How to Watch IIHF World Juniors 2025 Live Online

IIHF World Juniors 2025

Frank Harris

2024 World Juniors Preview, Odds, and Predictions

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As the 2024 World Juniors draws near, anticipation surges for one of the most thrilling hockey events of the season. This international tournament brings together the top U20 players from around the globe, with Gothenburg, Sweden serving as the battleground for the quest of 10 teams to claim the coveted world champion title.

2024 World Juniors Preview, Odds, and Predictions

The Reigning Champs and the Quest for a Three-Peat

In the previous edition, Canada clinched a back-to-back World Juniors championship by triumphing over Czechia in an overtime nail-biter during the gold medal game. With the chance to achieve a rare three-peat, the Canadians head into the 2024 tournament with high expectations, aiming to replicate their success from 2022.

The Contenders: Odds and Projections

The competition for gold in 2024 appears to be a four-horse race, featuring USA, Canada, Sweden, and Finland as the frontrunners according to the odds. Sports Interaction provides an early look at the odds for the 2024 World Juniors:

  • USA: +225
  • Canada: +250
  • Sweden: +275
  • Finland: +525
  • Czechia: +1500
  • Slovakia: +5000
  • Switzerland: +6600
  • Germany: +10000
  • Latvia: +30000
  • Norway: +50000

Group Dynamics: A Closer Look at Pool A and B

Pool A Standings

Group A presents a formidable challenge, with powerhouses Sweden, Canada, and Finland vying for the top seed. The battle for supremacy is intense, with Sweden and Canada boasting stronger rosters on paper. The edge, however, goes to the host nation, Sweden, supported by a lineup that includes key returning players from the 2023 team.

While Germany and Latvia are credible competitors, the balance tips slightly in favor of Latvia due to their impressive performances in recent tournaments.

Pool B Standings

In Pool B, the USA emerges as the frontrunner, with Czechia as the closest contender. Slovakia and Switzerland face off for the third spot, with Norway making a return to the top-tier tournament after a hiatus since 2014.

READ ALSO: 2024 World Juniors: Dates, Schedule, Location and How to watch

Plotting the Course: Playoff Round and Medal Predictions

Quarterfinals

  • A1 Sweden defeats B4 Switzerland
  • B1 USA defeats A4 Latvia
  • A2 Canada defeats B3 Slovakia
  • A3 Finland defeats B2 Czechia

The quarterfinals are anticipated to unfold predictably, with Sweden and the USA expected to secure comfortable victories. The clash between Czechia and Finland is the potential upset, with Finland prevailing due to their strong, structured system.

Semifinals

  • A1 Sweden defeats A3 Finland
  • B1 USA defeats A2 Canada

The semifinals promise two electrifying matchups, with Sweden facing Finland and Canada against the USA. The Swedes, boasting depth and strength, are predicted to edge out Finland, while the USA is projected to avenge their previous year’s loss to Canada.

Medal Standings

  • Gold: Sweden
  • Silver: USA
  • Bronze: Canada

The host country, Sweden, is envisioned to secure gold after a decade-long quest. The anticipated matchups promise a thrilling spectacle, with the Swedes emerging triumphant on home soil.

Individual Accolades: 2024 World Juniors

MVP: Axel Sandin Pellikka, Sweden

For Sweden to clinch gold, key players like Axel Sandin Pellikka must shine. The talented defenseman, a standout in the previous year, is expected to play a pivotal role, potentially earning him the MVP and Best Defenseman honors.

Best Forward: Cutter Gauthier, USA

USA’s Cutter Gauthier, known for his lethal shot, is predicted to claim the Best Forward title. With a strong scoring record from the 2023 World Juniors, Gauthier is set for another stellar performance.

Best Goalie: Michael Hrabal, Czechia

In the absence of a clear standout goaltender, Michael Hrabal from Czechia is forecasted to shine between the posts. The UMass freshman is poised to play a crucial role for a Czech team seeking success despite a less formidable blue line.

As the 2024 World Juniors unfolds, the stage is set for intense competition, with teams and players vying for glory on the international stage.

