Team USA 2026 Olympic Shakeup: Jackson LaCombe Replaces Injured Seth Jones
With the injury to Seth Jones, USA Hockey has called up 25-year-old Anaheim Ducks blueliner Jackson LaCombe. While losing a player of Jones’ caliber is a blow to the team’s experience, LaCombe’s arrival injects youth and recent international success into a squad hungry for gold.
The Winter Classic Incident
The sequence of events that led to this roster change began on January 2 during the Winter Classic. Seth Jones, a cornerstone of the Florida Panthers and a key piece of the U.S. Olympic defensive puzzle, was struck near the left collarbone by a deflected puck in the first period.
What initially looked like a painful sting turned out to be much more severe. Jones has not returned to the ice since that shift. The situation crystallized when the Panthers placed the 31-year-old on long-term injured reserve (LTIR). This move effectively ended any hope of a miraculous recovery before the Olympic break, forcing USA Hockey to pivot quickly.
Who is Jackson LaCombe?
With the Jones injury, Jackson LaCombe is stepping up to take his place. He is a 25 year old hockey player that playss the defenseman position. He is actually a breakout on the NHL’s Anaheim Ducks this year and he has been handling himself against some elite competition. LaCombe has emerged as a reliable two-way threat and is an active contributor who can help drive Team USA’s transition game.
How This Reshapes the Defense
Swapping Jones for LaCombe does change the complexion of the American blue line. Jones brought size, physical grit, and over a decade of professional experience. LaCombe brings mobility, offensive instincts, and “fresh legs.”
The coaching staff now faces the task of reshuffling defensive pairings. Jones was likely penciled in for heavy minutes in shutdown situations. LaCombe can handle defensive responsibilities, but his game is best utilized when he is allowed to skate and create. Fans should expect to see him integrated into special teams units, potentially getting looks on the second power-play unit given his scoring touch this season.
What Happens Next?
The clock is ticking. With the opening game in Milan set for February 12, there is little time for experimental practices. LaCombe will report to the Olympic camp immediately to join team preparations.
Seth Jones will remain in Florida to recover from his injury. While his Olympic dreams are on hold for now, a full recovery ensures he remains a vital asset for the Florida Panthers. For Team USA, the focus shifts entirely to Milan, finalizing line combinations, and preparing to win with the roster they have.
FAQ
Why was Seth Jones removed from the roster?
Seth Jones suffered an upper-body injury after being hit by a puck during the Winter Classic on January 2. The severity of the injury forced the Florida Panthers to place him on long-term injured reserve (LTIR), making him medically unavailable for the Olympics.
Is Jackson LaCombe experienced enough for the Olympics?
Yes. While younger than Jones, the 25-year-old LaCombe has significant experience. He is currently having a breakout season with the Anaheim Ducks and previously won a gold medal with Team USA at the 2025 IIHF World Championship.
When does Team USA play?
The team is currently finalizing preparations, with their opening game scheduled for February 12 in Milan.
Moving Forward
The timing is just unfortunate for Seth Jones. However, this is a massive opportunity for LaCombe and to be in the Olympics is a dream come true. If he can translate his current NHL momentum to the wider Olympic ice surface, he could be a breakout star. As the squad heads to Milano-Cortina, the goal remains unchanged: bringing home the gold.
