The most prominent Latvia-born players to reach the NHL are defenseman Sandis Ozolinsh, who helped the Colorado Avalanche win the Stanley Cup in 1996 and played 875 games in 15 NHL seasons, and goalie Arturs Irbe, who had 218 wins and 33 shutouts in 13 seasons.

Despite a population of less than 2 million, Latvia has punched above its weight in international competition, earning bronze at the 2023 World Championships.

On the eve of Team USA's debut in the men's hockey tournament, McAvoy chronicles his Olympic adventures for The Athletic.

The NHL's return to the Winter Games gives the CBJ players a chance to represent their countries at the highest level

Two Florida Panthers are set to ignite the ice for Tea Latvia at the 2026 Winter Olympics, showcasing their skills and leadership on hockey's biggest international stage.

On the eve of Team USA's debut in the 2026 Winter Olympics, alternate captain Charlie McAvoy received a bold message from Latvia youngster Sandis Vilmanis.

Elvis Merzlikins, a star NHL goalie for the Columbus Blue Jackets, is set to represent Team Latvia at the Olympics. He faces a tough opener against Team USA. Merzlikins sees this as a significant personal challenge to showcase his skills on the world's biggest stage.

Team USA begins its Men’s Ice Hockey tournament at the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics against Team Latvia on Thursday, February 12. This matchup heavily favors the Americans, and our top USA vs. Latvia predictions and free betting picks highlight three proven Team USA goal scorers to target.

Montréal Canadiens left wing Juraj Slafkovský, left, skates with the puck as Minnesota Wild left wing Marcus Johansson (90) defends during overtime in an NHL hockey game Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, in St. Paul, Minn. Credit: AP/Matt Krohn