Unveiling the Excitement: TSN Presents the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship Extravaganza

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TSN, your front-row seat to hockey brilliance, is set to broadcast every thrilling moment of the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship. Dive into the heart of the action as Team Canada, gunning for their third consecutive gold medal, faces off against Switzerland on Friday, Dec. 22 at 9 a.m. ET. The excitement continues with Canada taking on the USA on Saturday, Dec. 23 at 12 p.m. ET.

TSN Presents the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship

Prepping for Glory: TSN’s Exclusive 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship Preview Show

Gear up for the tournament with TSN’s exclusive preview show, featuring host James Duthie alongside Hockey Insider Bob McKenzie and analyst Cheryl Pounder. Catch it on Christmas Eve (Sunday, Dec. 24) at 7:30 p.m. ET on TSN, TSN.ca, and the TSN app. The show boasts insights from TSN Director of Scouting Craig Button, reporter Mark Masters, and the dynamic broadcast duo Gord Miller and Mike Johnson.

Unparalleled Coverage: TSN’s Stellar Lineup Takes the Lead

Miller and Johnson take the helm for pre-competition games and Group A matchups. Duthie, McKenzie, and Pounder guide TSN’s coverage of Group A matchups, the intense medal round, and the highly anticipated Bronze and Gold Medal Games. Analyst Jeff O’Neill joins the panel for all Team Canada games, ensuring you don’t miss a single moment. Dennis Beyak and Craig Button team up for Group B matchups, with Laura Diakun and analyst Dave Reid steering the ship in the studio. Kenzie Lalonde reports live from the rinkside in Gothenburg, accompanied by Mark Masters providing updates for SPORTSCENTRE.

Breaking News Blitz: Your Daily Dose of Tournament Updates

Duthie, McKenzie, O’Neill, Pounder, and Masters are on standby, delivering breaking news, highlights, daily updates, and comprehensive coverage throughout the tournament on SPORTSCENTRE.

Digital Delight: TSN’s Online Oasis of Hockey Bliss

TSN’s digital platforms are your go-to source for tournament coverage. Experience must-see highlights and goal-by-goal updates on TSN.ca and the TSN app. Stay in the loop with live scores and stats for every game. Mark Masters provides daily news updates, and Craig Button offers exclusive Group B video analysis, spotlighting players from each Canadian NHL team and 2024 draft-eligible prospects.

Social Media Spectacle: TSN’s Interactive Celebration

TSN’s social media accounts are buzzing with exclusive content and real-time reactions. Join the conversation with on-location updates from BarDown’s Corwin McCallum and Jesse Pollock in Gothenburg. Dive into daily content across TSN’s social accounts, spanning TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and DIGITAL SPORTSCENTRE.

Radio Rhapsody: Live Coverage on TSN Radio Network

For an auditory feast, tune in to the TSN Radio Network for live coverage of Team Canada’s battles at the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship. Play-by-play commentator Matt Cullen and analyst Devante Smith-Pelly bring the games to life, with Jim Tatti hosting pre-game, intermission, and post-game coverage alongside analyst Anthony Stewart. Get ready to immerse yourself in the symphony of live hockey action!

TSN ensures you’re not just watching; you’re experiencing the pulse of the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship. Join us for a hockey extravaganza like no other!

2024 World Juniors: Dates, Schedule, Location and How to watch

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The excitement is building as we approach the kick-off of the 2024 World Juniors, set to take place in Sweden. With rosters finalized and teams eyeing the gold, this tournament promises thrilling action and a showcase of young talent. Let’s delve into the details of the dates, schedule, and the unique location for this year’s competition.

2024 World Juniors Dates, Schedule, Location and How to watch

Canada, the two-time defending champion, enters the tournament with a legacy of overtime heroics. In 2023, it was Dylan Guenther’s golden goal that secured the championship in Halifax. This year, a new crop of talented players, including Matthew Savoie, Conor Geekie, and Nate Danielson, aims to continue Canada’s dominance.

Here’s a comprehensive overview of the 2024 World Juniors:

When and Where 2024 World Juniors

  • Start Date: December 26, 2023
  • End Date: January 5, 2024
  • Location: Gothenburg, Sweden
  • Venues: Scandinavium/Frolundaborg

The inauguration of the 2024 tournament unfolds on the day after Christmas, precisely on Dec. 26.

