Jonathan Toews Advocates for Mark Scheifele’s Olympic Selection

As Canada prepares for the upcoming Olympic Games in Italy, former Olympic gold medalist Jonathan Toews is advocating for his teammate, Mark Scheifele, to join the national hockey team. Toews, who experienced the pride of being selected for the Canadian squad in the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, believes Scheifele deserves the same opportunity.

Toews expressed his sentiments, stating, “I think he’s one of those guys that maybe hasn’t gotten his due and had the chance to represent Canada at that level.” The men’s hockey tournament begins on February 11, 2026, and the official roster announcement will occur on New Year’s Eve.

Mark Scheifele’s Performance and Aspirations

Despite the pressure of Olympic selection, Scheifele is focused on his game. He commented, “It’s going to pop into your mind every once in a while, but it’s a matter of you letting it stress you out or letting it motivate you.” The 32-year-old centre from Kitchener, Ontario, entered his recent game against the Ottawa Senators with an impressive tally of 40 points (16 goals and 24 assists) in just 31 games this season.

Scheifele was notably absent from last February’s 4 Nations Face-Off, where Canada clinched gold against the United States. He acknowledged that the prospect of the Olympics has fueled his motivation for this season. “I wanted to be on that team, but it’s not what I can control,” he reflected. “All I can do is focus on the future and keep working hard at my game.”

Despite the struggles of the Winnipeg Jets, who had a record of 15-15-1 leading into the game against the Senators, Scheifele remains optimistic about his performance. He was invited to Hockey Canada’s Olympic orientation camp in August, a step that adds to his credentials as a potential Olympic player.

Support from Coaches and Teammates

Six players have already been confirmed for Team Canada, including renowned stars such as Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid. Winnipeg Jets head coach Scott Arniel expressed strong support for Scheifele, stating, “I think he’s done everything possible to be on that team, and I think that he should be on that team.” Arniel emphasized Scheifele’s impressive puck handling and overall performance as key factors for selection.

Arniel also highlighted the importance of versatility in Olympic play, noting that Scheifele’s ability to contribute on both offense and defense makes him a valuable asset. “When you have four lines of great players like that, it’s more about sort of [penalty kill, power play], faceoffs, those types of things,” Arniel said. “I think he can fit into that line and into those roles.”

Reflecting on his Olympic experience, Toews recalled playing on a fourth line in 2010 that excelled in defensive duties while also contributing offensively. He stated, “There’s no doubt that he’s one of the elite players in the league.” Toews believes Scheifele can adapt to any role, whether on a top scoring line or in a more defensive capacity.

Scheifele echoed this sentiment, expressing his willingness to embrace any role if selected for the team. “If I were to make the team, I’m ready to play any role,” he said. “We’re all great players. Whether you’re thrust in an offensive role, defensive role, whatever it is, you’ll do anything to be on that team and anything to win.”

The Winnipeg Jets are not only looking at Scheifele for Olympic representation. Other hopefuls include defenseman Josh Morrissey, who previously played on Canada’s 4 Nations squad, along with American teammates Kyle Connor and goalie Connor Hellebuyck. Morrissey expressed his hopes for both him and Scheifele to compete in Milan, stating, “I believe he’s got the ability to adapt. He’s got such a great hockey mind and a great skill set.”

As the announcement date approaches, the anticipation builds for players and fans alike. The selection process to finalize the Canadian men’s Olympic hockey team will take place during marathon meetings next week, intensifying the excitement surrounding this year’s competition.