Columbus Blue Jackets Stars Jet Greaves, Denton Mateychuk, and Mathieu Olivier Set for 2026 IIHF World Championship
COLUMBUS, Ohio — Three Columbus Blue Jackets players are gearing up for the international stage as they join Team Canada and Team USA for the 2026 IIHF World Championship in Switzerland. The tournament, held in Zurich and Fribourg from May 15-31, will showcase some of hockey’s brightest talents—including rising stars and seasoned pros from the Blue Jackets’ roster.
Goaltender Jet Greaves Makes Canadian Debut
At just 25 years old, goaltender Jet Greaves is set to make his first appearance for Team Canada. Greaves has been a standout performer for the Blue Jackets, becoming only the fifth goaltender in franchise history to record 25 wins in a single season. During the 2025-26 campaign, he posted a 26-19-9 record with a 2.60 goals-against average and a .908 save percentage, including two shutouts in 55 games.
Since his NHL debut in the 2022-23 season, Greaves has solidified his reputation as a reliable netminder, boasting a career record of 36-28-11 with a 2.61 GAA and .913 save percentage. His inclusion on Team Canada marks a major milestone in his young career.
Denton Mateychuk Brings Gold Medal Pedigree to Canada
Defenseman Denton Mateychuk, 21, will also don the Canadian jersey in his first IIHF World Championship. Mateychuk is no stranger to international success—he previously helped Canada secure gold at the 2021 IIHF U18 World Championship and was named a Top Three Player at the 2024 World Juniors.
This past season, Mateychuk set career highs with 13 goals, 18 assists, and 31 points while averaging over 19 minutes of ice time per game. His strong two-way play and offensive contributions make him a key asset for Canada’s blue line.
Mathieu Olivier Joins Team USA for First Time
Veteran forward Mathieu Olivier, 29, will represent Team USA in his first international tournament. Known for his physical play, Olivier led the Blue Jackets in hits (209) and penalty minutes (101) last season while also contributing 15 goals and 11 assists—his second straight year with double-digit goals.
Olivier, who began his NHL career with the Nashville Predators in 2019, has carved out a role as a hard-nosed winger. In 311 career games split between the Predators and Blue Jackets, he has tallied 46 goals, 46 assists, and 479 penalty minutes. His grit and experience will be valuable for the American squad.
A Proud Moment for the Blue Jackets
Having three players selected for the World Championship is a testament to the Blue Jackets’ growing talent pool. Greaves and Mateychuk’s inclusion highlights Canada’s trust in the franchise’s young core, while Olivier’s selection underscores his impact as a veteran presence.
Fans in Columbus will be watching closely as their players compete against the world’s best in Switzerland. The tournament kicks off on May 15, with all eyes on whether Greaves, Mateychuk, and Olivier can help their countries secure hockey glory.
— Reported by Nexio News
