Josh Morrissey Injury Casts Shadow on Team Canada's Olympics

Winnipeg Jets defenseman's early exit raises concerns about NHL players' risks at the Games

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Team Canada's men's hockey team secured a commanding 5-0 victory, but the mood was dampened when defenseman Josh Morrissey left the game after just seven minutes due to an injury sustained late in the first period during their Milan Olympic matchup, raising concerns about his status and the broader implications for Team Canada.

Why it matters

This instance follows a familiar pattern where NHL athletes often sustain injuries during Olympic play, which inevitably influences their NHL teams. Morrissey's injury could have lasting repercussions for the Winnipeg Jets as they approach their NHL trade deadline.

The details

Winnipeg Jets' defenceman Josh Morrissey attempted to return after initially leaving the game with an injury but was unable to continue. Despite minimal official information released by Team Canada about the extent of his injury, insiders suggest this incident highlights the risks NHL players face when participating in the Olympic tournament.

  • Morrissey left the game after just seven minutes due to an injury sustained late in the first period.

The players

Josh Morrissey

A defenseman for the Winnipeg Jets who was injured while playing for Team Canada in the Milan Olympics.

John Tavares

A notable example of an NHL athlete whose 2014 Olympic campaign ended prematurely, effectively derailing playoff hopes for the New York Islanders that season.

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What’s next

The severity of Morrissey's injury remains uncertain, and it could influence the Winnipeg Jets' strategy and decisions during the trade period following the Olympics.

The takeaway

This situation emphasizes the tension between representing one's country on the Olympic stage and balancing commitments to NHL franchises, as injuries to NHL players during the Olympics can have significant ramifications for their professional teams.