NY Islanders stars Matthew Schaefer and Bo Horvat are closing in on being named to Canada's Olympic roster

Looking back on this summer, the chances were bleak for NY Islanders players making an Olympic roster. However, due to the team's surprising start to the 2025-26 season, multiple players appear to be in contention for a spot after the final cut.

The Canadians, with the deepest pool of quality players, are reportedly down to deciding on the final five roster spots, according to Pierre LeBrun of TSN - two at forward, two on defense, and one in net.

Horvat and Schaefer are still being considered for Team Canada at the Olympics

Two of the players they are considering are Bo Horvat and Matthew Schaefer.

“I think (Macklin) Celebrini and (Tom) Wilson are on," says LeBrun. "I think then that’s a question for Team Canada to decide, can they take both Horvat and Suzuki, or one or the other?”

Horvat, who remains one of the league's leading goal scorers, recording 19 tallies, tied for seventh best in the league. His versatility on special teams and even strength make him a candidate to play in Canada’s bottom-six with offensive upside.

Then there’s Schaefer, the 18-year-old rookie sensation. Against all odds, Schaefer has deservedly put himself in the conversation for the Canadians. 

“I think the conversation within them [Canada] is, do they take him as their eighth defenseman and see where he fits from there?” LeBrun says.  “He’s just been so good, and they keep waiting for him to hit a wall as an 18-year-old, and he hasn’t hit that wall.”

After a slow start to the season, Edmonton Oilers defenseman Evan Bouchard has gotten his name back into the mix. “So, I think it’s between Schaefer and Bouchard, probably for that eighth spot,” said LeBrun.

There are 13 days remaining until the December 31st deadline. Islanders fans, who are likely to be rooting for Team USA primarily, may be taking a bit more interest in Canada’s games if Horvat and/or Schaefer make the team.