Former Colorado Thunderbirds defenseman Seth Jones has been named one of the first three players of the 2022 U.S. Olympic men’s hockey team.

“It’s no secret we’re excited about the prospects of our team for the 2022 games,” said Stan Bowman, general manager of the team. “Patrick (Kane), Auston (Matthews) and Seth reflect the high level of talent that will make up our final roster as we strive to bring gold back home to the U.S.”

The remainder of the 25-player team is expected to be unveiled in January. Team USA is scheduled to begin play in the Olympic tournament on Feb. 10 against host China.

Jones, 27, is making his first Olympic appearance, but has represented Team USA on the international stage on five previous occasions, most recently helping the U.S. to the bronze medal at the 2015 IIHF Men’s World Championship. He was also part of U.S. gold-medal teams at the 2013 IIHF World Junior Championship and the 2011 and 2012 IIHF U18 Men’s World Championships.

Selected fourth overall in the 2013 NHL Draft by the Nashville Predators, Jones is entering his ninth NHL season and first with the Chicago Blackhawks. The defenseman started his NHL career with Nashville before competing for the Columbus Blue Jackets.

The Plano, Tex., native was a member of USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program from 2010-12.

(October 7, 2021)