Imagine the 2026 Winter Olympics without one of hockey’s most storied nations. It’s a reality we’re facing, and it’s hard not to wonder: What would a Russian Olympic hockey team look like if they were allowed to compete in Milan? Russia’s ban from international play since 2022 due to its invasion of Ukraine has left a glaring void on the Olympic stage. But here’s where it gets intriguing: What if we could still glimpse what might have been? The Athletic took on this challenge by enlisting the expertise of none other than Igor Larionov, the Hockey Hall of Famer and head coach of SKA St. Petersburg, affectionately known as ‘The Professor.’
Larionov, a legend from the 1980s Soviet powerhouse team, agreed to craft a hypothetical Russian Olympic roster—a task he approached with a mix of nostalgia and analytical precision. ‘I can be relaxed,’ he said with a smile. ‘I don’t have to worry about the pressure of real-life omissions.’ Yet, his selections were anything but casual. Larionov’s roster, which he claims is ‘at least 85 percent’ of what he’d field if he were actually coaching, is a testament to his deep understanding of the game.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Larionov’s lineup includes zero players from the KHL, Russia’s premier league. ‘I’ve been working in the KHL for four years now,’ he explained. ‘I don’t see anyone who could match the skill level of NHL players.’ This bold statement is sure to spark debate among fans and analysts alike. Is the KHL truly that far behind, or is Larionov’s perspective influenced by his current role in the league?
Let’s dive into the roster. Goalies: Larionov selected Sergei Bobrovsky, Andrei Vasilevskiy, and Igor Shesterkin, leaving off Ilya Sorokin—a decision that’s as tough as it gets. ‘There’s only one net,’ Larionov quipped. ‘You want the best of the best.’ His choices are undeniable: all three have won the Vezina Trophy, and their experience speaks for itself. Larionov even shared a lighthearted story about Shesterkin playing as a winger during a summer skate, showcasing the goalie’s versatility and skill.
Defensemen: Larionov’s eight selections blend skill, size, and experience. Notably, he replaced Alexander Romanov, who’s recovering from shoulder surgery, with Artem Zub. ‘I want players with high hockey IQ,’ Larionov emphasized. Nikita Zadorov, known for his physicality, also made the cut, but Larionov highlighted his intelligence as the real game-changer. ‘Skill trumps all,’ he said. ‘You need the mind to play with the best.’
Forwards: Here’s where Larionov’s creativity shines. He paired Montreal Canadiens rookie Ivan Demidov with NHL legend Alex Ovechkin, a combination he believes would be ‘special.’ ‘You blend experience, speed, and skill,’ he explained. At center, Larionov placed Artemi Panarin, trusting his hockey IQ to adapt. ‘The mind is the key,’ he repeated. He also included young talent like Fedor Svechkov and reliable depth players like Ilya Mikheyev, who he praised for his work ethic.
So, what would this team have achieved? Analysts suggest they’d likely be bronze medal favorites, just ahead of Sweden. With dynamic offense and elite goaltending, Russia would’ve been a wildcard, capable of upsetting Canada or the U.S. in any given match. Their presence would’ve reshaped the tournament, adding suspense to the group stage and increasing the odds of early upsets.
And this is the part most people miss: Russia’s inclusion would’ve left France out of the tournament and created more competitive groups. Group C, featuring Russia and the U.S., would’ve been a powder keg of tension. Meanwhile, Canada’s path to gold would’ve been less certain, with their odds dropping from 73 percent to 66 percent. The chance of a Canada-U.S. quarterfinal clash would’ve nearly doubled, adding even more drama.
But the biggest question remains: Is the NHL’s return to the Olympics truly complete without Russia? Their absence simplifies the tournament, but it also robs us of the unpredictability and rivalry that make hockey so thrilling. What do you think? Would Russia’s presence have elevated the competition, or is the current field just as exciting? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
