The World Junior Championship remains one of the most revealing tournaments in hockey, offering a unique intersection of elite talent, developmental variance, and high-pressure international play. With this year’s tournament set in Minnesota, players will be challenged not only by the quality of competition but also by the intensity that comes with playing on North American ice and, for some teams, hostile or unfamiliar environments. Rosters are shaped as much by age curves, role acceptance, and structural discipline as they are by raw skill, making projection and context critical when evaluating team outlooks. This primer approaches the IIHF World Junior Championship through a scouting-driven lens, focusing on roster construction, player roles, and realistic paths to success rather than medal predictions alone. With a mix of established contenders, transitional teams, and developing programs, this year’s tournament should provide a clear snapshot of where each nation stands both competitively and within its broader development cycle.
Group A:
🇺🇸 United States
Scout: Josh Tessler
The United States enters this World Junior Championship with one of the most balanced and deliberately constructed rosters in the tournament. Rather than leaning on a single dominant line, the Americans are built to roll four units with defined roles, allowing them to control pace, manage matchups, and avoid overexposure in any one area. The forward group is orchestrated around strong center play, layered with power elements and reliable transitional wingers, creating a lineup that can sustain pressure without relying on track-meet hockey.
Down the middle, the group is led by James Hagens, whose ability to drive play through the center of the ice anchors the entire forward structure. Hagens combines pace, vision, and control, allowing his line to dictate tempo rather than react to it. Behind him, the Americans boast strong depth with Max Plante, Cole McKinney, and AJ Spellacy all capable of handling meaningful minutes. McKinney in particular plays a high-paced, puck-driving game, pushing play through transition and supporting possession with energy and awareness rather than extended puck dominance.
On the wings, the Americans are flush with skill and finishing ability. Cole Eiserman provides elite shooting talent and goal-scoring instincts, while LJ Mooney and Ryker Lee add playmaking value without needing to function as primary puck carriers. This allows the forward group to stay connected, with puck movement flowing through the middle and into space rather than stagnating on the perimeter. Even players such as Teddy Stiga, who has at times been used in a bottom-line role, and Kamil Bednarik, who has rotated in and out of the lineup, underline just how much skill is distributed throughout the roster.
Defensively, the Americans are well equipped to support that balance. Cole Hutson is expected to receive top billing on the blue line and will quarterback the first power-play unit, providing dynamic puck movement and offensive creativity. Importantly, the Americans are not dependent on a single power-play driver. Logan Hensler and Chase Reid both offer strong puck-moving ability further down the lineup, allowing the U.S. to maintain structure and clean exits regardless of pairing deployment.
Goaltending is the one area where the Americans are less imposing relative to the rest of the roster. Caleb Heil is expected to get the first opportunity in net, supported by Nick Kempf and Brady Knowling. Heil brings solid athleticism and has been effective at this level before, though his game can still lack refinement at times, leading to occasional gaps. That said, the defensive depth and puck-moving capability in front of him should help limit high-danger chances, particularly in games where the Americans are able to dictate play. One notable omission from the roster is Cullen Potter, whose pace and skill could have fit well within this system.
Overall, the United States profiles as a team built to win through balance, structure, and depth rather than overwhelming opponents with singular star power. If the goaltending can provide steady, unspectacular results, this roster has the tools to control games and make a deep run.
🇸🇪 Sweden
Scout: Alex Appleyard
Sweden enters the World Junior Championship once again as a perennial contender, carrying both the weight of history and the frustration of repeated near-misses. Only Canada and Russia/USSR have medalled more often than the Swedes, yet the disparity between their twelve silver medals and just two golds remains a lingering sore point. Despite reaching the semi-finals in seventeen of the last nineteen tournaments, Sweden has developed a reputation for falling just short when pressure peaks, a narrative reinforced by recent heartbreaks in both medal and final-round games.
This year’s Swedish roster is, as expected, deep, experienced, and well-rounded, with much of the lineup already playing — and in many cases excelling — at the professional level. Head coach Magnus Hävelid, back for his fourth World Juniors, has constructed a team designed to score by committee while maintaining composure through all three zones. With extensive experience at the junior international level, Hävelid will be keenly aware that this group may represent one of his final opportunities to guide Sweden to gold.
