Hockey Canada has revealed the roster for the upcoming IIHF Under-18 World Championship, slated to commence on April 25 in Finland. With a blend of seasoned talents and emerging prospects, the Canadian squad boasts an array of exciting names across all positions.
This event serves as a pivotal platform for NHL draft-eligible prospects, presenting them with the opportunity to either enhance or diminish their draft stock as they vie for recognition on the international stage.
Among the notable absentees from the roster are players like Macklin Celebrini, Cayden Lindstrom, Berkly Catton, and Dean Letourneau, each for their reasons, be it involvement in other championships, draft preparation, or injury rehabilitation.
The forward contingent, spearheaded by standout talents like Gavin McKenna, Porter Martone, and Liam Greentree, promises to showcase dynamic playmaking abilities and scoring prowess, setting the stage for an electrifying offensive display.
McKenna, despite his youth, has already made waves in the WHL with his stellar performances for the Medicine Hat Tigers, positioning himself as a top prospect for the 2026 NHL draft.
Meanwhile, Martone’s dominant showing in the OHL, highlighted by a prolific 33-goal season, underscores his potential to emerge as a prominent figure in the upcoming draft.
Greentree, a force to be reckoned with in the OHL, stands out as the leading scorer among the 2024 draft-eligible forwards in the team. Blessed with a blend of size, power, and skill, he is poised to make a significant impact at the U-18 championship, solidifying his status as a top prospect for the upcoming NHL draft.
The defensive unit, though perceived as a potential weak link, features promising talents like Charlie Elick, Harrison Brunicke, and Spencer Gill. Elick, expected to assume a leadership role on the blue line, brings a rugged defensive style coupled with glimpses of offensive flair, aiming to make a statement against his peers.
Brunicke, armed with exceptional skating ability and physical prowess, possesses the tools to excel on the international stage, albeit needing to iron out occasional lapses in decision-making.
Gill, despite not initially garnering first-round consideration, has the opportunity to improve his draft stock with a standout performance, leveraging his puck-moving skills to leave a lasting impression.
Between the pipes, the Canadian team relies on the tandem of Carter George and Ryerson Leenders to provide stability in goal. Both goaltenders, though not towering figures, have demonstrated exceptional shot-stopping ability in the OHL, earning accolades for their pivotal roles in guiding their respective teams to playoff berths.
As the tournament approaches, all eyes will be on Team Canada’s roster, eager to witness the emergence of future NHL stars and the impact they’ll have on their draft stock. With a blend of established talent and rising prospects, the stage is set for a thrilling showcase of hockey prowess and potential.
