Overview
- The U.S. men’s Olympic hockey team visited the White House and received a roughly two‑minute bipartisan standing ovation during the State of the Union.
- President Trump said the women’s champions will visit “soon,” but USA Hockey reiterated the team has not committed and any visit would be arranged after seasons conclude.
- Trump announced goalie Connor Hellebuyck will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his gold‑medal performance.
- Five players — Brock Nelson, Jackson LaCombe, Jake Oettinger, Jake Guentzel and Kyle Connor — did not make the D.C. trip, citing return‑to‑play needs or family timing.
- Players addressed ongoing criticism over a viral locker‑room call and a photo that showed a MAGA hat, with Jeremy Swayman saying the men should have reacted differently and Hilary Knight labeling Trump’s remark a “distasteful” joke.