Some big Team Canada hockey news just days before the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics opening ceremonies. We have an injury replacement to announce as Sam Bennett is in, and Anthony Cirelli is out. This has to be tough news for Cirelli who will miss out on the chance to represent his country at the Olympics. However, Bennett is super excited to get the opportunity.
Sam Bennett In for Team Canada for Anthony Cirelli
Confirming. Bennett is in for Cirelli on Team Canada. Bennett was dinged up last night, but nothing serious. Tough break for veteran Anthony Cirelli.
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) February 3, 2026
Elliotte Friedman had been on The Real Kyper and Bourne Show yesterday. He had said that that was the deadline day. Team Canada people were reaching out to players and asking if they would be able to play. Guys like Brayden Point, Devon Toews, and Logan Thompson would have been on that list. Unfortunately, as we found out today, the news from Cirelli’s camp is that he is unable to go.
Cirelli was injured in Sunday’s Stadium Series game versus the Boston Bruins. The severity had been kept somewhat quiet, in case he would be able to go. However, today we found out he would not.
Sam Bennett is going to be extremely grateful for this opportunity. With names like Connor Bedard, Mark Scheifele, and Mathew Barzal, among many others, possibly awaiting a call, some could be surprised that it is Bennett who was called.
The idea is that Bennett would fit the role to replace Cirelli. Cirelli would’ve be pegged as a depth guy, who can kill penalties, and has chemistry with Brandon Hagel, slotted for a similar role. Also, there was the familiarity factor with Team Canada and Tampa Bay Lightning head coach Jon Cooper. He would’ve had some say in this replacement, although it was likely general manager Doug Armstrong’s final call.
Bennett was also a member of the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off team, so he was a definite front-runner to be named as a replacement.
Main Photo Jeff Curry USA Today Sports
