When did the NHL season restart after the Olympic break?

The NHL season resumed on February 12, 2026, following the break for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy.

Which NHL players did not participate in the Olympics?

All Russian-born NHL players did not participate because their country was banned from competing by the IOC and IIHF.

What is the current state of NHL playoff races after the Olympics?

The league is assessing the impact of Olympic participation on teams and players as the playoff races continue.

Home / Sports / NHL Stars Return: Olympic Aftermath and Playoff Races

NHL Stars Return: Olympic Aftermath and Playoff Races

24 Feb

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Summary

NHL season restarts after Olympic break with altered playoff races.
Players return from Olympics with varying health and emotional states.
Russian players rested during Olympics due to country's ban.

NHL Stars Return: Olympic Aftermath and Playoff Races

The National Hockey League has resumed its season after a pause for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. Players are returning from the tournament with a mix of experiences, including gold medals, injuries, and fatigue. This Olympic interlude has introduced new dynamics to the ongoing playoff races across the league.

Several teams are now assessing the physical and emotional toll on their players. Forwards Brayden Point and Anthony Cirelli of the Lightning, for example, were injured and unable to compete. Meanwhile, Russian NHL stars like Nikita Kucherov and Kirill Kaprizov had an extended break as their country was banned from the Olympics.