The strength of this team lies primarily in an electric forward group. Ivar Stenberg headlines the roster and enters the tournament as one of the top candidates for the first overall selection in the upcoming NHL Draft. A high-IQ winger with elite playmaking ability, Stenberg is already capable of fitting into an NHL lineup thanks to his well-rounded game and decision-making. Anton Frondell, selected third overall in the 2025 Draft, complements that skill with elite off-puck intelligence and an uncanny ability to find danger areas, making him a player who can tilt games when he is on form.
Sweden’s forward depth extends well beyond its headliners. Viktor Eklund returns as the lone holdover from last year’s forward group and remains a potential game-breaker despite inconsistent puck luck at the SHL level. The middle six features a collection of NHL-drafted forwards who are proven against men, including Lucas Pettersson, Milton Gästrin, Eddie Genborg, Jack Berglund, and Eric Nilson. Draft-eligible Viggo Björck adds another layer of high-end creativity and could emerge as a key contributor despite often being overshadowed by Stenberg.
On the back end, Sweden’s defense lacks the flash of its forward group but compensates with professionalism and reliability. Leo Sahlin Wallenius is expected to log heavy minutes in all situations, offering excellent puck distribution and calm decision-making. Sascha Boumedienne, who set records at the U18 level, brings offensive upside, though his role appears more restrained at this tournament. Viggo Gustafsson returns as a stabilizing presence, while draft-eligible William Håkansson provides intriguing long-term upside.
In goal, Love Härenstam enters the tournament in strong form after significant development since being drafted by St. Louis, establishing himself as one of the top performers in HockeyAllsvenskan. He is backed by Herman Liv and Måns Goos, giving Sweden one of the more dependable goaltending trios in the field.
Sweden has the depth, experience, and offensive talent to beat any opponent in the tournament. The lingering question remains whether this group can finally convert those strengths into gold rather than another near-miss. They should never be out of a game, but breaking through will depend on composure when the stakes are highest.
🇸🇰 Slovakia
Scout: Josh Tessler
Slovakia enters this World Junior Championship with a noticeably younger roster than the group that competed a year ago. Last year’s team leaned heavily on older, established contributors such as Dalibor Dvorský, Juraj Pekarčík, Miroslav Šatan, and Maxim Štrbák. In contrast, this year’s squad features far fewer 2006-born players and is driven primarily by 2007s, with a couple of 2008s mixed in. The result is a group that may lack some immediate polish but offers balance, versatility, and long-term upside if roles settle quickly. Slovakia’s path to success is less about star power and more about structural discipline, low-event hockey, and surviving long enough for variance to matter.
Up front, Slovakia’s forward group is built around mobility, puck movement, and interchangeable roles rather than pure size or one-dimensional scoring. Michal Švrček remains one of the more reliable pieces in the lineup, bringing strong off-puck habits, defensive awareness, and the ability to win battles along the boards. He is comfortable playing wing, supports well through the neutral zone, and consistently makes smart, low-risk decisions when under pressure. Švrček’s game is built on pace, positioning, and details, making him a stabilizing presence even when used in lower-minute roles.
Tomáš Pobežal adds creativity and control down the middle. Though undersized, Pobežal is a confident puck carrier who dictates play in the offensive zone, regularly navigating traffic to access the slot or distribute through tight seams. He often serves as the primary puck mover on his line and is willing to attempt difficult passes when plays are developing quickly. His awareness and offensive instincts make him a key driver, particularly on controlled entries and sustained possession.
Versatility is a defining theme of Slovakia’s lineup, and Andreas Straka embodies that well. Capable of playing both center and wing, Straka is a reliable playmaker who has found success in the QMJHL executing through tight passing lanes. On the power play, he provides value along the half-wall as a distributor and can also function effectively as a bumper, giving Slovakia multiple looks within the same personnel grouping. Tobias Tomík further reinforces that flexibility, offering strong puck transport through the neutral zone and the ability to slide between center and wing depending on matchup needs.
