Detroit Red Wings forward Alex DeBrincat and his wife, Lyndsey, have celebrated the arrival of their third child, a baby boy, expanding their family to a happy unit of five. The heartwarming news was shared by the couple this week, marking a special personal milestone for the NHL star amidst his professional ambitions.
A New Arrival: Meet Leighton Alexander DeBrincat
The DeBrincat family announced the birth of their son, Leighton Alexander, on December 5, 2025. Lyndsey DeBrincat shared the joyful update on her Instagram on Friday, posting a series of intimate and emotional family photographs taken at the hospital. Her caption was simple yet powerful: “Our third perfect boy Leighton Alexander 12.5.2025.”
The photos captured the family's first moments together. One touching image showed Alex holding their eldest son while the newborn, Leighton, rested peacefully in a bassinet nearby. Another picture featured Lyndsey gently cradling the baby, with a beaming Alex by her side. The couple's two older sons, Archie (born May 2022) and Maverick (born February 2024), were also pictured meeting their new baby brother for the first time. Alex and Lyndsey, who began dating in 2015 and tied the knot on July 31, 2021, have now been together for nearly a decade.
Olympic Aspirations Amidst Family Celebrations
While revelling in the joy of his newborn son, Alex DeBrincat's focus remains sharply divided, with a significant part of his mind on the ice and a coveted dream: representing the United States at the 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina. The talented winger has openly expressed his desire to make the Team USA roster, though the path is challenging.
Earlier this season, DeBrincat was notably absent from the list of 44 players invited to the U.S. Olympic Orientation Camp held in August near Detroit. He admitted the snub was frustrating. “I believe I should be on that team,” DeBrincat stated in an interview covered by team media. He acknowledged the depth of American talent, saying, “I feel good right now. At the same time, there are a lot of great players, and tough choices have to be made.”
Following the camp announcement, DeBrincat had a conversation with Bill Guerin, the general manager for USA Hockey, who explained the difficulty of selection decisions. In response, DeBrincat is determined to let his performance on the ice make his case.
Overcoming Doubts and Proving His Worth
DeBrincat is aware that selectors might question his role on a star-studded Olympic team, particularly given his 5-foot-8 stature and a career minus-59 rating. He does not typically kill penalties for the Detroit Red Wings, a role often crucial in international play. However, the forward is confident in his evolved two-way game and adaptability.
“I don’t think I play soft,” DeBrincat asserted. “I can grind and defend, even with less ice time.” He believes he has grown significantly in his defensive responsibilities and can adjust his game to fit any required role. This sentiment is echoed by Red Wings head coach Todd McLellan, who has praised DeBrincat's consistency and steady performance regardless of his position in the lineup, highlighting a valuable trait for any team, including an Olympic squad.
For Alex DeBrincat, this season is a profound blend of personal happiness and professional pursuit. Between welcoming his newborn son and vigorously campaigning for a spot on the Olympic team, he is navigating a period defined by immense pride, considerable pressure, and a clear sense of purpose.
