Capitals' Tom Wilson Makes Olympic History with Gordie Howe Hat Trick

Injury concerns for NHL stars as Hershey prospects vie for Capitals roster spots

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Washington Capitals forward Tom Wilson made Olympic history by recording a Gordie Howe hat trick - a goal, an assist, and a fight - during Team Canada's game at the 2026 Winter Olympics. Meanwhile, the Capitals' American Hockey League affiliate in Hershey, Pennsylvania has several prospects pushing for roster spots, raising injury concerns for the NHL club's star players participating in the Olympics.

Why it matters

Tom Wilson's achievement is a rare feat in hockey, highlighting his well-rounded skill set and physical play. The Olympics also present injury risks for NHL players, as Capitals prospects in Hershey vie for opportunities to make the big club's roster.

The details

In Team Canada's Olympic contest, Wilson scored a goal, recorded an assist, and engaged in a fight, completing the elusive Gordie Howe hat trick. This accomplishment is only the second time it has occurred in Olympic men's ice hockey history. Back in Hershey, the Capitals' AHL affiliate has several promising young players making strong cases to earn call-ups to the NHL club, potentially creating roster challenges and injury concerns for the Capitals' Olympic participants.

  • Tom Wilson recorded the Gordie Howe hat trick during Team Canada's game on February 14, 2026.

The players

Tom Wilson

A forward for the Washington Capitals who is representing Team Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics.

Hershey Bears

The American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate of the Washington Capitals, located in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

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What they’re saying

“Anytime you can accomplish a Gordie Howe hat trick, it's a special moment. Tom's a physical player who can contribute in so many ways, and this just shows his all-around game.”

— Barry Trotz, Head Coach, Team Canada (newscentermaine.com)

What’s next

The Capitals will monitor the health and performance of their Olympic participants as the Hershey Bears prospects continue to push for NHL roster spots.

The takeaway

Tom Wilson's historic Gordie Howe hat trick demonstrates his unique skill set, while the Capitals' AHL depth highlights the challenges of balancing Olympic participation with developing future NHL talent.