Introduction: A New Era for the Defending Champions

Finland enters the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games in an unprecedented position. They are the reigning men’s ice hockey gold medalists. The triumph in Beijing 2022 marked a pivotal moment for Finnish hockey. It was the culmination of decades of disciplined development. It also reflected international consistency. Yet, the 2026 tournament represents a complete reset. The National Hockey League will pause its season for the first time since 2014. This pause will unleash the world’s best players onto the Olympic stage. The team that captured gold in 2022 was built largely from European-based professionals. It will bear little resemblance to the star-laden roster. This new roster will take the ice in Italy.

This new reality presents a fascinating challenge for the Finnish Ice Hockey Association’s leadership. General Manager Jere Lehtinen and Head Coach Antti Pennanen must integrate a wealth of elite NHL talent. They need to preserve the core identity that has made the Leijonat (The Lions) a perennial international power. They have not been subtle about their intentions. In multiple public statements, both Lehtinen and Pennanen have been clear about their strategic vision. They state that Finland will be a “very good and competitive team.” It will also be a “defense-first team.” This philosophy is the foundational principle behind this projection. It is an analytical lens. Every roster decision, from the top line to the final taxi squad spot, must be viewed through it.

Finland possesses a formidable arsenal of offensive talent capable of matching any nation. However, its quest to defend Olympic gold will be defined by its commitment to this defensive identity. The battle for the final roster spots will be won not just on raw skill. It will also rely on two-way intelligence. Tactical versatility is crucial. Additionally, a demonstrated alignment with Pennanen’s system is necessary. This situation creates a compelling tension between Finland’s undeniable offensive firepower and its deeply ingrained ethos of structural integrity. It sets the stage for constructing a uniquely Finnish contender.

The Untouchables: Finland’s Foundational Six

On June 16, 2025, Team Finland provided a clear glimpse into its core identity. They did this by naming the first six players to its preliminary roster. This group of NHL superstars represents the unshakeable foundation upon which the 2026 team will be built. They are not just the best players available. They are exemplars of skill and leadership. Their two-way responsibility will define the team’s character.

• Aleksander Barkov (C, Florida Panthers): The presumptive captain and the team’s spiritual leader. Barkov is the perfect embodiment of elite skill fused with uncompromising defensive responsibility. His resume, which includes back-to-back Stanley Cups and multiple Frank J. Selke Trophies as the NHL’s best defensive forward, speaks for itself. A veteran of the 2014 Sochi Olympics, he will be the anchor of the top line. He will also serve as the standard-bearer for the team’s defensive conscience.
• Sebastian Aho (C/W, Carolina Hurricanes): Aho is dynamic and highly versatile. He has been a consistent point-producer for the Hurricanes. He also excels with the national team. His ability to seamlessly transition between center and wing provides Coach Pennanen with critical lineup flexibility. As a three-time NHL All-Star, he brings elite playmaking and scoring to the top-six.
• Mikko Rantanen (W, Dallas Stars): A powerful, dominant winger with a Stanley Cup championship on his resume. Rantanen is a premier goal-scorer and offensive driver who combines size with elite skill. He will be a primary weapon on the top line and a cornerstone of the power play.
• Miro Heiskanen (D, Dallas Stars): The undisputed anchor of the Finnish blue line. Heiskanen is an elite-skating, minute-munching workhorse who can control the game in all three zones. Having recovered from a significant knee injury, he is poised to be one of the tournament’s top defensemen. His experience at the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics gives him valuable insight into the demands of the competition.
• Esa Lindell (D, Dallas Stars): A premier shutdown defenseman whose selection immediately reinforces the “defense-first” mantra. As Heiskanen’s partner in Dallas, he brings built-in chemistry to the top pairing. Lindell excels against top opposition and will be a fixture on Finland’s penalty kill.
• Juuse Saros (G, Nashville Predators): The anointed starting goaltender. A two-time NHL All-Star, Saros has been one of the league’s most dependable netminders for years. His selection cements his status as the No. 1, though his performance will be under intense scrutiny following a difficult outing at the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off.

Forging the Attack: Projecting the Forward Lines (14 Players)

Finland’s greatest strength lies in its forward corps. This group boasts an enviable combination of elite skill. It showcases two-way intelligence and punishing depth. Constructing these four lines will be a masterclass in balancing offensive potential. Selecting the extra forwards will align with the team’s overarching defensive philosophy.

The Elite Top Six: A Blend of Power and Precision

To compete for gold, Finland must be able to match the top-end firepower of Canada, the United States, and Sweden. This projected top six is designed to offer two distinct lines. Both lines are equally dangerous and capable of controlling play. They generate offense against any opponent.

