Team USA makes Connor Hellebuyck decision ahead of Olympic opener

Feb 11, 2026 (12:34)

Photo credit: James Carey Lauder-Imagn Images

Connor Hellebuyck is expected to start Team USA’s Olympic opener, and Winnipeg Jets fans know how heavy that moment gets.

Daily Faceoff reported the plan Wednesday, with the U.S. set to open against Latvia on Thursday.

For Hellebuyck, it’s the kind of assignment that flips a tournament in one night.

He is coming in as the reigning Hart Trophy winner, which still sounds wild for a goalie, but here we are.

The opener is scheduled for 3:10 p.m., and it’s a true no-excuses game.

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Latvia won’t have the same star power, but they will clog the middle and force the U.S. to stay patient.

That’s where Hellebuyck matters, because a soft early goal changes everything.

U.S. fans are excited, but the anxiety is real because this group is built to win now, not to “learn lessons” in Game 1.

Hellebuyck’s job is simple to describe and brutal to live, erase mistakes behind an aggressive lineup.

The U.S. blue line should move pucks fast, which can cut down the grinding shifts that wear goalies down.

But if the U.S. gets loose on switches, Latvia will hunt backdoor looks all game.

Back in the NHL, Hellebuyck’s 2025-26 line with the Jets sits at 13-16-7 with a 2.79 GAA and a .900 save percentage.

Those numbers are fine, not flawless, and that’s why this start feels like a statement chance.

Win clean, settle the bench, and let the top-six push the pace early.

If Hellebuyck looks calm between the pipes Thursday, Team USA’s entire path gets easier in a hurry.

Previously on HockeyLatest

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FEVRIER 11\|122 ANSWERS Team USA makes Connor Hellebuyck decision ahead of Olympic opener Should Connor Hellebuyck start Team USA’s entire Olympic run?
Yes	84	68.9 %
No	38	31.1 %
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