At a Glance
- NHL will pause from Feb 6-24 for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
- Philadelphia Flyers have three players-Travis Sanheim, Rasmus Ristolainen, and Rodrigo Abols-selected for Olympic rosters.
- The team will miss 19 days of play during the break.
- Why it matters: Fans will see their stars compete on the world stage while the league takes a rare hiatus.
Philadelphia’s Flyers are preparing for a 19-day hiatus as the NHL suspends play from Feb 6 to 24 for the 2026 Winter Olympics. Three Flyers-defencemen Travis Sanheim and Rasmus Ristolainen, and forward Rodrigo Abols-have earned spots on Canada, Finland, and Latvia, respectively. The break offers the team a unique opportunity to watch its talent shine internationally.
NHL Break and Flyers’ Olympic Lineup
The league’s pause gives Flyers a 19-day window without games, aligning with the Olympic schedule. Travis Sanheim was confirmed for Team Canada, while Rasmus Ristolainen will represent Finland and Rodrigo Abols will play for Latvia.
- Travis Sanheim – Team Canada
- Rasmus Ristolainen – Team Finland
- Rodrigo Abols – Team Latvia
Player Highlights
Ristolainen, a five-season Flyers defenseman, returned to action two and a half weeks ago after healing from a second triceps tendon rupture. He last represented Finland at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey and scored a gold-winning goal at the 2014 IIHF World Junior Championship.
Rasmus Ristolainen stated:
> “Very special, Missed the last two Olympics, the NHL didn’t go, and obviously you never know what happens in four years, so it could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Very excited.”
Rasmus Ristolainen added:
> “Just been working my ass off for nine months to rehab and get healthy.”
Rasmus Ristolainen said:
> “Finland always has a chance. We’re going to go there to take it all home.”
| Player | NHL Team | Olympic Team |
|---|---|---|
| Travis Sanheim | Philadelphia Flyers | Canada |
| Rasmus Ristolainen | Philadelphia Flyers | Finland |
| Rodrigo Abols | Philadelphia Flyers | Latvia |
Key Takeaways
- NHL suspends play from Feb 6-24 for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
- Three Flyers-Sanheim, Ristolainen, and Abols-will compete for Canada, Finland, and Latvia.
- Ristolainen is set for his first Olympic appearance after a long injury recovery.
The Flyers’ Olympic journey highlights the league’s rare break and showcases the talent that will represent their countries on the world stage.