Line 1: Roope Hintz – Aleksander Barkov – Mikko Rantanen

This trio has the potential to be one of the most dominant lines in the tournament. Barkov is the peerless two-way fulcrum. He is capable of shutting down opposing top lines. He also distributes the puck with elite vision. He is flanked by two powerful wingers who create offense in different ways. Rantanen is the pure scoring threat, a formidable presence who can score from anywhere in the offensive zone. The addition of Roope Hintz completes the line with a crucial element: game-breaking speed. Described as a “dynamic, two-way force” for the Dallas Stars, Hintz uses his explosive skating. This allows him to drive the net. He creates space for his linemates. He combines size, speed, and defensive responsibility. This makes him the ideal complement to Barkov and Rantanen. They form a line with no discernible weaknesses. This combination has been widely endorsed by multiple expert projections.

Line 2: Teuvo Teräväinen – Sebastian Aho – Patrik Laine

This second line offers a different offensive look. It is equally potent, built on skill and creativity. One of the most lethal shots in hockey enhances it. With Aho driving play from the center position, he is surrounded by two highly intelligent and skilled wingers. Teuvo Teräväinen is a “clutch winger” whose hockey IQ and sublime playmaking abilities are consistently underrated. He sees the ice at an elite level and makes those around him better. On the right side, Patrik Laine remains a fascinating and vital piece of the puzzle. While his NHL career has been marked by inconsistency, his talent is undeniable. He possesses a world-class shot that can change a game in an instant, a critical asset for any power play. Laine’s strong performance at the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off demonstrated his ability to produce alongside other elite Finns. He tallied three assists in three games. This should quell concerns about his fit on the national team.

The Two-Way Engine Room: The “Defense-First” Philosophy in Action

The bottom-six is where the identity of this team will be forged. Other nations might use these spots for one-dimensional scorers or energy players. However, Finland will prioritize versatile, intelligent, and defensively responsible forwards. These players can execute Coach Pennanen’s system. These lines are built to win matchups. They kill penalties and grind down opponents. This allows the top-six to play with offensive freedom.

Line 3: Artturi Lehkonen – Anton Lundell – Mikael Granlund

This is a coach’s dream of a third line. It is a unit that can be deployed in any situation. It can also be deployed against any opponent. Anton Lundell is one of the NHL’s premier young shutdown centers. He is crucial to what was described as the “most effective third line in hockey.” This was observed during the Florida Panthers’ recent playoff runs. He is flanked by two relentless and experienced wingers. Artturi Lehkonen is a tenacious forechecker and a proven clutch performer in high-stakes games. On the other side, Mikael Granlund transforms into a different player when he wears the Leijonat jersey. He is described as a “monster” in international play. He was arguably Finland’s best forward at the 4 Nations Face-Off. He brings a veteran’s poise and versatility to the lineup.

Line 4: Eetu Luostarinen – Jesperi Kotkaniemi – Joel Armia

This fourth line provides a formidable combination of size, defensive acumen, and tactical discipline. Eetu Luostarinen was the other key winger on that dominant Panthers third line. He played alongside Lundell, bringing pre-existing chemistry. He also had a deep understanding of a shutdown role. At center, Jesperi Kotkaniemi offers a young, capable, and responsible presence who can win face-offs and handle difficult defensive assignments. Rounding out the line is Joel Armia, a prototypical fourth-line winger for a team with this philosophy. His large frame, penalty-killing prowess, and physical style make him perfectly suited to a grinding, defensive role.

The Extras: Versatility is Key

In a short, intense tournament, the 13th and 14th forward spots are not afterthoughts. They are critical insurance policies. These positions must offer versatility and reliability.

• 13th Forward: Erik Haula: A seasoned veteran who offers what is needed from a depth player. He is proficient in the face-off circle. He has experience on the penalty kill. He can seamlessly step into any of the bottom-six roles if there is an injury or poor performance.
• 14th Forward: Kaapo Kakko: His development has been a winding road since being drafted second overall. However, Kakko’s underlying skill remains immense. He provides an offensive upside that few other depth candidates can match. He can be inserted into the lineup to provide a scoring spark. If injuries strike, he can move into a top-nine role. This makes him a valuable and flexible asset.

The Bubble & Notable Omissions

The depth of Finnish forward talent means that several high-quality NHL players will inevitably be left off the roster.

