Remembering Brendan Brisson’s Olympic Journey: From College Hockey to the NHL

Before NHL stars like Auston Matthews and the Tkachuk and Hughes brothers made headlines with their gold medal win at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, there was Brendan Brisson representing the United States on the global stage. Brisson, along with 14 other college hockey players, two AHL players, and eight Europe-based professionals, proudly wore the red, white, and blue jersey at the Winter Games.

At just 20 years old, Brisson skated alongside his teammates to a respectable fifth-place finish in the tournament. Reflecting on his own experience at the Olympics, watching Team USA clinch their first gold medal in 46 years was a surreal moment for the young forward.

“It was kind of strange watching this year’s Olympics, knowing that I was there four years ago,” Brisson shared in a recent interview. “It was the most special tournament in the world, and seeing the U.S. team succeed brought back a flood of memories. I felt a connection to them, having been in their shoes not too long ago. I was incredibly proud and happy for all those guys.”

As Brisson continues his hockey journey with the New York Rangers, his time at the Olympics remains a cherished chapter in his career. From college hockey to the NHL, his experience representing his country on the world stage has undoubtedly shaped him into the player he is today.