Report brings new level of fear over NHL stars, including Matthews, Nylander, pulling out of the 2026 Olympics

Last week, a report had surfaced that the the NHL may potentially pull out of the 2026 Olympics, though it originally appeared to be a long shot. Now, the chances that NHL players skip the Olympics is increasing.

The Olympic buildup should feel electric, yet the Milan rink issue has crept into every corner of the hockey world. Toronto Maple Leafs players expected to compete in February have grown uneasy after reports described the arena's ice conditions as questionable and the construction timeline as unstable.

Elliotte Friedman explained on Friday that players are nervous and unhappy with how the situation unfolded. His comments matched what league sources have echoed for days, with the NHL and NHLPA both frustrated. When Gary Bettman leaves safety decisions directly in players' hands, the tension becomes real.

Here is the original reporting note from NHL Watcher, which captured the mood around the league.

For Toronto, the pressure centers on Matthews. This will be his first Olympic appearance, and he sits at the heart of Team USA's hopes.

Fans in Toronto sense this is bigger than a scheduling hiccup because an unsafe surface could derail years of planning. Matthews has waited his entire career for this chance, and the Leafs know the emotional investment is significant. Players rarely get multiple Olympic windows, and missing one stings more than most fans realize.

Around the Leafs' room, the discussion is mostly quiet, yet concern keeps surfacing. The NHL has made it clear that safety must be unquestioned before any player steps onto that sheet.

As a fan, I feel the same knot in my stomach the players seem to carry. The Olympics should showcase elite talent, not force athletes to weigh risk against a lifelong dream. Matthews represents that crossroads perfectly.

The next major update from the organizing group will likely determine whether the hockey tournament proceeds cleanly or becomes a running story. Until then, every Leaf headed to Milan waits for reassurance that the ice will be safe enough to chase history.

Among those expected to be in consideration for a chance to represent their country are Matthews, William Nylander, Oliver Ekman-Larsson and John Tavares. Matias Maccelli is also a potential piece for Finland, but there are no guarantees given the very rough season he's had.