Among the more offensively inclined forwards, Tomáš Chrenko stands out as a draft-eligible player with pace and skill. Chrenko plays with an active motor, attacks defenders confidently, and can generate offense off movement rather than extended possession. While there are questions about whether his long-term projection fits best at center or on the wing, his ability to create scoring chances and push tempo gives Slovakia an important secondary offensive option. Adam Nemec and Ján Chovan round out a forward group that may not overwhelm opponents with star power but can apply pressure through pace, structure, and depth.
On defense, Slovakia opens the tournament with a notable lineup decision. Luka Radivojević will sit for Game 1, with the coaching staff opting to start Filip Kovalčík alongside Andrej Fábus as the top pairing. Kovalčík provides mobility and puck-moving reliability, while Fábus brings a more physical, stabilizing presence. Radivojević remains an important depth option and potential adjustment piece as the tournament progresses, particularly if Slovakia looks to inject more pace and transition play from the back end. Overall, the Slovak blue line emphasizes structure and gap control over high-risk offensive activation.
In goal, Slovakia leans on Michal Prádel, who returns after appearing in last year’s tournament. Prádel brings familiarity with the pace and pressure of the event and will be relied upon to provide stability behind a young roster. Slovakia also has depth in net with Alex Lendák and Roberto Leonardo Henriquez, the latter of whom showed intriguing traits in his draft year and could push for opportunities if the situation calls for it.
This Slovak team may not carry the same immediate expectations as last year’s older group, but it is well-balanced and adaptable. With strong positional versatility, responsible play through the middle of the ice, and enough skill to capitalize when chances arise, Slovakia has the profile of a team that can grow into the tournament. If goaltending holds and the young core settles quickly, a deeper run than expected is well within reach.
🇨🇭 Switzerland
Scout: Iván Ortiz
Switzerland enters this World Junior Championship as a competitive but fragile group, one that will once again need to manage game state carefully to avoid being pulled into unfavorable matchups. A win in last year’s final group-stage game allowed the Swiss to reach the quarterfinals, where they were eliminated by the United States, though they showed resilience in narrow losses against Slovakia and Sweden. This year’s outlook remains similar. Switzerland projects as a team capable of hanging around games but will need to win the margins to avoid slipping into relegation danger, particularly in matchups against Slovakia and Germany. The loss of Leo Braillard removes a notable offensive contributor from the cycle, increasing pressure on the remaining forward group to generate enough scoring.
In goal, the crease once again figures to be a defining variable. Elijah Neuenschwander and Christian Kirsch are expected to battle for starts, with both facing the reality that goaltending for teams like Switzerland is often about damage control rather than dominance. Shot volume will be high, and one poor outing can quickly derail momentum. That places additional importance on the defensive structure in front of them.
Defensively, Switzerland brings a group that emphasizes reliability and physical engagement over offensive creativity. Leon Muggli should lead the unit if fully fit after dealing with physical issues earlier in the season. He is supported by more defense-oriented options such as Basile Sansonnens, whose game will need to be at its sharpest given the importance of limiting second chances. Ludvig Johnson, drafted by Utah, adds composure and puck movement from the back end, providing a blend of confidence and defensive reliability. Additional responsibility will fall on players like Daniil Ustinkov and Gus Van der Kaaij, who must maintain discipline and avoid costly breakdowns. While creativity from the blue line is limited, the group is built to prioritize structure over risk.
Up front, Switzerland lacks a clear-cut offensive driver but does feature several players capable of contributing within defined roles. Lars Steiner is expected to serve as the primary offensive reference point, though his season has also been interrupted by physical issues. Jamiro Reber, playing in his third World Juniors, brings experience and familiarity with the pace of international competition. Scouts will also closely monitor Jonah Neuenschwander, who at just 16 years old is appearing in his second World Juniors. His size, hands, and skill set make him a long-term prospect of interest, even if immediate impact is limited.
Given the types of games Switzerland is likely to play, contributions from energy and detail-oriented forwards will be critical. Players such as Robin Nico Antenen and Mike Aeschlimann are expected to disrupt, forecheck, and create secondary chances, while Paul Mottard will need to capitalize when opportunities arise. Kimi Körbler brings valuable North American experience after adapting to the OHL game, and Lenny Giger enters motivated to respond after going undrafted. These players may not drive offense, but their consistency away from the puck will shape Switzerland’s ability to stay competitive.
