Olympics
Tom Wilson Steps Up in Gold Medal Game with Massive Hit
Watch Tom Wilson hit Dylan Larkin in a stunning play that set the tone for Team Canada’s gold medal game against Team USA.
With the game notched at 0-0, Team Canada’s Tom Wilson delivered a massive, tone-setting hit on Team USA’s Dylan Larkin early in the gold medal game at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics.
About 5 minutes into the first period, Wilson crushed Larkin behind the net with a clean but thunderous body check. It was a statement play—Wilson had no desire to play the puck. He was looking to take the body. He closed the gap as Larkin was wheeling behind the net and leveled him hard. It echoed through the arena and immediately ramped up the physicality in this heated rivalry matchup.
Credit to Larkin for popping right back up.
Wilson, who is the Washington Capitals’ polarizing power forward and one of Canada’s most physically imposing players, was also a player some fans questioned when he was selected for the team. There was some worry that he was too physical and might take a bad penalty. However, his hit on Larkin set an aggressive tone for Canada and became contagious.
Right after the hit, Canada kept pushing physically (more checks followed), but the USA responded with Matt Boldy scoring to make it 1-0 shortly after on a defensive breakdown.
At the end of the first period, the Americans maintained a lead. Team Canada is going to need to find a way to mesh their physicality and strong play with offensive production. Thus far, they’ve yet to find the right mix to get one past goaltender Connor Hellebuyck. As the game rolls along and the Canadians remain down, it will be intriguing to see how much ice time a player like Wilson continues to get.
Wilson can score, but on this team, he’s more of a protector, tone-setter, and a nightmare to play against.
Next: Crosby Out of Gold Medal Game Suddenly Makes Team Canada the Underdog
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