How Olympic snubs are fueling NHL performances ahead of Milan 2026

The announcements for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan have left several NHL stars off their national rosters, sparking debates across the league. Players like Cole Caufield, Jason Robertson, Alex DeBrincat and Mark Scheifele find themselves among the notable exclusions for Team USA and Team Canada.[1] While fans and analysts question the selections, these athletes have channeled the disappointment into strong play on the ice.

Since Team USA’s roster reveal on January 2, 2026, snubbed players have posted impressive numbers, proving their worth amid the Olympic buildup. This trend raises questions about motivation—does rejection light a fire, or does it lead to sharper focus?[1]

Snubs lighting it up for Team USA hopefuls

Cole Caufield has tied for second among American players in goals with 10 since the announcement, all stats through January 30.[1] Alex DeBrincat and Charlie Coyle trail closely with nine each, while Matty Beniers has eight. Jason Robertson, with 30 goals this season tied for third in the NHL alongside DeBrincat and Caufield, has added six goals and 15 points in 15 games—ninth among Americans in that span.[1]

These numbers come at a pivotal time, with the Olympic break looming. Robertson led U.S.-born players in points with 48 (24 goals, 24 assists) in 41 games at the time of the snub.[2] His response underscores resilience: “Obviously it hurts your ego, but I’m not going to change the way I play.”[2][3]

The focus remains on club performance. Without Olympic distractions, these players enjoy undivided attention on NHL execution. Fans watching this ESPN breakdown see how snubs are climbing leaderboards.

DeBrincat’s consistency adds weight to the narrative. His nine goals post-snub highlight sustained output, not just a hot streak.

Canadian exclusions stepping up their game

Mark Scheifele ranks fourth in points among Canadians with 37 since his team’s announcement, trailing only Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon and Macklin Celebrini.[1] Evan Bouchard leads Canadian defensemen in points (22, fourth overall) and goals (eight, ninth overall). Zach Hyman tops with 11 goals, while Jared McCann, Travis Konecny, Scheifele and Steven Stamkos each have strong tallies.

Connor Bedard, another young snub, has three goals and eight points in 11 games. Scheifele voiced frustration: “I don’t know what else I could have done… I think I’m probably playing the best hockey I’ve ever played.”[4]

These performances challenge selectors. Bouchard’s dominance on defense shows depth overlooked. For details on Robertson’s mindset, check his NHL.com interview.[2]

The group dynamic fuels motivation. Without international prep, NHL priorities sharpen.

Expert insights on the psychology of snubs

Sports psychologist Dr. Alicia Naser explains the emotional toll. “An omission like this almost always lands harder than players let on… it’s a classic threat to self-concept,” she notes.[1] Elite athletes face public rejection, triggering frustration or doubt.

Yet, top performers regulate quickly. Naser adds, “It’s rarely because they’re playing angry… external noise is stripped away.” Precision trumps bitterness for sustained excellence.[1]

Personality varies reactions. Some seek revenge; others refine consistency. Emotional regulation drives NHL success.

Naser’s work with pros highlights redirection to controllables like ice execution.

What it means moving forward

Snubs like Robertson and Scheifele prove depth in NHL talent pools. Their post-announcement surges—top-10 scoring climbs—signal sharpened focus ahead of Milan.[1]

Standby lists offer hope; injuries could open doors. For now, club success defines them.

As the Olympic break nears, watch these players pad stats in key matchups, like the Islanders’ Metro clashes. Their stories remind us: elite athletes turn setbacks into fuel, eyeing future opportunities.