Team USA skated to a 5-1 victory over Latvia in the Group C preliminary round opening tilt of the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 at Santagiulia Arena on Thursday.

SportsLine's expert Mike Severance reveals his USA vs. Latvia picks for their Winter Olympics men's hockey matchup on Thursday

There are some nations competing in these Winter Olympics that are shaking off the rust of international play and others that are just happy to be there. The United States is certainly neither, seeking revenge for its overtime loss to Canada in the 4 Nations Face-Off final and validation for their IIHF World Championship last year.

Brock Nelson led Team USA to a commanding 5-1 victory over Latvia in their 2026 Milan Cortina Games opener, scoring twice in a dominant ice hockey performance.

Team USA knows it will take everyone to contribute if it is to get where it wants to go at the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Its championship formula was on full display in a 5-1 win against Latvia in the preliminary round opener for each team in Group C at Santagiulia Arena on Thursday.

The United States looks to get off on the right foot in Milan on Thursday, as they open up Group C play at the 2026 Winter Olympics against Latvia.

Team USA plays against Latvia in men's ice hockey at the 2026 Winter Olympics today. Fans can watch this game for free online.

Welcome to Last Word On Hockey’s Olympic Predictions. Each day, our writers here at Last Word On Hockey look at the games and give in-depth analysis. Our team breaks down the key matchups, storylines,