Team USA Olympics GM Bill Guerin makes his thoughts known on growing injury concerns around Auston Matthews, Matthew Tkachuk

The time is getting close for the 2026 Olympic men’s hockey tournament, which takes place from February 11 to 22. Team USA will finalize its roster by December 31. However, Several key players are dealing with injuries right now, including two-time Stanley Cup Champion Florida Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk.

Other big players with injuries include Jack Hughes and Charlie McAvoy. However, Team USA general manager Bill Guerin says he is not worried about their recovery. While speaking with "The Athletic" about the situation on Wednesday, Guerin said he feels comfortable with the players’ timelines.

"I know enough about where they are that I have comfort they’ll be ready," Guerin said. "What I worry about is someone getting injured closer to that time."

Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews, who was captain of Team USA in the 4 Nations Faceoff, has started playing again. He missed several games due to a lower-body injury, and there are also concerns related to his health.

Matthew Tkachuk has started skating again as he heals from a groin injury. His return is expected between December and January. He last played in the Stanley Cup finals against the Edmonton Oilers and had contributed 23 points in 23 games, despite dealing with injuries, showing his drive.

McAvoy is on injured reserve after taking a shot to the face this season. He needed surgery, but should return well before February. This season, he has 14 assists and 32 blocked shots.

Guerin also noted the importance of goalie Connor Hellebuyck. He expects Hellebuyck to recover in time from minor knee surgery.

"I’ve talked to who I need to talk to, and I’m very comfortable with where Connor is at," Guerin said about Hellebuyck. "I’m confident he’ll be OK."

Guerin now has little time to fill the rest of the 25-man roster. He says he trusts the players to be ready, and he will continue monitoring their progress as the deadline approaches.

Auston Matthews returned in the Blue Jackets game

Auston Matthews returned from his lower-body injury after missing five games and helped the Toronto Maple Leafs beat the Columbus Blue Jackets 2-1 in overtime. He played more than 24 minutes and had three shots.

Speaking after the game, Matthews said,

"I felt good. Just trying to get the legs under me the first half of the game, but I just thought as the game went on, I felt more and more comfortable."

William Nylander scored the overtime winner and also set up the tying goal by Easton Cowan. Joseph Woll made 35 saves to end Toronto's losing streak.