has been given to my tweet of the play. I didn't say anything (about him not getting suspended). I feel like a lot of people have a strong opinion on it that I share. So it is what it is. These things are not up to me, unfortunately. And we just have to have trust in the system.”

— Charlie McAvoy, U.S. Olympic Hockey Player (The Athletic)

What’s next

McAvoy and Team USA will face Latvia in their first Olympic game on Thursday, February 13th.

The takeaway

Despite dealing with a nagging jaw injury, McAvoy remains focused on helping Team USA compete for the gold medal at the Winter Olympics. His perspective provides a unique look at the excitement and challenges of representing one's country on the global stage.