The group stage spans the initial six days, followed by the quarterfinals on Jan. 2, the semifinals on Jan. 4, and the ultimate culmination with the bronze and gold medal contests on Jan. 5.

2024 World Juniors Groups

Group A

  • Canada
  • Finland
  • Sweden
  • Germany
  • Latvia

Group B

  • Czechia
  • USA
  • Switzerland
  • Slovakia
  • Norway

Teams will compete in a round-robin format, earning points for wins and positioning themselves for the playoffs.

In the group stage, teams amass three points for a regulation win, two points for an overtime win, one point for an overtime loss, and no points for a regulation defeat.

The top four teams from each group progress to the quarterfinals, where matchups are contingent on seeding. Inter-group crossovers dictate these matchups: 1A vs. 4B, 1B vs. 4A, 2A vs. 3B, and 2B vs. 3A. Semifinalists undergo reseeding.

The victors of the semifinals vie for the gold medal, while the defeated contend for bronze.

Full Schedule for the 2024 World Juniors:

Tuesday, Dec. 26

  • Slovakia vs. Czechia: 6 a.m.
  • Finland vs. Canada: 8:30 a.m.
  • USA vs. Norway: 11 a.m.
  • Sweden vs. Latvia: 1:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 27

  • Slovakia vs. Switzerland: 6 a.m.
  • Finland vs. Germany: 8:30 a.m.
  • Norway vs. Czechia: 11 a.m.
  • Latvia vs. Canada: 1:30 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 28

  • Switzerland vs. USA: 11 a.m.
  • Germany vs. Sweden: 1:30 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 29

  • Norway vs. Slovakia: 6 a.m.
  • Latvia vs. Finland: 8:30 a.m.
  • Czechia vs. USA: 11 a.m.
  • Canada vs. Sweden: 1:30 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 30

  • Switzerland vs. Norway: 11 a.m.
  • Germany vs. Latvia: 1:30 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 31

  • USA vs. Slovakia: 6 a.m.
  • Sweden vs. Finland: 8:30 a.m.
  • Czechia vs. Switzerland: 11 a.m.
  • Canada vs. Germany: 1:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 2

  • Quarterfinal: 6 a.m.
  • Quarterfinal: 8:30 a.m.
  • Quarterfinal: 11 a.m.
  • Quarterfinal: 1:30 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 4

  • Relegation Game: 5 a.m.
  • Semifinal: 9 a.m.
  • Semifinal: 1:30 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 5

  • Bronze Medal Game: 9 a.m.
  • Gold Medal Game: 1:30 p.m.

Day-by-Day Action: Schedule Highlights

Explore the schedule day by day, from the initial matchups on December 26 to the intense quarterfinals on January 2 and the ultimate medal clashes on January 5.

How to Watch the 2024 World Juniors in Canada and USA:

Canadian Viewers

  • TV Channel: TSN
  • Live Stream: TSN.ca, TSN App

USA Viewers:

  • TV Channel: NHL Network
  • Live Stream: Fubo

TSN and the NHL Network retain their position as the exclusive broadcasters for the 2024 World Juniors.

Canadian viewers can tune in on TSN or stream games through TSN.ca or the TSN app. On the other side of the border, the American audience can catch the action on the NHL Network or stream through Fubo, which offers a complimentary trial. For more information on how to watch the World Juniors 2024 where you are, visit our homepage.

Tournament Format

In the group stage, teams accrue points for wins and overtime results, setting the stage for the quarterfinals. Top four teams from each group advance, leading to intriguing crossover matchups. Semifinalists will be reseeded, culminating in the crowning of a gold medalist.

Conclusion

The 2024 World Juniors promise a thrilling spectacle of talent and competition. As the hockey world turns its attention to Sweden, fans can anticipate unforgettable moments and the rise of future NHL stars.

Canada’s 2024 World Juniors Selection Camp Roster Revealed

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The anticipation for the upcoming World Junior Championship has reached a fever pitch as Hockey Canada unveiled the roster for its selection camp. This crucial step brings Canada one step closer to the pursuit of a historic third consecutive gold medal. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of the selection camp, exploring the players, expectations, and notable omissions that make this event a focal point for hockey enthusiasts worldwide.

