A Salmond Sit Down with Golden Knights defenseman Noah Hanifin ahead of the Milan Cortina Olympics

Описание: As the Vegas Golden Knights continue their push through the NHL season, defenseman Noah Hanifin is preparing for a moment that transcends the regular schedule — representing Team USA on the world’s biggest stage at the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics. Before departing for Italy, Hanifin sat down for an exclusive Salmond Sit Down to reflect on the honor, the responsibility, and what wearing the red, white, and blue truly means.

For Hanifin, the Olympic call isn’t just another accolade — it’s a childhood dream realized.

Growing up in Massachusetts, international hockey wasn’t just something he watched — it was something he envisioned himself being part of. From early mornings at the rink to becoming a top-five NHL Draft pick and now a cornerstone defenseman for the Golden Knights, Hanifin’s journey has been built on consistency, poise, and a high hockey IQ. Now, that steady presence on the Vegas blue line will be showcased on a global stage.

In our conversation, Hanifin talked about the pride of representing his country and the unique bond that forms inside a Team USA locker room. While he’s battled against many of his Olympic teammates during the NHL season, he emphasized how quickly rivalries turn into brotherhood when you’re playing for something bigger than yourself.

The Golden Knights’ system under Bruce Cassidy has sharpened Hanifin’s two-way game — his ability to defend elite speed while activating offensively fits perfectly with the international style of play. The wider ice surface in Milan-Cortina will demand strong skating and smart positioning — two areas where Hanifin thrives.

But beyond strategy and systems, this moment is about legacy.

Hanifin acknowledged how special it is to follow in the footsteps of American hockey greats who have represented Team USA in past Olympics. He also discussed the excitement of sharing the experience with family and the responsibility of inspiring the next generation of young players watching back home — especially in growing hockey markets like Las Vegas.

For the Golden Knights, his Olympic selection speaks volumes about the caliber of talent inside their locker room. For Team USA, it means adding a reliable, playoff-tested defenseman who understands high-pressure environments.

And for Hanifin personally, it’s about gratitude — gratitude for teammates, coaches, and the journey that’s led him here.

Be sure to catch this special Salmond Sit Down as Noah Hanifin opens up about chasing gold, balancing NHL responsibilities with international pride, and what this opportunity means at this stage of his career.

From Vegas to Milan-Cortina — the mission is clear: represent, compete, and bring home gold.