A Long Night, an Early Call, and a Team Canada Dream Realized for Nick Suzuki

Montreal Canadiens forward and captain Nick Suzuki got the call every Canadian hockey player dreams of — and despite a late night, he was already awake waiting for it. The Canadiens beat the Florida Panthers in overtime on Tuesday, but Suzuki’s mind was on Team Canada, hoping he would make the roster.

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The Canadiens captain confirmed he was informed early Tuesday morning by Julien BriseBois that he had been selected to represent Team Canada at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics. Suzuki admitted the anticipation had been building for days, making sleep hard to come by as the decision loomed.

“There’s been a lot of stress and thinking about it,” Suzuki said. “You try not to let it affect your game, but it’s hard not to think about it, especially late at night. So it’s nice to have it over with.”

For Suzuki, the moment carries deep personal meaning. Representing Canada on the Olympic stage has been a lifelong goal, one that now feels real after years of development and steady progression in the NHL.

“It means the world to me,” he said. “It’s something I dreamed about as a kid, and to have it become a reality now is an amazing feeling. I’m incredibly proud and excited to represent Team Canada.”

Suzuki also reflected on how being cut from the Four Nations roster helped fuel his motivation. Rather than letting it linger, he used it as an added incentive to elevate his game and focus on helping the Canadiens win.

“Getting cut earlier gave me extra motivation,” Suzuki explained. “I just wanted to play my best and help the Canadiens win.” He talked about helping his own team get into the playoffs and going on an incredible run. That likely played a role in the eyes of the managers in making their Team Canada selections.

That mindset has paid off. Montreal’s strong stretch this season and Suzuki’s consistent two-way play got him a spot on the team. That doesn’t mean he’s going to change anything or alter what he’s doing, now that he’s in. He emphasized that his approach will be to compete hard, lead by example, and do whatever it takes to help his team succeed.

Now, the focus shifts forward. Suzuki is eager to join his teammates and embrace the opportunity ahead in Italy.

“I can’t wait to get together with the guys and head over to Italy,” he said. “It’s an incredible honor, and I’m really looking forward to what’s ahead.”

Next: New Faces Added as Team Canada Officially Announces Its Olympic Roster