Jackson LaCombe Set to Make Olympic Debut, Replacing Seth Jones
Preparation match at the PSD Bank Dome Dusseldorf for the 2023 Ice Hockey World Championships: Germany vs. USA. Photo credits: Sandro Halank.
Written By Gina Anton
USA Hockey announced Wednesday an update to its roster for the Olympic Winter Games. Florida Panthers defenseman Seth Jones, who suffered a collarbone injury on Jan. 2, was placed on long-term injured reserve and has not played since. As he recovers, Team USA has been searching for a replacement.
After deliberation, Anaheim Ducks defenseman Jackson LaCombe will be the 25th player on the roster, making him the first official replacement for any team ahead of the Winter Games. LaCombe performed impressively last May, helping the U.S. win its first gold medal at the IIHF Men’s World Championship since 1933.
This addition to the roster is particularly intriguing because of LaCombe’s ability to play in high-pressure moments against elite international competition. In last year’s World Championship semifinals, he logged nearly 30 minutes against powerhouse teams, often matching up against top scorers and shutting them down. Coaches note his aggressive gap control, crisp breakout passes, and knack for joining the rush at just the right moment, a combination that could turn close Olympic games in Team USA’s favor.
LaCombe adds an impressive defensive depth for Team USA. The 25-year-old made an immediate impact after being selected in the second round of the 2019 NHL Draft and will join seasoned defensemen Quinn Hughes, Jaccob Slavin, and Jake Sanderson on the roster. In 49 games this season with Anaheim, LaCombe has recorded 31 points, including six goals and 25 assists, making him a reliable contributor. Averaging 24 minutes per game, his skill and energy could provide Team USA with a needed edge defensively.
The tournament begins next month, marking the return of NHL players to the Olympic stage for the first time since 2014. The United States, which recently finished runner-up to Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Off, will aim to capture gold in Italy.
