Hockey Canada has revealed its preliminary roster of 27 players for the upcoming 2026 World Junior Championship in Minnesota, setting the stage for an intense training camp and difficult decisions before the tournament begins on Boxing Day. This year's selection aims to build a team with a focus on skill and team play.
Forwards:
The forward group is headlined by Gavin McKenna, a projected top pick for the 2026 NHL Draft, and includes a wealth of first-round talent. Six players return from last year's squad: Cole Beaudoin, Jett Luchanko, and Porter Martone. The roster also features Michael Misa, currently playing in the NHL with the San Jose Sharks. Other notable forwards include Tij Iginla, Michael Hage, Liam Greentree, and Caleb Desnoyers. The depth and skill up front suggest that Canada's offense could be a dominant force in the tournament.
Defensemen:
The defensive corps includes Zayne Parekh, currently with the Calgary Flames, and Harrison Brunicke of the Pittsburgh Penguins, bringing NHL experience to the back end. Keaton Verhoeff and Carson Carels, both high-end draft eligibles, also earned spots on the preliminary roster. Other defensemen vying for a spot on the final roster are Kashawn Aitcheson, Harrison Brunicke, Carson Carels, Ben Danford, Ethan Mackenzie, Zayne Parekh, Cameron Reid, Jackson Smith, and Keaton Verhoeff.
Goaltenders:
Carter George and Jack Ivankovic, both returnees from last year's team, are joined by Joshua Ravensbergen in the goaltending pool. George plays for the Owen Sound Attack, Ivankovic plays for the University of Michigan, and Ravensbergen plays for the Prince George Cougars.
Key Returnees:
Six players from the previous year's team will be returning: Cole Beaudoin, Carter George, Jack Ivankovic, Jett Luchanko, Porter Martone, and Gavin McKenna. Their experience from last year’s quarterfinal loss against Latvia in Ottawa should provide valuable leadership and familiarity within the team structure.
Omissions and Potential Additions:
Notably absent from the roster is Landon Dupont. Some players currently in the NHL, such as Sam Dickinson and Ben Kindel, could potentially join the team.
The Road Ahead:
With 27 players named to the preliminary roster, competition will be fierce during the training camp as the team is trimmed down to the final roster of 25. Canada will face Sweden in pre-tournament games on December 17th and 20th in Kitchener and London, Ontario.
Historical Context:
Canada's National Junior Team has a rich history, boasting a record 20 gold medals at the IIHF World Junior Championship. The team's success can be attributed to the Program of Excellence, established in 1982. Canada has medaled in 34 of 46 World Junior events since 1977.
