Nathan MacKinnon sends powerful message ahead of Winter Olympic Games.

If the Canadians weren't already motivated to capture gold in the Men's Hockey Tournament at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games, I get the sneaking suspicion that there is 1 man on that squad that will make sure everyone is as motivated as humanly possible.

Recently Nathan MacKinnon, the ultra-serious star forward for the Colorado Avalanche, spoke to the media about his plans for his Olympic adventure this month and MacKinnon's answers spoke volumes about his goals for the tournament. MacKinnon informed reporters that, while the experience may be a fun one, he does not intend to take part in that fun at all.

"I want to enjoy myself, but I’m not here to enjoy myself," said MacKinnon as per The Athletic. "I’m going to do everything I can to play well, and hopefully it’s enough and hopefully I can contribute."

Being in the Olympic Village can be a once in a lifetime experience where you can to meet all sorts of professional athletes from around the world but that doesn't sound like it will be the case for MacKinnon at this event.

"We’ve talked to some other athletes," admitted MacKinnon on Monday. "But to be honest, I just want to win gold here. It’s fun to get to know people, but at the end of the day, we’re just trying to win."

Perhaps the most telling answer came however when MacKinnon was asked about whether or not he should be taking the rare opportunity to soak in the Olympic experience.

"No," said MacKinnon flatly.

While MacKinnon's no-nonsense type of attitude may not be for everyone, I doubt very much that anyone will be questioning his methods if both he and his teammates manage to capture Olympic gold.