For the first time since 2006, both men's and women's German ice hockey teams will compete in the Olympic tournament. The NHL has implemented a pause for these Olympic Games, allowing the German men's team to be fully composed of professionals from the North American league. The reigning Olympic champions are Finland for the men's competition and Canada for women.

The men's German ice hockey team has a challenging schedule ahead as they are required to play three matches in the group stage. The top teams in each group, along with the best second-placed team among the three groups, will automatically qualify for the quarter-finals, while the other eight teams will play for their chance at the quarter-finals. In their first match, the German team secured a victory against Denmark with a score of 3-1, highlighted by a swift goal from star player Leon Draisaitl just 23 seconds into the game.

Upcoming matches include a contest against Latvia, where the team narrowly lost 3-4, and a crucial match against the USA. The article also touches on the 50th anniversary of the "Miracle of Innsbruck," referencing one of the most surprising medals in German Olympic history from 1976. This Olympic event marks a significant revival for German ice hockey on the international stage, creating excitement and expectations for their performance in Milan.