Montreal Canadiens captain Nick Suzuki is currently at the center of the hockey world as he represents Team Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina. As of Wednesday, February 18, 2026, Suzuki remains a focal point for both international analysts and Habs fans back in Montreal.
Olympic Performance and Lineup Shifts
Suzuki has made an immediate impact in his Olympic debut. He found the back of the net in Canada’s opening 5-0 shutout against Czechia, scoring on a feed from Connor McDavid. Throughout the tournament, Suzuki has demonstrated the versatility that earned him the captaincy in Montreal, moving between the wing and his natural center position.
Recent reports from Team Canada’s practice ahead of the quarterfinals indicate some uncertainty regarding his specific role. With veteran Brad Marchand set to rejoin the lineup, there has been significant discussion regarding whether Suzuki will remain at center or shift to accommodate the returning star. Despite the roster shuffling, Suzuki’s defensive reliability and playmaking have earned high praise from hockey legends, including former Bruins captain Patrice Bergeron.
2025-26 NHL Season Statistics
Before the Olympic break, Suzuki was putting up career-best numbers for the Montreal Canadiens. His performance has solidified his status as one of the league’s premier two-way centers:
- Goals: 18
- Assists: 47 (Tied-11th in NHL)
- Points: 65 (12th in NHL)
- Plus/Minus: +25
Canadiens Team News: Post-Olympic Return
While Suzuki is competing in Italy, the Montreal Canadiens held their first practice back from the Olympic break on Tuesday and Wednesday in Brossard. The team received a mix of news regarding the roster:
- Patrik Laine: After missing Tuesday’s session with a lower-body injury, Laine returned to practice on Wednesday, February 18.
- Alex Newhook: The forward showed major progress in his recovery, participating in the team’s first session back on the ice.
- Mandatory Equipment: Suzuki and his NHL peers have adapted to new IIHF regulations during the Games, specifically the mandatory use of neck guards, a change Suzuki reacted to earlier this week.
Contract and Career Milestone
Suzuki is currently in the fourth year of an eight-year, $63 million contract with the Canadiens, carrying an annual cap hit of $7,875,000. At just 26 years old, the London, Ontario native has already surpassed 150 career goals and continues to lead a young Montreal core through its rebuilding phase toward playoff contention.
As the Olympic quarterfinal approaches, all eyes remain on how Canada’s coaching staff will utilize Suzuki’s “200-foot game” in the pursuit of gold.