With the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship just around the corner, anticipation is building to see which young stars will represent their countries. For Calgary Flames fans, this tournament offers a glimpse into the future of their team. Several promising Flames prospects could be in the mix for their respective national teams.
The annual World Junior Summer Showcase in Minneapolis is an important step in the selection process. It provides a platform for young players to showcase their skills and compete for a coveted spot on their national junior teams.
Here's a look at some of the Flames prospects who could be playing in the 2026 World Junior Hockey Championship:
Zayne Parekh (Canada): Parekh, drafted ninth overall in 2024, is a highly touted offensive defenseman. He has had an outstanding season in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), leading all defensemen in goals and points for the second straight year. Scott Wheeler, Corey Pronman, and Max Bultman of The Athletic projected Parekh to make the Team Canada roster. Parekh's offensive prowess and skating ability make him a strong contender for a spot, but his potential to be a key part of the Flames' NHL roster might keep him from being released for the tournament.
Cole Reschny (Canada): Reschny, selected 18th overall in 2025, is a skilled center with a knack for playmaking. He impressed at the Summer Showcase, tying for the team lead in points. Reschny's performance has made him a strong contender to make the final roster. He will be playing for the University of North Dakota in the upcoming season.
Cullen Potter (United States): Potter, drafted 32nd overall in 2025, is another exciting prospect who could represent the United States. He also impressed at the Summer Showcase, consistently making positive contributions in the games he played. According to Daily Faceoff's Steven Ellis, Potter has a good chance of making the World Junior team. Potter is slated to return to Arizona State University for his sophomore year.
Henry Mews (Canada): Mews, a third-round pick in 2024, is a defenseman who participated in the Summer Showcase. He recorded three assists in five games. While his performance received mixed reviews, Mews remains in contention for a roster spot. Mews is expected to play for the University of Michigan.
Other Flames prospects who could be on the radar for their national teams include:
Matvei Gridin (Russia): Gridin, a 2024 first-round pick, would likely be a strong contender for Russia, but Russia is barred from IIHF competitions.
Theo Stockselius (Sweden): Stockselius, a 2025 second-round pick, played at the Under-18 Worlds.
Mace'o Phillips (United States): Phillips, a 2025 third-round pick, also played at the Under-18 Worlds. He will either play for Portland of the WHL or Green Bay of the USHL.
It's important to note that the final rosters will depend on several factors, including player performance in the upcoming season, injuries, and the willingness of NHL teams to release their prospects. The World Junior Championship is typically a "19-year-old tournament," meaning that older players tend to have an advantage. However, younger players like Reschny and Potter have the potential to make an impact. The 2026 World Junior Championship will take place from December 26, 2025, to January 5, 2026, in Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota. Roster announcements are expected in early December.
