Avalanche's Devon Toews Olympic spot suddenly in jeopardy after latest breaking report
Devon Toews might have one of the wildest contract years of his life if his baby arrives at the wrong time and costs him a chance to skate for Canada in the 2026 Olympics, a family and hockey story all fans can relate to. Toews, the steady defenceman for the Colorado Avalanche, was officially named to Team Canada's Olympic roster this week, but his family plans could still throw a wrench in those long-held dreams.
Toews, 31, has been one of Colorado's most reliable skaters this season, logging solid minutes and driving play from the back end with 12 points in 38 games, yet it's the expected birth of his fourth child that could keep him home instead of in Milano Cortina.
Toews faces family timing vs Olympic play.
Sportsnet recently reported that the official due date for his wife's baby is Feb. 2, just days before Canada's opening game, and Toews has been clear he won't leave his wife's side until the baby arrives.
That stance puts Hockey Canada in a tough spot, because rosters need certainty well before puck drop. Team officials haven't publicly said how they'll handle Toews' potential absence yet, but fans and media are already debating whether Canada should name a contingency defender instead of banking on timing that could easily shift.
Canada's blueline depth has been a talking point all season, and losing a top-pair defender like Toews would force adjustments alongside Cale Makar and other projected stars.
From a fan perspective it's one of those moments that reminds people hockey is huge, but not bigger than family. The fact a player of his caliber, who finally gets the Olympic nod after strong NHL seasons and international experience, might not attend because he'd rather be with his partner for their fourth child says a lot about his priorities.
Sportsnet.ca
Sportsnet.ca
Toews' career already includes a Stanley Cup with the Avalanche and a long tenure as a dependable NHL defenseman, and now he could have another title at home, no matter how the Olympic situation plays out.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 31 | 36 ANSWERS Avalanche's Devon Toews Olympic spot suddenly in jeopardy after latest breaking report Do you think Devon Toews will make the Olympics or stay home for the birth? | ||
| Yes he'll go | 20 | 55.6 % |
| No he'll stay | 16 | 44.4 % |
| List of polls | ||