Pulisic Reveals Favorite NHL Team, Sends Message to USMNT Fans

U.S. men's national team captain discusses hockey fandom and pride in representing his country.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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U.S. men's national team captain Christian Pulisic spoke about his NHL fandom, revealing he supports the Florida Panthers, and discussed the difference between playing for his club team AC Milan and the USMNT, emphasizing the pride and extra motivation he feels when representing his country.

Why it matters

As the USMNT prepares for the 2026 World Cup on home soil, Pulisic's comments provide insight into his mindset and the importance he places on playing for the national team, which will be crucial to the team's success.

The details

Pulisic, 27, said he has attended fewer than 10-15 hockey games in his life, mostly Hershey Bears minor league games, but revealed he went to this past year's Stanley Cup Final in Florida and cheered for the Panthers, mainly because he has family there. When asked about the difference between playing for AC Milan and the USMNT, Pulisic emphasized the extra pride and motivation he feels when representing his country, saying 'it's the most proud I am when I'm playing'.

  • Pulisic spoke with Jamison Coyle and Jason Demers in February 2026.

The players

Christian Pulisic

The 27-year-old captain of the U.S. men's national team and forward for Italian club AC Milan.

Jamison Coyle

The NHL commentator who interviewed Pulisic.

Jason Demers

The NHL commentator who interviewed Pulisic.

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What they’re saying

“There's always pressure in some of the biggest competitions, you know, whether club or country, but I think when you play for your country, you always have that little extra sense of pride wearing and representing that team USA.”

— Christian Pulisic, U.S. men's national team captain (NHL Media)

What’s next

Pulisic will look to lead the USMNT to success at the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

The takeaway

As the USMNT's captain and one of their most important players, Pulisic's comments highlight the pride and motivation he feels when representing his country, which will be crucial for the team's performance at the upcoming World Cup on home soil.