(Photo by Richard Wolowicz/Getty Images)

The Selection Camp Breakdown

Roster Composition

The roster, comprising 30 talented players, will undergo a stringent evaluation process to finalize 23 active players and two extras. This selection will consist of three goalies and 20 skaters, setting the stage for an intense competition leading up to the tournament.

Notable Absences

A twist in this year’s narrative is the absence of several age-eligible players, including the likes of Connor Bedard, Adam Fantilli, and others who are currently making waves in the professional ranks. This absence, however, opens the door for emerging talents to make their mark.

Formidable Lineup Despite Challenges

Despite the absence of some seasoned players, Canada’s roster remains formidable. The team will be spearheaded by Head Coach Alan Letang, bringing a wealth of experience from his role with the OHL’s Sarnia Sting. The inclusion of players like Matt Savoie and projected 2024 No. 1 overall pick Macklin Celebrini adds depth and excitement to the lineup.

Top Prospects and Rising Stars

A closer look at the roster reveals promising first-round picks, including Brayden Yager, Conor Geekie, Oliver Bonk, and Matthew Wood. These young talents, alongside Macklin Celebrini, are set to make significant contributions to Canada’s campaign, showcasing the wealth of emerging talent in the hockey landscape.

Macklin Celebrini: A Player to Watch

The spotlight shines on Macklin Celebrini, a top scorer in the NCAA with Boston University. His stellar performance puts him in contention for the prestigious Hobey Baker Memorial Award and positions him as a key player in Canada’s pursuit of gold.

Camp Details and Preparation

Canada’s selection camp kicks off on December 10, running through Wednesday before the team embarks on its journey to Europe. The players will engage in practices and exhibition games against USports opponents, providing a final proving ground before the roster cutdowns.

READ ALSO: Team USA Roster Selection for 2024 World Junior Championship

The Selected Squad

Let’s take a closer look at the selected players across different positions:

Forwards

  • Owen Allard
  • Denver Barkey (PHI)
  • Owen Beck (MTL)
  • Easton Cowan (TOR)
  • Nate Danielson (DET)
  • Conor Geekie (ARI)
  • Fraser Minten (TOR)
  • Matt Savoie (BUF)
  • Brayden Yager (PIT)

Defensemen

  • Oliver Bonk (PHI)
  • Michael Buchinger (STL)
  • Jorian Donovan (OTT)
  • Tristan Luneau (ANA)
  • Denton Mateychuk (CBJ)
  • Ty Nelson (SEA)

Goalies

  • Domenic Divicentis (WPG)
  • Scott Ratzlaff (BUF)
  • Mathis Rousseau
  • Samuel St.-Hilaire

Notable Omissions and Surprising Inclusions

Owen Pickering’s Exclusion

Pittsburgh Penguins’ Owen Pickering, a towering left-shot defenseman and Swift Current Broncos captain, faces a surprising omission. Despite his 6-foot-5 frame, his dip in production raises questions about this unexpected decision.

Andrew Cristall’s Missed Opportunity

Andrew Cristall, the high-scoring Washington Capitals prospect from the WHL’s Kelowna Rockets, finds himself on the outside looking in. Despite an impressive points tally, he will have to wait for another opportunity to don the Team Canada jersey.

Unlikely Inclusions

Four undrafted players from the last two drafts find themselves on the roster, signaling a refreshing openness to untapped talent. Owen Allard and Markus Vidicek among forwards, along with goalies Mathis Rousseau and Samuel St-Hilaire, defy conventional expectations.

Conclusion

As Canada’s journey towards the 2024 World Juniors gains momentum, the roster announcement ignites excitement and debates among fans. The absence of some established players opens doors for rising stars, adding an intriguing layer to the tournament narrative. The blend of seasoned players, top prospects, and unexpected inclusions sets the stage for an unforgettable championship.

