The upcoming final pre-Olympic games in Edmonton will see the Canadian women’s hockey team welcoming back many familiar players. Scheduled for December 10 and 13 at Rogers Place, these games mark the conclusion of the 2025-26 Canada-United States Rivalry Series, commencing at 9 p.m. ET.
Out of the 25-player roster, 20 athletes who participated in the first leg of the Rivalry Series will return, aiding the Canadian staff in making crucial final roster decisions. The announcement of the 23-player Olympic team is expected in January before their first game against Finland on February 5.
Gina Kingsbury, Canadian GM, emphasized the significance of these last two games in preparing for the Milano Cortina Games, which are less than 70 days away. To evaluate potential Olympic team members, 30 players have been part of the Canadian team’s training blocks leading up to these games.
Among the notable roster additions for the upcoming games is Ottawa Charge forward Emily Clark, who will debut in the Rivalry Series after recovering from an injury that sidelined her in November. Additionally, veterans such as Jocelyne Larocque, Brianne Jenner, starting goaltender Ann-Renée Desbiens, and rookie defender Nicole Gosling have been included.
However, Vancouver Goldeneyes forward Sarah Nurse will be absent from the Rivalry Series due to a lower-body injury sustained during the team’s inaugural game. Several players who previously competed for Canada in November, including Hannah Miller, Kati Tabin, Micah Zandee-Hart, and Ève Gascon, have been excluded from the current roster.
Miller’s eligibility for Team Canada has been under scrutiny following an IIHF ruling that initially deemed her ineligible after representing the Chinese team. Hockey Canada has appealed this decision, awaiting a final verdict.
The United States currently leads the Rivalry Series 2-0 after dominant victories in Buffalo and Cleveland, outscoring Canada 10-2. Kingsbury expressed confidence in the team’s potential success as they conclude the series in front of their fans.
The final Canadian roster selection will also consider performances in the PWHL and NCAA games, with the PWHL season pausing for the Rivalry Series and resuming on December 16.
For the detailed Canadian roster, it includes key players in various positions, emphasizing the depth and talent within the team.
