Expert prediction
Winter Olympics: USA vs. Slovakia Preview, Odds, and Picks (Feb 20)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
Mike Sullivan’s USA will have a date with destiny on Feb 20, as they collide with Slovakia for a place in the Gold Medal Game at the Winter Olympics. Find the odds and our picks here.
How to Watch
- When: Friday, February 20, 2026. 4:10 PM ET
- Where: PalaItalia, Milan, Italy
- How to Watch: Peacock
USA vs. Slovakia Odds
USA vs. Slovakia Head-to-Head
The USA have won three of their five Olympic showdowns with Slovakia. However, the most recent encounter between the nations was won 5-4 by Slovakia at the World Championships in 2024.
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Game Preview
The pressure will continue to increase on Mike Sullivan and his U.S. side this week, as the team aims to set up a mouth-watering showdown with Canada in the Gold Medal Game.
America required every ounce of their character to overcome a sticky challenge in the quarterfinals, narrowly beating Sweden in overtime after being pegged back in the final minute of the third period. Defenseman Quinn Hughes was the game-winning player, scoring the vital goal to keep American hopes of a first gold in the event since 1980 alive.
Mika Zibanejad was also in solid form in front of goal, scoring the opener. Morale within the camp should be high following the dramatic win, and that could be crucial as the tournament progresses.
Slovakia shouldn’t be completely overlooked by the U.S. this week. The nation won bronze at the Games in 2022, and they once again showcase their offensive quality in a routine quarterfinal win over Germany on Wednesday.
Pavol Regenda once again got the headlines, scoring twice in the win. Their dominance over European rivals in offensive areas ensure that they should be respected, but a tournament-best performance will be required to overcome the U.S.
USA vs. Slovakia Picks
We expect this to be a closer game than the odds suggest, meaning that the spread is easy to overlook. Only one goal could separate the nations, meaning that from a value standpoint, Slovakia (+2.5) makes plenty of appeal.
Free Pick:
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