Josh Morrissey Out vs. France, But There’s Good New for Olympics

Team Canada head coach Jon Cooper offered an injury update on Winnipeg Jets’ and Team Canada defenseman Josh Morrissey on Friday. Cooper confirmed Friday that Morrissey will miss Canada’s upcoming Group A game against France on Sunday at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics. The good news is that the defenseman is not expected to miss the remainder of the tournament.

The update suggests the injury is being treated cautiously rather than viewed as long-term.

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Morrissey exited early in Canada’s Olympic opener against Czechia on Thursday, leaving the ice in the second period of a 5-0 victory and not returning. While he reportedly attempted to come back, he was unable to do so, according to Cooper’s postgame comments.

Already scratched for Friday’s game against Switzerland—with Travis Sanheim filling in—his sitting will carry over to Sunday’s matchup. Cooper’s exact words, confirmed by multiple NHL insiders, were clear: “You will not see him next game. But by no means is he out for the tournament.” In other words, it’s day-to-day.

No specifics on the injury have been released, and Canada cannot add a replacement since the Olympic tournament is underway. While Team Canada has been dominant thus far, off to a 2-0 start, Morrissey’s importance cannot be overstated.

Expect Morrissey To Be Back For Team Canada and the Jets

If the injury remains minor, Canada could see Morrissey back in time for the knockout stages. His availability is also closely watched by Jets fans. The Jets are likely out of the mix for the 2026 NHL playoffs, but a serious injury is the last thing they need after an already dreadful campaign.

For now, Team Canada will need to adjust pairings and hope one of its top blueliners can return to full strength.

Next: Kevin Fiala Suffers Serious Leg Injury at 2026 Olympics