Team USA Roster Selection for 2024 World Junior Championship

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The anticipation is building in the hockey world as the United States gears up for the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship. Leading the charge is the talented forward, Will Smith, recently selected by the San Jose Sharks in the 2023 NHL Draft. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of the selection camp roster, the expectations from the players, and the strategic approach of coach David Carle.

Team USA World Juniors
(Photo by Kevin Hoffman/Getty Images)

The Selection Camp

Camp Overview

The selection camp, a crucial step in forming the roster, comprises 16 forwards, 10 defensemen, and three goalies. It unfolds at the USA Hockey Arena over three intense days, setting the stage for the upcoming championship.

Coach Carle’s Strategy

Coach David Carle, in his sixth season at the University of Denver, emphasizes the team’s strengths. He aims to position players for success, focusing on defensive prowess, puck pressure, and efficient turnover creation. Carle affirms his commitment to a winning strategy, leaving little room for drastic changes.

Tournament Preparation

Roster Composition

Carle plans to finalize a roster of 14 forwards, eight defensemen, and three goalies for the championship in Gothenburg, Sweden. The meticulous selection process reflects the depth of talent available and the challenging decisions faced by the coaching staff.

Pre-tournament Games

Before jetting off to Sweden, the team will engage in pre-tournament matchups against Sweden and Canada. These games, scheduled on December 21 and 23, will be crucial in fine-tuning strategies and building team cohesion.

Player Highlights

Boston College Contingent

Will Smith will be accompanied by six teammates from Boston College, showcasing the strength of their collegiate program. Cutter Gauthier, Ryan Leonard, and Gabe Perreault are among the notable forwards, while Drew Fortescue and Aram Minnetian bolster the defensive lineup. Goalie Jacob Fowler adds a final layer of resilience.

NHL First-round Picks

The selection camp also features six other NHL first-round picks, bringing a wealth of talent to the roster. Defenseman Sam Rinzel and forwards Isaac Howard, Rutger McGroarty, Oliver Moore, Frank Nazar III, and Jimmy Snuggerud promise to make a significant impact.

Rising Stars

Zeev Buium, a standout freshman defenseman from the University of Denver, adds depth to the defensive unit. His impressive stats and adaptability to Carle’s system make him a valuable asset.

James Hagens: A Young Phenom

Seventeen-year-old center James Hagens, part of USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program, adds a youthful vigor to the team. With his eyes set on the 2025 NHL Draft, Hagens brings a combination of skill and commitment to the ice.

Goalie Tandem

The goaltending duties rest on Trey Augustine and Jacob Fowler. With solid records and big-game experience, Carle expresses confidence in their ability to anchor the team throughout the tournament.

Past Glory and Future Aspirations

2023 WJC Bronze

The United States secured the bronze medal in the 2023 WJC, showcasing their resilience in a thrilling overtime win against Sweden. The team’s ability to perform under pressure sets the stage for a compelling performance in the upcoming championship.

Group Placement

Placed in Group B alongside Czechia, Slovakia, Switzerland, and Norway, the U.S. faces a challenging preliminary round. The first game against Norway on December 26 will be a litmus test for their tournament aspirations.

Canada’s Triumph

Reflecting on the previous championship, Canada clinched victory by defeating Czechia in overtime. Group A, featuring Canada, Sweden, Finland, Germany, and Latvia, promises intense competition.

Road to Quarterfinals

The top four teams from each group will advance to the quarterfinals on January 2. The stakes rise as the tournament progresses, culminating in the semifinals on January 4 and the gold- and bronze-medal games on January 5.

USA Hockey WJC Camp Roster

Goalies

  • Trey Augustine (Michigan State, NCAA – Red Wings)
  • Jacob Fowler (Boston College, NCAA – Canadiens)
  • Samuel Hillebrandt (Barrie, OHL – 2024 draft eligible)

Defensemen

  • Zeev Buium (Denver, NCAA – 2024 draft eligible)
  • Seamus Casey (Michigan, NCAA – New Jersey Devils)
  • Ryan Chesley (Minnesota, NCAA – Capitals)
  • Drew Fortescue (Boston College, NCAA – Rangers)
  • Patrick Geary (Michigan State, NCAA – 2024 draft eligible)
  • Lane Hutson (Boston University, NCAA – Canadiens)
  • Jake Livanavage (North Dakota, NCAA – 2024 draft eligible)
  • Aram Minnetian (Boston College, NCAA – Dallas Stars)
  • Eric Pohlkamp (Bemidji State, NCAA – Sharks)
  • Sam Rinzel (Minnesota, NCAA – Blackhawks)

