The NHL players' participation in the Winter Olympics marked their return after a significant absence of 12 years, which heightened the stakes of the hockey finals. As expected, the final match showcased teams comprised entirely of NHL players from Canada and the USA, emphasizing the strong competition fueled by talent and experience sourced from the best league in the world. The dynamics of Olympic hockey have drastically changed since the last games, when teams like Finland and Russia fought for gold without NHL involvement, underscoring the historical importance of this year's event.

The atmosphere during the gold medal final was charged, with fans proudly displaying jerseys representing both nations, particularly with a noticeable presence of Canadian support. For Canadians, winning gold in hockey is essential, overshadowing any other achievements in the sport. Additionally, the tension was accentuated by previous comments from political figures like Donald Trump, who has remarked on Canada's relationship with the US, stating it in a joking manner that Canada might as well be considered the 51st state. Such sentiments echoed throughout the arena, creating a lively backdrop for the contest.

Ultimately, the competitive spirit and national pride were palpable throughout the match as the teams battled not just for a medal but for the honor and glory of their countries. With this return, the significance of NHL players in Olympic hockey has been reaffirmed, establishing the event as a centerpiece for international hockey competition and a point of national pride for both Canada and the USA, deeply engrained in the legacy of the sport.