• Eeli Tolvanen: A dangerous shooter who has carved out a solid NHL career. However, his primary skill set is somewhat redundant with Patrik Laine on the roster. He does not possess the same defensive utility. Additionally, he lacks the penalty-killing ability as players like Armia or Luostarinen.
• Jesse Puljujärvi: A big-bodied winger who has earned another chance in the NHL. Despite his size, his offensive production has never consistently matched his physical tools. This inconsistency makes him a less reliable option than the players selected for the bottom-six.
• Oliver Kapanen: A rapidly improving prospect who had a strong 2024 IIHF World Championship. He is a future national team fixture. However, the jump to an Olympic roster is probably too soon for the young forward. This roster features the best players in the world.

The sheer number of high-quality centers available—Barkov, Aho, Hintz, Lundell, Granlund, Kotkaniemi, and Haula—is not merely a sign of talent. It is a profound strategic advantage. This depth allows for unparalleled tactical flexibility. Aho can be shifted to the wing to create a super-line. This change can be made without the team suffering a significant drop-off at the second-line center position. Granlund can move from wing to center to take key defensive draws. This structure enables Coach Pennanen to roll four lines that are all defensively sound and capable of winning puck possession. This depth of talent among centers stems directly from Finland’s world-renowned player development system. It serves as the backbone of the team’s “defense-first” identity.

The Blue Line Blueprint: Constructing the Defensive Corps (8 Players)

While the forward group is laden with stars, the defensive corps will be the true embodiment of Finland’s strategic identity. The selections prioritize stability, chemistry, and shutdown capability. This approach takes precedence over high-risk offensive flair. It creates a foundation designed to support the team’s potent attack.

The Premier Pairing: The Dallas Connection

Pairing 1: Miro Heiskanen – Esa Lindell

This pairing is the most certain combination on the entire roster. As established partners for the Dallas Stars, their chemistry is a built-in advantage that cannot be overstated. Heiskanen is the engine—an elite puck-mover and transition defender who will log massive minutes against the opponent’s best players. Lindell is his perfect complement. He is a quintessential stay-at-home, shutdown specialist. He excels on the penalty kill and in the most difficult defensive situations. Together, they form a balanced, all-situations top pair that gives Finland a legitimate No. 1 unit to rival any in the world.

Rounding Out the Top Four: The Shutdown Specialists

Pairing 2: Niko Mikkola – Rasmus Ristolainen

This pairing is built to be a physical nightmare for opposing forwards. It brings size, strength, and a clear defense-first mentality. Niko Mikkola has evolved from a depth defenseman into a legitimate top-four force. He plays a key role in back-to-back Stanley Cup championships. He has “blossomed into a two-way star.” He is a “wrecking ball physically.” This brings a coveted blend of defensive acumen and championship pedigree. Alongside him, Rasmus Ristolainen provides a heavy, punishing presence on the right side. While his style can be polarizing, he offers invaluable assets. His physicality is crucial in the Olympics. He willingly clears the front of the net in this compressed, high-stakes environment.

Depth, Mobility, and the European Factor

Pairing 3: Olli Määttä – Mikko Lehtonen

This third pairing offers a blend of steady NHL experience and elite European performance. Olli Määttä is a reliable, intelligent veteran defenseman. He has two Stanley Cup rings. He also has prior Olympic experience from the 2014 Sochi Games. He provides a calming, low-event presence. His partner, Mikko Lehtonen, is a unique and essential component of this blue line. Lehtonen has been a dominant, puck-moving defenseman in Europe for years. He is a cornerstone of the national team program. He played in both the 2018 and 2022 Olympics. His inclusion demonstrates the trust the Finnish coaching staff has in him. They believe in his ability to quarterback a power play. This offers a different look from the more defensive-minded players above him in the lineup. His selection is widely seen as a certainty among Finnish hockey followers.

The Extras: Insurance Policies

The final two spots on defense must provide reliability and the ability to step into the lineup without causing disruption.

• 7th Defenseman: Juuso Välimäki: He is a mobile, modern-day NHL defenseman. He can move the puck effectively and play on either the left or right side. He is a dependable option who can fill in on the third pairing and contribute to the puck-moving game.
• 8th Defenseman: Henri Jokiharju: Another capable young NHLer who brings puck-moving skills and a right-handed shot, a valuable commodity. He can step in to provide an offensive boost or see time on a second power-play unit if necessary.

The construction of this defensive corps reveals a deliberate strategic choice. Beyond the singular brilliance of Miro Heiskanen, the group is defined by defensive reliability rather than offensive dynamism. Players like Lindell, Mikkola, Ristolainen, and Määttä are known for their ability to suppress chances, not create them. This is not an oversight but a calculated decision that reflects a deep understanding of the team’s overall composition. The Finnish management is banking on its elite forward group to carry the burden of offensive creation. The primary role of the defense is to be a low-risk, stable foundation. They must win battles and protect the net. They should also execute clean and simple breakout passes to get the puck into the hands of their world-class forwards. This approach minimizes defensive-zone turnovers. It allows players like Barkov, Rantanen, and Aho to play with the offensive freedom needed to win games.

