Switzerland vs Finland Prediction, Odds and Winter Olympics Men's Ice Hockey Picks for Today, 02/18/26

Team Finland suffered a surprising 4-1 loss to Slovakia in the opening game of this tournament, but has gotten back on track since then. The Finns bounced back with an impressive 4-1 win over Sweden in which 12 different skaters found the score sheet. They then took care of business against Italy by a score of 11-0 to earn a bye into the quarterfinals. Now set to face Switzerland, the Finns have the advantage in this elimination matchup.

The offensive depth from Team Finland gives them the edge over Team Switzerland. Finland boasts 4 players leading the team with 4 points in this tournament, while 5 more skaters are averaging a point per game with 3 points through 3 games. Star players such as Mikko Rantanen and Sebastian Aho are taking care of business, while role players such as Kaapo Kakko, Joel Armia and Artturi Lehkonen are stepping up in big ways. Juuse Saros has been great between the pipes, as he owns a .946 save percentage and 1.46 goals-against average through 3 starts. The Finns are extremely well-rounded and present plenty of challenges for Switzerland in this matchup.

Team Switzerland is putting together a solid tournament, but Finland’s offensive depth may be too much to handle. Switzerland has been extremely reliant on Timo Meier, who has 7 points through 3 games. The loss of Kevin Fiala is a big one, as his absence is a tough blow to Switzerland’s forward group. Swiss goaltender Leonardo Genoni has been impressive, but I’m giving Saros the advantage over the 38-year-old Genoni. In my eyes, it would take an overachieving effort from Switzerland and an underwhelming performance from Finland for Switzerland to pull off the upset. The cards would have to fall just right, and I don’t see that happening. Back Team Finland to win this matchup in regulation.