

As the Olympic men's hockey tournament in Milan looms, several top teams are grappling with significant injury challenges. Canada's Bo Horvat, having missed multiple games due to a lower-body injury, has returned to practice, preparing for his Olympic contribution. Horvat's return is positive news for Canada, yet uncertainty shrouds the status of other crucial players. Brayden Point, a key playmaker, remains questionable after a January leg injury, with decisions on his participation hinging on developments before the tournament's start. Meanwhile, the United States has already made adjustments, naming Jackson LaCombe as a replacement for defenseman Seth Jones, who is out with an injury. LaCombe, renowned for his defensive skills, was part of the U.S. team that clinched the World Championship title for the first time since 1933, promising to bring strength to their lineup. Sweden is also navigating through adversity, officially ruling out top center Leo Carlsson and defenseman Jonas Brodin due to long-term injuries. This comes as fellow players Victor Hedman, Gabriel Landeskog, and William Nylander undergo recovery processes themselves, leaving their Olympic attendance in doubt. These developments set the stage for a precarious yet intriguing men’s hockey tournament in Milan, where rosters might be filled with last-minute changes as teams adapt to the health status of their star players.