The Last Line of Defense: The Goaltending Trio (3 Players)

For decades, goaltending was the bedrock of Finnish international success. In 2026, it stands as the team’s most significant question mark. The performance of the men in the crease is crucial. It will determine if Finland stands on the podium or goes home empty-handed.

The Undisputed No. 1: Juuse Saros

As one of the foundational six players named to the preliminary roster, Juuse Saros is unequivocally Finland’s starting goaltender. On paper, he is one of the best netminders in the NHL. He is a dynamic and athletic goalie. He is capable of stealing games on his own. However, his position is not without uncertainty. His performance at the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off was subpar, posting a 3.96 goals-against average and an.870 save percentage in two starts. Furthermore, his 2024-25 NHL season was marked by periods of inconsistency. As a result, some analysts labeled the goaltending position as the team’s biggest question mark. The pressure on Saros to rediscover his elite form and backstop a gold medal contender will be immense.

The Battle for Backup: The Rising Star vs. The Steady Hand

The roles behind Saros are crucial, providing both a capable alternative and essential support.

• No. 2 Goalie: Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen: Over the past two seasons, Luukkonen has seized the starting role for the Buffalo Sabres. He is on a clear upward trajectory. He has demonstrated the ability to handle a heavy workload. He has the size and poise to thrive in high-pressure situations. He is the best option to challenge Saros for starts. He can also step in and carry the load if the starter falters.
• No. 3 Goalie: Kevin Lankinen: Lankinen is a reliable and experienced NHL backup. He also knows the national team well, having been part of the 4 Nations Face-Off squad. He is the ideal third goaltender. He is a consummate professional who can support the top two goalies. He is also ready to play if called upon in an emergency.

Joonas Korpisalo is another Finnish goaltender with NHL starting experience. He was also considered. However, he ultimately misses the cut due to struggles with consistency in recent seasons. These struggles place him behind the other three candidates.

The Future is Bright: The Next Wave of Leijonat

While the 2026 roster will be dominated by established veterans, Finland’s renowned development pipeline is brimming with elite young talent. These players are on the cusp of making the team. They may be long shots for Milano Cortina. However, they represent the core of the team that will compete for gold in 2030 and beyond.

• Konsta Helenius (C/RW): Helenius is the most NHL-ready prospect in the Finnish system. He is a cerebral, highly intelligent two-way forward. His game perfectly matches the national team’s identity. During his strong rookie season in the AHL with the Rochester Americans in 2024-25, he played 65 games. He posted 35 points with 14 goals and 21 assists. This achievement happened as he was the league’s youngest regular. It showcased a seamless transition to the smaller North American ice. Helenius could force his way onto the 2026 roster. He just needs a blistering start to the season.
• Jani Nyman (W): A formidable presence, Nyman is a big-bodied winger with a truly elite shot. He had a record-setting goal-scoring season in Finland’s top professional league. After that, he excelled in the 2024-25 campaign in the AHL with the Coachella Valley Firebirds. He scored 28 goals and added 16 assists, totaling 44 points in 58 games. He continues to refine his all-around game. He projects as a future top-six power forward. He will also be a power-play weapon for the Leijonat.
• Brad Lambert (C/W): Lambert possesses one tool that is truly world-class: his skating. He is an explosive and dynamic player in transition. He can carry the puck through the neutral zone with breathtaking speed. The primary question surrounding Lambert has always been whether his decision-making and offensive production can match his feet. During his 2024-25 AHL season with the Manitoba Moose, he scored a modest 35 points. This included 7 goals and 28 assists in 61 games. This performance highlights this ongoing challenge. Still, his elite speed makes him a high-upside project who could become a major weapon for Finland in the future.
• Joakim Kemell (W): A pure goal-scorer, Kemell’s greatest asset is his NHL-caliber shot, which is both quick and accurate. He complements his scoring instincts with a strong work ethic and a commitment to playing a responsible 200-foot game. His solid production in the AHL for the Milwaukee Admirals is impressive. He recorded 40 points (19 goals, 21 assists) in 65 games in 2024-25. This shows he is on a steady path to becoming an NHL contributor. He is a future offensive threat for the national team.
• Aron Kiviharju (D): He is a modern, intelligent defenseman. His game is built on elite hockey sense and sublime puck-moving ability rather than physical dominance. Kiviharju had a strong bounce-back season in 2024-25 after an injury derailed his draft year. He put up 16 points (4 goals, 12 assists) in 52 games against men in the Finnish Liiga with HIFK. He projects as a future power-play quarterback and a key puck-mover for the Leijonat for years to come.

