Clayton Keller: A Rising Star Poised for Olympic Glory

MILAN – Clayton Keller and Tage Thompson, two dynamic players, are ready to make their mark on the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. While they didn’t participate in the 4 Nations Face-Off last season, both players are now key components of Team USA, preparing for single-elimination, best-on-best hockey. Keller, with one Stanley Cup Playoff appearance under his belt, and Thompson, eager to experience the postseason for the first time, are determined to be difference-makers.

Building Chemistry and Team Spirit

Team USA’s general manager, Bill Guerin, prioritized the strong chemistry developed at the 4 Nations tournament, where the team reached the championship game. A significant 21 of the 25 U.S. Olympic players participated in that event. Keller and Thompson were logical additions, having previously played together at the USA Hockey National Team Development Program and securing a gold medal at the 2025 IIHF World Championship. The Olympic Village has further fostered camaraderie.

“This is what you live for, those games that mean something, big challenge, when there’s a lot on the line,” Thompson said. “I think that’s why we all play the game, is to play in those important games and to be a difference-maker.”

Thompson emphasized the importance of team bonding: “There’s not a lot to do but hang out with the guys, and I think that gets you closer as a team. Obviously, most of these guys were together at 4 Nations. They’ve been great to me. I know a lot of them from prior to this too, so I think that helps, but I think it’s been great so far.”

Thompson’s Impressive Season and Olympic Performance

Thompson currently leads the Buffalo Sabres with 59 points (30 goals, 29 assists) in 57 games, ranking eighth in the NHL in goals alongside Alex DeBrincat. He showcased his offensive prowess in the preliminary round with two goals in three games, tying for second on Team USA in scoring. His impressive skills were on full display in a 5-1 win against Latvia, where he skillfully backhanded the puck into the net, and in a 5-1 victory over Germany, unleashing a powerful slap shot.

“You see his bomb,” Larkin said. “Like, no one else scores from out there.”

Keller’s Impact and Potential

Keller leads the Utah Mammoth with 54 points (17 goals, 37 assists) in 57 games. After joining the lineup against Germany, he immediately impressed with his upbeat attitude and ability to fit into the team dynamic.

“Everyone was so together,” Keller said. “That was something that definitely stood out to me. I think that gives you energy, confidence. That’s, like, the bench that you want to be a part of, and we’ve got to keep it going moving forward.”

Coach Mike Sullivan praised Keller’s offensive instincts, his ability to play within structure, and his puck control, especially for a player of his size (5-foot-10, 175 pounds). Larkin even compared Keller to former Red Wings center Henrik Zetterberg, highlighting his ability to control the game’s pace and his exceptional vision.

“When he has it, you better get open, because he’s going to find you if you are,” Larkin said.

Playoff Experience and Future Aspirations

With both the Mammoth and the Sabres vying for playoff spots in their respective conferences, Keller and Thompson are gaining valuable experience in high-stakes, single-elimination games. This experience is expected to be invaluable as they compete for Olympic gold.

“That’s the most fun games,” Keller said. “The ones that you watch as a kid are these ones, so super exciting.”

You can find more information about the Men’s Hockey action at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026.