Roster Revealed for the 2026 Hlinka Gretzky Cup
USA Hockey has unveiled the 23‑player roster that will wear the red, white and blue at the 2026 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, slated for August 3‑8 in Edmonton, Alberta. The team blends fresh prospects with athletes who gained international experience at the 2025 Under‑17 Four Nations Tournament, creating a balanced mix of speed, skill and defensive discipline.
The preliminary round will pit the United States against Czechia, Finland and Germany, followed by a pre‑tournament exhibition game against Slovakia on August 1. The roster’s composition reflects USA Hockey’s confidence that the squad can replicate its 2025 performance, where it finished 3‑1‑0‑1 and secured the championship.
Minnesota’s Finest Lead the Charge
Nine players hail from Minnesota, underscoring the state’s continued pipeline of elite talent. Their hometowns span from St. Paul and Lakeville to Hugo, Zimmerman, White Bear Lake, Dellwood, Edina, and Grant, illustrating a deep regional talent pool that stretches beyond state borders.
Among the 23 athletes, 15 have already earned caps at the 2025 Four Nations Tournament, giving them a tactical edge and familiarity with high‑pressure environments. The full list of rostered players includes Beck Thoreson, Joey Cullen, Gunnar Conboy, Brooks DeMars, Rylan Hanson, Ryland Rooney, Brandon Wright, alongside newcomers such as Nash Roed and Becker Wenkus, who bring fresh perspectives to the lineup.
Historically, the United States has captured the Hlinka Gretzky Cup twice, most recently in 2025, and has finished second nine times and third four times throughout the tournament’s storied history. Defending the title will require navigating a competitive field that includes traditional powerhouses from Europe and North America.
Fans can look forward to a dynamic style of play, as the coaching staff has emphasized speed, skill and disciplined defensive structure. With the roster now set, the focus shifts to preparation, conditioning and the final tweaks that could make the difference when the puck drops in Edmonton.