Canada’s Olympic Hockey Playoff Push: What the Experts Predict
The 2026 Winter Olympics men’s hockey playoff bracket is set, and Canada enters as the top seed and favorite to win gold at -140. The United States follows closely behind at +180. Tuesday marks the beginning of the qualification round, with four matchups determining which teams advance to the quarterfinals on Wednesday.
Early Playoff Matchups and Odds
Tuesday’s contests feature Italy (+980) versus Switzerland (-2100), France (+550) against Germany (-820), Denmark (+320) battling Czechia (-420), and Latvia (+660) taking on Sweden (-1050). The first faceoffs are scheduled for 6:10 a.m. ET. Experts are already weighing in on potential outcomes, and savvy bettors are taking note.
Expert Analysis: Severance’s Winning Strategy
Matthew Severance, a proven hockey analyst, is sharing his insights on the playoff rounds. He recently concluded an outstanding NHL season with a record of 235-155-21, generating a significant return for those following his picks. Currently on a 26-12 roll on NHL money-line picks, Severance’s expertise is highly sought after.
Under 6.5 Goals: A Smart Bet in Latvia vs. Sweden?
Severance is specifically recommending an Under 6.5 total goals bet in the Latvia vs. Sweden matchup. This prediction is based on historical data: the two nations have faced each other five times since the 2022 Olympic Games, with four of those contests resulting in under 6.5 total goals, averaging just five combined goals per game.
Severance believes the stakes of the playoff round will influence gameplay. “There is no need to be pushing hard up three goals or the like in the third period. Save as much energy as possible. I’d probably lean Under (but no lower than 6.5).”
Beyond Tuesday: What to Expect in the Quarterfinals
The winners of Tuesday’s qualification games will join the top-seeded teams in the quarterfinals on Wednesday. While Canada and the United States are the clear favorites, upsets are always possible in tournament play. Severance also has picks for puck lines and over/under totals for all four Tuesday games, including a surprising prediction involving a team that finished last in its preliminary group.
2026 Winter Olympics Men’s Hockey Tuesday Playoff Schedule
- 6:10 a.m. ET: Italy (+980) vs. Switzerland (-2100)
- 6:10 a.m. ET: France (+550) vs. Germany (-820)
- 10:40 a.m. ET: Denmark (+320) vs. Czechia (-420)
- 3:10 p.m. ET: Latvia (+660) vs. Sweden (-1050)
(odds via FanDuel and subject to change)
Frequently Asked Questions
- When do the men’s hockey playoffs begin?
- The qualification round begins on Tuesday, February 16, 2026.
- Who is the favorite to win gold in men’s hockey?
- Canada is currently the favorite at -140.
- Where can I find more expert picks?
- Matthew Severance is sharing his full analysis and picks at SportsLine.
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Don’t miss out on the action! Stay tuned for updates and analysis as the 2026 Winter Olympics men’s hockey tournament progresses.