Ultimately, Switzerland’s path forward is familiar. They must find stability in goal, remain disciplined defensively, and extract offense through effort, structure, and opportunistic finishing rather than sustained pressure. The roster carries experience, with nearly all players aged 18 or older, which may help on the mental side of a short tournament. However, without a true offensive centerpiece, Switzerland’s margin for error remains thin, and consistency across all three zones will determine whether they can once again survive the group stage.
🇩🇪 Germany
Scout: Josh Tessler
Germany enters this World Junior Championship with a more stable and coherent roster than in recent years, built around continuity rather than turnover. While several key contributors from last year, including Julius Sumpf and Edwin Tropmann, have aged out, the Germans return an identifiable core led by Maxim Schäfer, David Lewandowski, and Carlos Händel. That continuity should allow Germany to play with more composure and clarity, even if the overall ceiling remains limited compared to the tournament’s top contenders.
Up front, Germany’s offensive approach is defined by net-front presence, puck distribution, and the ability to exploit secondary scoring lanes rather than sustained puck dominance. Schäfer provides the most consistent physical element in the forward group, regularly getting to the net front and capitalizing on back-door opportunities through redirects and tip-ins. He also offers reliable distribution from the umbrella on the power play, giving Germany a clear focal point in set offensive situations.
Down the middle, Elias Schneider serves as a connective playmaker who looks to push play into dirty areas and distribute into his teammates’ skating lanes. His game is built around pace and movement rather than holding possession, helping Germany keep plays flowing through the middle of the ice. Gustavs Griva adds another layer of playmaking support, showing good awareness along the half-wall and strong distribution from low-danger areas. Griva is effective at getting open down low, providing outlets below the red line, and identifying passing lanes to the net front as plays develop.
Lewandowski profiles as more of a complementary piece within that structure. He plays with decent pace for his frame, brings a physical element, and looks to finish checks consistently. While he is not the most fluid puck mover and can be prone to coughing up possession under pressure, his distribution is serviceable and his value comes primarily through forechecking, physical engagement, and bottom-six utility rather than offensive creation.
On the back end, Händel anchors a defensive group that prioritizes structure over creativity. His game is defined by steady positioning, frequent D-to-D movement, and an emphasis on clogging the middle of the ice. While his offensive upside is limited and his puck movement is conservative, he brings grit along the half-wall and can effectively shut down rushes when play funnels toward the boards. Germany’s defense is unlikely to generate much offense, but it is capable of keeping games manageable if breakdowns are minimized.
In goal, Linus Vieillard is expected to lead the crease after earning three starts at last year’s World Juniors and performing well. His familiarity with the tournament environment provides Germany with some stability in net, though the team will rely heavily on structure in front of him rather than expecting goaltending to steal games outright.
Overall, Germany’s path to success lies in staying organized, avoiding track-meet style games, and capitalizing on net-front and back-door opportunities when they arise. They are unlikely to overwhelm opponents with skill, but with continuity, defined roles, and disciplined play, they have enough structure to remain competitive and avoid being overmatched.
Group B:
🇫🇮 Finland
Scout: Iván Ortiz
Finland enters this World Junior Championship with a clear sense of unfinished business after last year’s tournament ended in heartbreak. The Finns fell to the United States in overtime in the gold medal game after holding a 3–1 lead, despite also defeating the Americans during the group stage. That experience, combined with the continuity throughout the roster, fuels a strong desire for redemption. The most notable storyline surrounding this year’s team is the absence of Konsta Helenius, a significant omission that will inevitably draw scrutiny. Even so, Finland remains a well-rounded, structured group capable of competing with anyone if execution holds.
Up front, Finland brings a balanced forward group built around hockey IQ, two-way reliability, and layered offense rather than pure individual dominance. Jesse Kiiskinen, last year’s leading scorer for Finland, returns as a key offensive reference point and will once again be leaned on to provide production. Matias Vanhanen has emerged as one of the team’s primary playmakers, showcasing excellent vision and distribution in Everett, where his assist totals highlight his ability to elevate linemates. Finland will need players with finishing ability to capitalize on that playmaking, particularly Emil Hemming, who is expected to assume a larger offensive role in Helenius’ absence, especially on the power play where shot generation from the flank becomes increasingly important.
