SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — In an exciting development for both local sports fans and the international hockey community, two players from the Utah Mammoths will represent their countries at the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. Captain Clayton Keller has been named to the Team USA roster, while defender Olli Määttä will compete for the Finnish national team. This marks a significant moment for both players and the Mammoths organization as they prepare for the prestigious global competition. Clayton Keller, who has emerged as one of the top scorers in the National Hockey League (NHL), expressed his elation upon receiving the news. “I didn’t really know what to say,” Keller told KUTV, reflecting on his selection to the Olympic team. “It means so much to me, and I’ve worked tremendously hard. Anytime you can represent your country, it’s the best feeling ever.” His achievement is particularly noteworthy as he is among the top 15 American scorers from both this season and the last, showcasing his consistent performance on the ice. The 2026 Winter Olympics will mark a historic return for NHL players, who missed the opportunity to compete in the 2018 and 2022 Games due to failed negotiations between the NHL and the International Ice Hockey Federation, as well as pandemic-related restrictions. This will be the first chance for these elite athletes to showcase their talents on an Olympic stage since 2014, when the games were held in Sochi, Russia. The excitement is palpable, not only for players but also for fans who have long awaited the return of NHL stars to Olympic ice hockey. Scheduled to begin on February 6, 2026, the Milano Cortina Winter Olympic Games will feature a range of winter sports, with preliminary rounds for men’s ice hockey commencing on February 11. Team USA, led by Keller, will kick off their campaign on February 12 against Latvia. The match is expected to draw significant attention, as fans eagerly await to see how the American squad, filled with NHL talent, will perform against international competition. Olli Määttä’s selection to the Finnish national team is equally noteworthy. This will be Määttä’s second appearance at the Olympic Winter Games, having previously helped Finland secure a bronze medal at the 2014 Sochi Olympics. Known for his defensive prowess and strategic play, Määttä brings valuable experience to his team. His contributions were instrumental in Finland’s success in 2014, and he aims to replicate that achievement in 2026. The Finnish national team has a storied history in international ice hockey, and Määttä’s experience will be crucial as they seek to compete against other hockey powerhouses like Canada, Russia, and Sweden. Finland’s national team has consistently performed well in international competitions, and Määttä’s leadership on the ice will be vital in their quest for Olympic glory. As the Mammoths organization prepares for the Olympics, both Keller and Määttä will continue to focus on their performance in the NHL. The Mammoths, a relatively new franchise, have been making waves in the league, and the participation of their players in the Olympics is a significant milestone for the team. It not only highlights the talent within the organization but also enhances the visibility of the franchise on a global scale. Fans and teammates alike are rallying behind Keller and Määttä as they prepare for the Olympics. The excitement surrounding their participation is palpable, with many expressing pride in seeing local athletes achieve such high honors. The Mammoths organization has been vocal in its support, emphasizing the hard work and dedication both players have demonstrated throughout their careers. In conclusion, the inclusion of Clayton Keller and Olli Määttä in the roster for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics represents a momentous occasion for the Utah Mammoths and their followers. As they gear up for this prestigious event, both players will not only be competing for medals but also for national pride, underscoring the global significance of the Olympic Games. With the anticipation building for the February 2026 start, the world of hockey will be keenly watching how these two talented Mammoths players perform on the international stage.