The United States begin their quest for Olympic Gold with a matchup against the Latvians.
My Latvia vs. USA predictions and free betting picks expect the latter to hit the ground running and win convincingly in their opener.
Latvia vs USA prediction
Latvia vs USA Best bet: USA -3.5 (-150 at Fanatics)
Latvia’s recent results against elite competition are telling. In the 2025 World Hockey Championship, they were outscored 15-2 over three games against Sweden, Canada, and Finland. They never scored more than one goal, and two of the losses were by a margin of six.
Finland was the lone powerhouse that failed to blow out Latvia, and they brought only five NHL players to that tournament, one of whom was a goaltender.
The United States are loaded with elite offensive talent and came just one goal shy of winning the World Cup of Hockey a year ago. Latvia won’t be able to keep up.
Latvia vs USA same-game parlay
USA -3.5
Under 6.5
Scoring goals is always a challenge for Latvia against high-end teams. It’ll be difficult for them to generate chances against a loaded USA defensive core and, even when they do, reigning Vezina winner Connor Hellebuyck will be there to slam the door.
The Latvians have competent goaltending with an NHL tandem of Elvis Merzlikins and Arturs Silovs, and will be leaning on structure to help avoid a track meet.
USA will dominate the run of play, but won’t need to score at will to cover the spread, which sets up nicely for the Under.
Latvia vs USA SGP
- USA -3.5
- Under 6.5
Latvia vs USA odds
- Moneyline: Latvia +1100 | USA -2000
- Puck Line: Latvia +3.5 (+125) | USA -3.5 (-150)
- Over/Under: Over 6.5 | Under 6.5
How to watch Latvia vs USA
| Location | Milana Santagiulia Arena, Milan, Italy |
| Date | Thursday, February 12, 2026 |
| Puck drop | 3:10 p.m. ET |
| TV | CBC, NBC |
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