Additional offensive layers come from players such as Jasper Kuhta, who can generate shot volume off quality passes, and Julius Miettinen, Vanhanen’s Everett teammate, who brings consistency and support play. Finland will also look for internal growth from its dependable two-way forwards. Max Westergård plays at a consistently high intensity and continues to add layers to his game, while Aatos Koivu and Heikki Ruohonen are players who could break out offensively if given the opportunity. Ruohonen in particular blends strength, playmaking, and defensive awareness, fitting well within Finland’s identity.
Defensively, Finland once again leans on familiarity, structure, and clean exits. Aron Kiviharju anchors the blue line and will be relied upon to log heavy minutes in all situations, motivated to reassert himself after an uneven stretch developmentally. He is supported by returning contributors such as Daniel Nieminen, Mitja Jokinen, and Veeti Väisänen, a group that knows how to function within Finland’s defensive framework. The emphasis will be on limiting mistakes and managing space, particularly against heavier, more physical opponents who can test Finland’s willingness to engage below the dots.
Looking ahead, there will also be attention on draft-eligible defensemen Juho Piiparinen and Oliver Suvanto. Piiparinen’s steady, low-risk game adds stability to the back end, while Suvanto will be tasked with showing that his pro-ready frame and solid Liiga season can translate to quicker decision-making at international speed.
In goal, Finland’s fortunes once again run through Petteri Rimpinen, who was named Best Goaltender of the tournament last year after posting a .933 save percentage. His calm, controlled style is ideally suited for Finland’s defensive structure, and his ability to provide consistency rather than heroics allows the team to stay within its system. With an experienced and disciplined defense in front of him, Rimpinen remains one of the most reliable netminders in the tournament.
Overall, Finland profiles as a team defined by cohesion, structure, and collective responsibility. While the absence of Helenius removes some top-end offensive certainty, the roster features enough skill, familiarity, and internal growth potential to remain a legitimate contender. Success will depend on sustained offensive contributions from multiple sources and continued excellence in goal, but this is a group well-equipped to challenge for a deep run once again.
🇨🇿 Czechia
Scout: Alex Appleyard
Czechia enters this World Junior Championship as one of the tournament’s most intriguing dark horses. After capturing the bronze medal last year, the Czechs return with a roster built on continuity, size, and layered talent. Several contributors from last year’s medal-winning group are back, complemented by a strong 2007 age class that adds further upside. Many players also bring silver medal experience from consecutive Hlinka-Gretzky Cup final appearances, giving this group a familiarity with high-pressure international environments. When things click, Czechia has the ability to challenge any opponent in the field.
The identity of this team is defined by its imposing defensive corps paired with a deep, structured forward group. All four lines are capable of contributing, while the blue line is built to control games physically without sacrificing puck movement. That balance gives Czechia a high floor and a dangerous ceiling if they receive adequate play in goal.
Up front, Czechia returns several key offensive drivers from last year’s tournament. Petr Sikora, a Washington Capitals prospect, brings a fiery, versatile game and nearly 100 games of professional experience. He produced at a point-per-game pace at last year’s World Juniors and remains one of the team’s most reliable two-way forwards. The most dynamic offensive talent on the roster, however, is Adam Benák, who makes his World Juniors debut this year. Benák brings elite creativity and playmaking ability and has repeatedly shown the capacity to take over games at the international level. Despite his modest stature, his vision and competitiveness make him a true game-breaker.
Václav Nestrašil adds a significant physical and offensive presence on the wing. The former first-round pick has transitioned seamlessly to the NCAA and continues to show rapid development, combining size, puck protection, and improving offensive instincts. Adam Novotný, a key prospect for the 2026 NHL Draft, brings pro-pace tools and strong transitional ability, while Max Curran, a Colorado Avalanche prospect, provides high-end playmaking intelligence and complements the group well. Czechia’s depth forwards include established professionals and top-six CHL players, underscoring the difficulty opponents will have in finding favorable matchups.
