Jake Oettinger Emerges as Leading Candidate for Team USA Olympic Goalie

Jake Oettinger, the Dallas Stars' goalie, has outperformed Team USA teammate and Winnipeg Jets' starter Connor Hellebuyck in the 2025 NHL playoffs and the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament, challenging Hellebuyck's status as the top American goalie. Despite Hellebuyck's accolades, including multiple Vezina Trophies, his recent playoff struggles contrast with Oettinger's strong postseason performance, marked by a high save percentage and key victories for Dallas. Oettinger has expressed that starting as the goalie for Team USA at the 2026 Olympics is a top personal goal behind winning the Stanley Cup, making a strong case for a shift in the U.S. team's goaltending hierarchy. Analysts, including Mark Lazerus, suggest Oettinger should be the preferred choice for the Olympics due to his clutch performances under pressure. Oettinger's calm demeanor and self-motivation tactics have contributed to his ability to stay focused and deliver critical saves, reinforcing his reputation as a goalie made for big moments. With the 2026 Winter Games in Milan approaching, Oettinger is positioned as a leading candidate to start for Team USA, pending continued strong play.