NHL Seeks Olympic Debut on Smaller Rink, Focuses on Ice Safety to Ensure Player Safety

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The National Hockey League (NHL) remains cautiously optimistic about participating in the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, Italy, despite concerns over the smaller-than-expected rink size and ice quality. According to Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly, the NHL is working closely with Olympic officials to ensure the ice surface is safe for players. Daly stated that while the rink dimensions, which are 3 feet shorter and slightly wider than agreed upon, cannot be changed, the ice quality can be improved. The completion date for the main rink is set for February 2, just before the women's tournament begins. The NHL has offered to use its experts to assist in laying the ice surface, which is expected to be completed within 11 days. The league's primary concern is player safety, and Daly emphasized that the NHL will not participate if the ice is deemed unsafe. The NHL last participated in the Olympics in 2014. Japan's captain, Daigo Hotta, who has played in the US, noted that the rink feels 'a little soft' but improves by game time. However, the smaller rink size has been a challenge for players. Milan Cortina's head of games operations, Andrea Francisi, dismissed concerns over the rink size, citing IIHF rules and the use of similar dimensions in previous competitions. However, he acknowledged the importance of ice quality for player safety and the success of the competition. The NHL's participation in the Olympics hinges on the safety of the ice surface, with Daly expressing cautious optimism that the issue will be resolved in time for the Games.