On the back end, Czechia once again features one of the largest and most physically imposing defensive groups in the tournament. Adam Jiříček, a first-round pick of the St. Louis Blues in 2024, returns after being one of Czechia’s most effective defensemen at last year’s tournament. He has continued to show growth in the OHL, particularly in power-play situations where his puck distribution and poise stand out. Jakub Fibigr, a smooth-skating Seattle Kraken prospect, also returns after a strong showing a year ago and brings mobility and transition ability to the blue line. Tomáš Galvas provides professional reliability from the Czech Extraliga and remains a steady presence despite having gone undrafted twice.
The focal point of the defense, however, is Radim Mrtka, a top-10 NHL draft pick whose availability is currently touch-and-go due to injury. When healthy, Mrtka is a true do-it-all defenseman with size, skating ability, and impact in all three zones. His presence dramatically raises the ceiling of the Czech blue line, but any limitation or absence would test the group’s depth and force adjustments in usage. Regardless, the overall defensive unit remains towering, with four defensemen standing over 6’5” and additional size throughout the lineup.
Goaltending represents the primary question mark for this Czech team. Expected starter Jakub Milota, a Nashville Predators prospect, is unavailable due to injury, placing the responsibility on Matyáš Mařík. Mařík has been solid at the Czech U20 level and has seen action in the Extraliga, but he has yet to consistently replicate that form in international play. Ondřej Štěbeták and Michal Oršulák remain available as alternatives, though neither profiles as a clear top-tier U20 netminder.
If Czechia receives stable goaltending and Mrtka is able to contribute at or near full strength, a return to the semifinals should be a realistic expectation. Group play will be highly competitive, with seeding battles looming against Canada and Finland, but Czechia’s combination of size, depth, and structured play once again positions them as a legitimate medal contender.
🇨🇦 Canada
Scout: Thomas Gagné
Canada enters this World Junior Championship as the consensus favorite to win the tournament. After suffering quarterfinal exits in back-to-back years, both times at the hands of a heavy, structured Czechia squad, Hockey Canada has shifted its approach. Rather than prioritizing experience and defensive conservatism, this roster leans heavily into high-end skill and offensive firepower. On paper, it is Canada’s most dynamic group since 2023, when Connor Bedard dominated the tournament. While the upside is obvious, this roster also carries some volatility, particularly in discipline and defensive consistency, which could prove costly under IIHF rules if not properly managed.
Offensively, Canada’s depth is unmatched. Every forward on the roster is a former first-round NHL draft pick, giving the team elite talent across all four lines. With Berkly Catton unavailable, the center position is anchored by Michael Misa, who brings NHL experience, strong two-way play, and legitimate top-line offensive ability. Misa is capable of driving play in all three zones and elevating the performance of his linemates. Slotted behind him is Michael Hage, a Hobey Baker candidate whose improvements in defensive play and reliability earned him a prominent role down the middle. Hage’s intelligence and puck support provide balance to Canada’s top six.
On the wings, Canada leans on size, skill, and physical presence. Porter Martone is the engine of this forward group, combining power, puck protection, high-end skill, and defensive engagement at a level few teams can match. He is expected to be one of the primary drivers of Canada’s offense. Brady Martin brings similar power-forward elements and has already shown he can translate his game effectively at the international level. Gavin McKenna will be one of the most scrutinized players in the tournament. The elite playmaker possesses rare creativity and vision, and when he is on his game, he can tilt the ice on his own. His performance will be closely watched as part of the broader discussion surrounding the 2026 NHL Draft. Iginla adds finishing ability and versatility, capable of fitting anywhere in the lineup while providing consistent goal-scoring touch.
Canada’s bottom six is far from a traditional checking unit. Skill-driven forwards such as Cole Reschny and Liam Greentree complement a physically imposing, high-motor group that includes Cole Beaudoin, Jett Luchanko, Braeden Cootes, and Sam O’Reilly. This group should provide strong penalty killing, relentless forechecking, and secondary scoring, though discipline will be a point of emphasis given the stricter officiating standards at the IIHF level.
