Team USA Makes Roster Change Ahead of 2026 Winter Olympics
The U.S. men's national hockey team has announced a significant roster change ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina. Florida Panthers defenseman Seth Jones, originally expected to be out for a few weeks, was moved to long-term injured reserve (LTIR) and will miss the Games. His replacement? Anaheim Ducks defenseman Jackson LaCombe, who has been making a name for himself this season.
Seth Jones Injury Sidelines Him From Olympic Dreams
Seth Jones, 31, suffered an upper-body injury during the Winter Classic on January 2, 2026. Initially, the injury was projected to keep him out on a week-to-week basis. However, after being placed on LTIR, questions arose about his ability to recover in time for Team USA's opening game against Latvia on February 12. The move to LTIR confirmed that his absence at the Olympics is definite.
"We are obviously disappointed that Seth won't be able to join us in Italy," said USA Hockey general manager, in a statement. "However, we are excited about the opportunity to bring in Jackson LaCombe, who has shown great promise this season and earned his place on this team."
Enter Jackson LaCombe: A Rising Star in the NHL
At 25, Jackson LaCombe has quickly become a key player for the Anaheim Ducks. His performance in the 2025-26 season speaks for itself: he has scored six goals and 31 points while averaging over 24 minutes of ice time in 49 games. Last season, he put up impressive numbers with 14 goals and 43 points, a significant improvement over his rookie campaign.
LaCombe's defensive skills are particularly noteworthy. He has logged more than 100 short-handed minutes in each of the last three seasons, showcasing his ability to contribute in all situations. This experience will be invaluable for Team USA as they prepare for the high-intensity Olympic tournament.
LaCombe's International Experience
Before his Olympic debut, LaCombe already has experience representing the United States on the international stage. In May, he was part of the Team USA roster that won the world championship title, marking the country's first gold medal at the men's world championships since 1960. This victory cemented his status as a key player for the U.S. national team.
Team USA's Defensive Unit Gains a Versatile Player
LaCombe's addition to the Olympic roster bolsters an already strong defensive unit for Team USA. The U.S. will enter the Games with a formidable group of defenders, including Brock Faber and Quinn Hughes, as well as Noah Hanifin, Charlie McAvoy, Jake Sanderson, Jaccob Slavin, and Zach Werenski. With LaCombe joining them, the Americans will have even more depth and versatility on the back end.
At 6-foot-2, LaCombe provides a physical presence and can serve as a puck-moving defenseman in both 5-on-5 play and on the power play. His ability to handle tough defensive situations, as evidenced by his short-handed minutes, will be a valuable asset for Team USA.
Looking Ahead: Team USA's Olympic Aspirations
With LaCombe now on board, Team USA aims to secure its third Olympic gold medal in men's hockey, the first since the legendary "Miracle on Ice" in 1980. The Americans will face a tough challenge in Italy, with top teams like Canada, Sweden, and Finland also vying for the gold.
"Jackson's addition gives us another dynamic player who can contribute in multiple ways," said Team USA head coach, in a press conference. "We are confident that he will adapt quickly and make a significant impact on our team."
Key Matchups to Watch
Team USA's opening game against Latvia will be a crucial test. From there, the team will face a demanding schedule in pursuit of a medal. LaCombe's performance will be closely watched, as he looks to make a statement on the world's biggest hockey stage.
As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, all eyes will be on Jackson LaCombe to see if he can step into the shoes of a star player like Seth Jones and help lead Team USA to Olympic glory.