The powerhouse United States open their Olympic schedule on Thursday against a Czechia squad that has risen to fourth in IIHF rankings.
My USA vs. Czechia predictions expect the tournament favorites to start their Olympics with a convincing victory.
Let’s break down my free betting picks for February 5.
USA vs Czechia prediction
USA vs Czechia Best bet: USA -3.5 (-145 at Fanatics)
USA has the shortest odds to win gold, and understandably so. Their team is loaded from top to bottom.
Headlined by Kendall Coyne Schofield, USA features four of the PHWL’s five leading point-getters. They have a ton of firepower and depth up front.
Their blueline is also more than capable of overwhelming opponents with offensive ability. Megan Keller is pacing all PWHL defenders in power play goals, goals, and points.
Meanwhile, University of Wisconsin standout Caroline Harvey is leading her team with a whopping 54 points through 26 games.
It’s going to be a monumental task to slow down this USA offense, especially if the goaltending isn’t great. And I’m not sure it will be.
Projected starter Klara Peslarova has not had the best season for Brynas. Of the 14 SDHL netminders to appear in 14+ games this season, Peslarova ranks 11th with a .913 SV%.
Tandemmate Ena Nystrom has very clearly outperformed her, posting a .937 SV% behind the same roster.
USA is likely to put up a healthy number in this contest. Even with the PWHL’s leading goal scorer, Kristyna Kaltounkova, I don’t see Czechia keeping up.
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USA vs Czechia same-game parlay
USA -3.5
Over 5.5
Given the ridiculous amount of firepower USA possesses, they’re a threat to cover this Over themselves. The team is so good that even if they roll the lines and lean on depth units more while leading, they will still generate plenty of chances.
This is the same USA team that scored 20 goals over three friendlies against Canada in November and December. They have the ability to run it up and they’ll be motivated to make a statement in their opener.
USA vs Czechia SGP
- USA -3.5
- Over 5.5
USA vs Czechia odds
- Moneyline: USA -4000 | Czechia +1100
- Puck Line: USA -3.5 | Czechia +3.5
- Over/Under: Over 5.5 | Under 5.5
How to watch USA vs Czechia
| Location | Milano Rho Ice Hockey Arena, Milano, Italy |
| Date | Thursday, February 5, 2026 |
| Puck drop | 10:40 a.m. ET |
| TV | Peacock |
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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