The biggest concerns for Canada lie on the back end. Among the defenders expected to play significant minutes, Harrison Brunicke stands out as the most reliable all-around option. A powerful skater who has continued to progress since his draft year, Brunicke should be leaned on heavily in difficult matchups. Zayne Parekh brings elite offensive ability and is one of the few defensemen in the tournament capable of rivaling the top power-play quarterbacks. However, his defensive game remains inconsistent, and opponents may look to exploit that weakness. Cameron Reid complements Parekh well, sharing puck-moving responsibilities and helping facilitate clean transitions. Ben Danford provides a stabilizing presence, offering physicality, defensive awareness, and reliable minutes in tough situations. Overall, Canada’s blue line is offensively gifted but will require collective buy-in defensively to avoid high-risk breakdowns.
In goal, Canada is anchored by Carter George, who returns after delivering one of the strongest performances by a Canadian netminder in recent tournament history. His calm demeanor and ability to manage high-pressure moments give Canada confidence in net. Jack Ivankovic provides capable support, while Joshua Ravensbergen rounds out a deep goaltending group.
This Canadian roster is built to overwhelm opponents with skill, depth, and pace. If discipline holds and the defense limits costly mistakes, Canada has all the tools required to reclaim gold. The margin for error is smaller than it appears, but the ceiling of this group remains the highest in the tournament.
🇱🇻 Latvia
Scout: Iván Ortiz
Latvia was one of the most pleasant surprises at last year’s World Junior Championship, highlighted by a dramatic opening shootout win over Canada and a highly competitive quarterfinal showing against Sweden. Much of that success was driven by timely scoring and elite goaltending, allowing Latvia to punch above its weight throughout the tournament. This year’s group, however, arrives with a different challenge, as several of the key drivers from that run are no longer in the lineup. Head coach Artis Ābols has emphasized a collective approach, stressing the importance of “winners, not heroes,” as Latvia looks to find new difference-makers within the group.
The most significant void comes in goal. Replicating the impact of last year’s netminding will be difficult, and Latvia enters the tournament without a clear-cut answer in the crease. Mikus Vecvanags, a Montreal draft pick, is currently the third goaltender in Newfoundland, while Maurins and Kufterins do not arrive with particularly strong statistical profiles. As a result, Latvia’s defensive structure will be under pressure to limit quality chances and keep games manageable. A single off night in goal could drastically alter their tournament outlook.
On the blue line, Latvia does have reasons for optimism. Alberts Smits is the breakout name and the player most likely to draw attention from scouts. Currently enjoying a strong season in Liiga, Smits brings fluid skating, offensive instincts, and an aggressive mindset that could give Latvia an added dimension from the back end. That said, his puck carries will need to be managed carefully to avoid exposing the team defensively. Darels Uljanskis, a seventh-round pick by Anaheim, provides a more balanced profile and should help stabilize the unit. Injuries have been a concern, with Uljanskis and Dmitrijs Dilevka both recently returning to action, making health a key variable heading into the tournament.
Offensively, Latvia brings a respectable foundation, though it comes with question marks. Bruno Osmanis returns with prior World Juniors experience and will likely shoulder a significant portion of the offensive load. The tournament also represents a potential redemption opportunity for Osmanis after going undrafted, as he remains a smart, mobile player capable of contributing in multiple facets of the game. Olivers Murnieks, once viewed as a potential first-round pick for the upcoming draft, brings high-end offensive tools but is returning from a concussion, as is Daniels Serkins. Both featured in pre-tournament action, suggesting they are ready to contribute, but their ability to regain form will be critical. Additional scoring could come from Markuss Sieradzkis, who provides finishing volume when chances present themselves.
Latvia’s depth includes several intriguing younger players. Rudolfs Berzkalns, a 2026 draft-eligible standing 6’4”, is in his second season in Muskegon and committed to Boston College, while Roberts Naudins, a towering 6’6” power forward eligible in 2027 and committed to Harvard, enters his second World Juniors after gaining valuable experience last year. With the initial shock of debut behind them, particularly in Naudins’ case, the question becomes whether either can expand their impact beyond size and physical presence.
Latvia arrives with an experienced group that no longer has the luxury of leaning on a single dominant scorer or goaltender. Their success will hinge on defensive commitment, improved stability in net, and meaningful offensive steps forward from players like Smits and Osmanis. Opening the tournament once again against Canada provides an immediate test, and while expectations should remain measured, Latvia has shown before that disciplined, connected hockey can keep them competitive against even the tournament’s strongest opponents.
