2026 Winter Olympics: Where to watch Team Canada vs. Czechia men’s hockey game — Free stream, TV channels, start time, who’s playing and more

The Canadian men’s hockey team will open their 2026 Winter Olympics Thursday against Czechia. It’s always significant when Team Canada takes the ice in Olympic hockey, but these 2026 Games promise to be more special than usual as its the first time since the 2014 Games in Sochi that NHL players are back playing in the Olympics, making this the most high stakes best-on-best hockey tournament in 12 years.

Naturally, with NHLers back in the fold, Canada’s roster is a stacked one, led by the dynamic centre trio of captain Sidney Crosby (Pittsburgh Penguins), Connor McDavid (Edmonton Oilers) and Nathan MacKinnon (Colorado Avalanche), who boast a combined six Hart Memorial Trophies (NHL MVP) between the three of them.

On Czechia’s side, it features a number of talented NHL players including David Pastrnak (Boston Bruins), Tomas Hertl (Vegas Golden Knights) and Martin Necas (Colorado Avalanche).

There have been five previous Olympic hockey tournaments where NHL players were allowed. Canada has won three of them, including the last two in a row in 2010 and 2014.

Playing this tournament in a Group A that also features Switzerland and France, it’s likely that Czechia will be the toughest test Canada faces in group play, meaning it will be important for it to get off to a hot start.

Here’s everything you need to know about how to watch Canada’s men’s hockey team’s Olympic opener against Czechia.

How to watch Canada vs. Czechia

Date: Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026

Puck drop time: 10:40 a.m. EST/7:40 a.m. PST

Streaming: CBC Gem, Sportsnet+, TSN

TV channel: CBC, Sportsnet One, TSN 1

Location: Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena, Milan, Italy

When and what time does Canada vs. Czechia start?

The game is scheduled to start at 10:40 a.m. EST/7:40 a.m. PST on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026.

Most networks will have some pre-game coverage beginning at 10:30 a.m. EST/7:30 a.m. PST.

What channel is Canada vs. Czechia on in Canada?

If you have a cable package, such as through Bell or Rogers, you’re covered. Just look for CBC, Sportsnet One or TSN.

How to stream Canada vs. Czechia in Canada (for free)?

You can watch the opening ceremony on CBC Gem, the public broadcaster’s free streaming service.

You can also use your TV provider login on TSN’s website to watch online. Digital services like Rogers Ignite TV and Bell Fibe are also options to access TSN, Sportsnet and CBC.

If you’re looking to use Sportsnet+, keep in mind it requires a paid subscription.

How can I watch Canada vs. Czechia on my phone or mobile device?

CBC Gem, as well as digital watch services like Rogers Ignite TV and Bell Fibe, are available through apps that you can download for most devices, such as your phone.

Who’s playing for Team Canada?

Canada’s roster is loaded top to bottom — literally — with not just NHL talent, but star NHL talent.

The roster looks like something you’d put together for an all-star team or a dream fantasy roster.

There are question marks when it comes to goaltending, but that’s an issue that can be shored up by a solid defensive framework and head coach Jon Cooper finding a goalie who looks like he can get hot during the tournament.

A full list of Canada’s roster can be found below:

Forwards

Defencemen

Goaltenders