Final Roster and Strategic Outlook

We conducted a thorough analysis of the available talent, coaching philosophy, and international context. As a result, the following 25 players represent the projected roster for Team Finland at the 2026 Olympic Winter Games.

Position	Player	Current Team	Role/Justification
Forwards
LW	Roope Hintz	Dallas Stars (NHL)	Elite speed, two-way power forward for the top line.
C	Aleksander Barkov	Florida Panthers (NHL)	Captain. Selke-trophy winner. The team’s undisputed leader.
RW	Mikko Rantanen	Dallas Stars (NHL)	Elite goal-scorer and power forward. Primary offensive weapon.
LW	Teuvo Teräväinen	Chicago Blackhawks (NHL)	High-IQ playmaker, perfect complement for skill line.
C	Sebastian Aho	Carolina Hurricanes (NHL)	Dynamic offensive driver for the second line.
RW	Patrik Laine	Montreal Canadiens (NHL)	Elite shooter, designated power-play triggerman.
LW	Artturi Lehkonen	Colorado Avalanche (NHL)	Relentless forechecker, proven playoff performer.
C	Anton Lundell	Florida Panthers (NHL)	Premier shutdown center, embodies “defense-first” identity.
RW	Mikael Granlund	San Jose Sharks (NHL)	Veteran leader, excels in international play.
LW	Eetu Luostarinen	Florida Panthers (NHL)	Key part of an elite shutdown line, versatile.
C	Jesperi Kotkaniemi	Carolina Hurricanes (NHL)	Young, responsible center for the fourth line.
RW	Joel Armia	Montreal Canadiens (NHL)	Big body, penalty-killing specialist.
F	Erik Haula	New Jersey Devils (NHL)	Versatile 13th forward, face-off and PK specialist.
F	Kaapo Kakko	Seattle Kraken (NHL)	Skill-based 14th forward with offensive upside.
Defense
LD	Miro Heiskanen	Dallas Stars (NHL)	No. 1 defenseman, elite skater, logs huge minutes.
RD	Esa Lindell	Dallas Stars (NHL)	Premier shutdown defenseman, top penalty killer.
LD	Niko Mikkola	Florida Panthers (NHL)	Physical, shutdown defenseman with championship pedigree.
RD	Rasmus Ristolainen	Philadelphia Flyers (NHL)	Heavy, physical presence for the top four.
LD	Olli Määttä	Utah Hockey Club (NHL)	Steady, reliable veteran presence.
RD	Mikko Lehtonen	ZSC Lions (NL)	Elite European puck-mover, power-play quarterback option.
D	Juuso Välimäki	Utah Hockey Club (NHL)	Mobile, reliable 7th defenseman.
D	Henri Jokiharju	Buffalo Sabres (NHL)	Puck-moving 8th defenseman with offensive instincts.
Goaltenders
G	Juuse Saros	Nashville Predators (NHL)	The undisputed No. 1 goaltender.
G	Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen	Buffalo Sabres (NHL)	Rising NHL starter, the clear No. 2.
G	Kevin Lankinen	Vancouver Canucks (NHL)	Reliable veteran, ideal No. 3.

Concluding Analysis

Finland has assembled a roster that is a legitimate gold medal contender, built upon a clear and unwavering strategic philosophy.

• Strengths: The team’s world-class depth at the center position is its greatest asset. It provides a stable, two-way foundation for all four lines. In Miro Heiskanen, they possess a true top-tier No. 1 defenseman who can tilt the ice in their favor. The entire forward group is perfectly constructed. It ranges from the elite scorers at the top to the shutdown specialists at the bottom. This lineup can execute a disciplined, “defense-first” system.
• Vulnerabilities: The team’s success hinges disproportionately on the performance of goaltender Juuse Saros. The immense pressure on him to return to his All-Star form on the international stage cannot be understated. Additionally, the blue line, while defensively sound, lacks a secondary source of elite, game-breaking offense beyond Heiskanen. This places the full weight of offensive generation squarely on the shoulders of the forward group.
• Final Verdict: The path to a second consecutive gold medal will not be paved with run-and-gun offense. Finland’s victory will come through tactical discipline, suffocating defensive structure, and the timely brilliance of its top-end offensive talent. If Juuse Saros performs to his potential, the Leijonat have a very real chance. The shutdown lines must execute their assignments. They might once again hear their national anthem play from the top of the Olympic podium in Milano Cortina.