🇩🇰 Denmark
Scout: Alex Appleyard
Between 2008 and 2019, Denmark was a regular presence at the top level of the World Junior Championship. In seven of those twelve tournaments, the Danes competed in the main group and built a reputation as a difficult out, capable of springing upsets regardless of roster strength. That era included memorable moments such as wins over Finland and Czechia in 2017, multiple years as Switzerland’s bogey team, and a 2016 quarterfinal where Denmark came within minutes of eliminating Russia. Over that stretch, the program produced a steady stream of NHL talent, including Frederik Andersen, Lars Eller, Mikkel Bødker, Oliver Bjorkstrand, and Nikolaj Ehlers.
Since Ehlers was drafted in 2014, however, Denmark’s junior talent pipeline has thinned considerably. From 2020 through 2022, no Danish players were selected in the NHL Draft, and the national U20 team has not appeared at the top World Juniors level since before the COVID-19 disruptions. That context frames expectations for this year’s group, which returns to the main stage with limited margin for error.
This roster is built around the lone NHL-drafted player on the team, Mads Kongsbak Klyvø, a Florida Panthers prospect. Kongsbak Klyvø is a high-motor scoring winger who leads with pace and competitiveness and will be relied upon heavily in offensive situations. There are some fitness questions entering the tournament after he missed the early portion of the season due to injury and only returned to action in mid-December, but when healthy he remains Denmark’s most dangerous forward.
The forward group is clearly the strength of the team. Oliver Dejbjerg Larsen is one of the key players to watch, having taken a noticeable step forward this season as he has grown into his frame. His speed, quick release, and improved confidence make him a legitimate scoring threat alongside Kongsbak Klyvø. William Bundgaard brings size and net-front presence, while Tristen Petersen and Anton Linde profile as capable middle-six contributors from the CHL. Oliver Green and Martinus Uggerhøj Schioldan round out a group that, on paper, should allow Denmark to roll three lines without being completely overwhelmed by the pace of play. Injury has cost them one of their most talented forwards in Linus Rørth, but there remains enough depth to generate offense by committee.
Historically, Denmark’s best World Junior performances have come when opportunistic forward play is paired with strong goaltending. That formula will again be essential. Anton Emil Wilde Larsen is expected to shoulder the load in net. The 2026 draft-eligible goaltender was dominant at the U18 Division IA World Championship last year and is already gaining experience against men at just 17 years old in Denmark’s top professional league. While still raw, Wilde Larsen has the athleticism and competitiveness to steal games if he finds his rhythm, and this tournament represents a significant showcase opportunity for him ahead of his draft year.
The defensive group is the most vulnerable area of the roster. Markus Jakobsen will be heavily relied upon after his move from the BCHL to the USHL’s Sioux Falls Stampede. A late bloomer, Jacobsen has begun to put his size and skating together more consistently and should contribute in all situations, including on both special-teams units. Emil Saaby Jakobsen is arguably the most naturally talented defenseman on the roster. The 2008-born blue-liner has produced well in Swedish junior hockey and brings offensive instincts and physicality for his age, though he has faced a weaker overall schedule. Jesper Bank Olesen, already playing professionally in Denmark, adds puck-moving ability and composure but will be tested by the speed of top-tier competition.
Overall, Denmark enters the tournament as the most likely relegation candidate. Their matchup against Latvia on December 30th looms as a decisive game, as an unexpected win there could allow them to avoid the relegation round altogether. While the defensive group remains a concern, the forward unit is capable of producing two to three goals per game, and if Anton Emil Wilde Larsen delivers a standout performance in goal, Denmark has just enough upside to keep games competitive and potentially surprise.
Closing Thoughts
The World Junior Championship never fails to deliver drama, breakout performances, and moments that shape how fans and scouts view the next generation of hockey talent. From established stars looking to cement their status, to draft-eligible players eager to make their mark on the international stage, this tournament consistently provides a unique mix of intensity and opportunity. With contrasting styles, deep rosters, and the pressure of a short-format event, momentum can swing quickly and expectations can change overnight.
Can the Americans hold home ice, will Canada reclaim gold, or is this the year Sweden or Finland finally break through — with Czechia and Slovakia ready to crash the party?