Canada’s defense has been good, but have also yet to be tested

The best team so far in Milan looks to be a force to be reckoned with, but how good are they?

Canada had a relatively easy time in the preliminary round of the 2026 Winter Olympics. The team won all three of its games handily, clinching the top seed heading into the quarterfinals. The Canadians also posted the best goal differential of any team in the group stage, scoring 18 goals while surrendering a measly three.

There are multiple facets that have led to the team’s success. Scoring up and down the lineup, solid defense and some good saves along the way. However, things are going to tighten up in the knockout stage.

On Monday’s edition of Daily Faceoff LIVE, Steve Peters joined Tyler Yaremchuk and Carter Hutton to praise Canada’s defense, but pointed out that tougher competition is on the horizon.

Steve Peters: When we talk about their ability to get to puck up the ice, I have to go back to the 4 Nations, because I don’t think Canada’s defense hasn’t been tested. I don’t think they’ve been tested defensively, or they’ve had to have sustained pressure for over a minute in their defensive zone. So, we don’t know how they’re going to defend. Sometimes, it’s too easy for them to get out of the zone. There is no forecheck pressure. There is nobody coming at them.

We’ve seen them turn the puck over under limited pressure, because sometimes you’re looking for that long bomb. You’re looking for the big stretch play. You get three forwards flying in the zone, and you’re trying to make a big offensive play. I know that’s going to work through this preliminary round, but when you get into the medal round, it’s going to be different. The forecheck’s going to be much more heavy. Whether it’s Sweden or the U.S. or whoever’s coming in against Canada, they’re going to have to move the puck quicker than they have. I really do. I think they’ve been looking for the perfect play. I think they need to look for the quick play. They just haven’t had to yet.

You can watch the full segment and entire episode here…