5 NHL stars who could have excelled in 2024 Paris Olympics ft. Matt Rempe at Boxing (Image Credit: Imagn)

The 2024 Paris Olympics are officially underway with a glorious opening ceremony. While the Olympics take place during summer, it doesn’t mean hockey fans can’t speculate which NHL stars could take part in the games.

So, here is a look at five NHL stars who could have competed in the Paris Olympics. These NHL stars may want to consider becoming Olympians if things don’t work out in the NHL.

5 NHL stars who could have excelled in 2024 Paris Olympics

#5: Auston Matthews, archery

Matthews is known for the best shot in the league. He can pinpoint the pick in virtually any spot he wants. He’s been able to score goals from impossible angles or find minuscule openings to beat some of the league’s best netminders.

With that pinpoint accuracy, Matthews could have excelled in archery. Instead of shooting a puck, Matthews could have shot arrows at targets. He’s got the hand-eye coordination to do it. So, why not give archery a try? It could be a good fallback option if hockey doesn’t work out for him.

#4: Nathan MacKinnon, sprinting

MacKinnon has been clocked as the fastest skater in the NHL. NHL.com reports that MacKinnon has exceeded 24 miles per hour. With that sort of blazing speed, MacKinnon could try his hand at sprinting.

Of course, he won’t be sprinting on ice. But if he’s already the fastest skater in the NHL, he could try his luck on solid ground. Perhaps he could be just as fast on the track.

#3: Joe Pavelski, golf

The recently retired Pavelski could win a medal in golf. Pavelski is an accomplished golfer. In fact, he almost chose golf over hockey when he was younger.

Now that he’s retired, perhaps Pavelski can take up golf and go for Olympic gold. At this point, the only thing separating Pavelski from the Olympics is time.

#2: Ryan Reaves, wrestling

Toronto Maple Leafs enforcer Ryan Reaves is one of the toughest customers in the NHL. He’s been known to drop the gloves at a moment’s notice. So, Reaves should try his hands in wrestling.

While Olympic wrestling is much different from that of the WWE, Reaves has the size and strength to take on the toughest guys in the league. If given the chance, Reaves could tackle just about anyone in his weight class.

#1: Matt Rempe, boxing

Speaking of tough guys, Matt Rempe could have been the star of the Paris Olympics. He’s got size, strength and a mean streak. He’s got all the elements needed to go up against world-class pugilists.

It may seem humorous, but there’s no doubt few would want to go toe-to-toe with Rempe. If the New York Rangers feel like waiving Rempe, he should step into the ring and fight for a medal at the next Olympic games.