Forwards

  • Gavin Brindley (Michigan, NCAA – Columbus Blue Jackets)
  • Quinn Finley (Wisconsin, NCAA – New York Islanders)
  • Cutter Gauthier (Boston College, NCAA – Flyers)
  • James Hagens (USA U-18, NTDP – 2025 draft eligible)
  • Gavin Hayes (Flint, OHL – Blackhawks)
  • Isaac Howard (Michigan State, NCAA – Lightning)
  • Ryan Leonard (Boston College, NCAA – Capitals)
  • Rutger McGroarty (Michigan, NCAA – Jets)
  • Oliver Moore (Minnesota, NCAA – Blackhawks)
  • Frank Nazar (Michigan, NCAA – Blackhawks)
  • Danny Nelson (Notre Dame, NCAA – Islanders)
  • Gabe Perreault (Boston College, NCAA – Rangers)
  • Will Smith (Boston College, NCAA – Sharks)
  • Jimmy Snuggerud (Minnesota, NCAA – Blues)
  • Carey Terrance (Erie, OHL – Anaheim Ducks)
  • William Whitelaw (Wisconsin, NCAA – Columbus Blue Jackets)

Conclusion

As the United States gears up for the 2024 World Junior Championship, the blend of seasoned players and emerging talent forms a formidable roster. Coach Carle’s strategic approach and the team’s past success create an air of anticipation. Will Smith and his teammates carry the hopes of a nation as they strive for glory on the international stage.

World Juniors 2024: Finland and Sweden Rosters Overview

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The countdown to the 2024 World Juniors is on, and the excitement is palpable. Teams Sweden and Finland have unveiled their preliminary rosters, setting the stage for an intense competition in Gothenburg. Let’s delve into the strengths, challenges, and strategies of these two hockey powerhouses.

Finland vs Sweden
(Photo By Dave Sandford/Getty Images)

With a mere fortnight remaining until the World Juniors commence, the venerable European powerhouses have laid bare their rosters.

Sweden, the host nation, presented what seems to be their definitive roster, requiring no further pruning. Conversely, Team Finland is faced with the unenviable task of excising two players, presumably one forward and one defender.

The Swedes enter the competition as frontrunners for the gold medal, flaunting stellar prowess both in the offensive and defensive realms. Their contingent boasts the return of nine seasoned players, providing a considerable advantage on home ice and potentially outshining other elite squads.

Leo Carlsson, the second overall pick for the Anaheim Ducks in the 2023 NHL draft, will notably be absent from the Swedish lineup, as he is engaged in NHL duties and not available for loan. Nonetheless, the roster features an impressive nine first-round picks.

The formidable Swedish defensive lineup will showcase Axel Sandin Pellikka, a first-rounder for the Detroit Red Wings, and Mattias Havelid, selected in the second round by the San Jose Sharks. Filip Bystedt, a first-round pick for the Sharks, spearheads a forward ensemble that includes Jonathan Lekkerimaki, a prospect for the Vancouver Canucks, and Noah Ostlund, a prospect for the Buffalo Sabres.

Coach Magnus Havelid, returning from last year’s campaign where Sweden finished fourth in the IIHF World Junior Championship, has previously guided Sweden to gold in the Under-18 World Championship in 2019 and 2022.

On the opposing side, Team Finland promises to be a tenacious unit, consistently bringing the structural and professional-style hockey characteristic of their World Juniors appearances.

Nashville Predators prospect Joakim Kemell will be absent from the Finnish lineup, choosing to remain in North America for further development in the AHL with the Milwaukee Admirals.

While lacking the offensive firepower of their Swedish counterparts, OHL players Kasper Halttunen and Rasmus Kumpulainen are expected to assume significant roles. The Finnish roster also showcases two forwards eligible for the 2024 NHL draft: Konsta Helenius, a potential top-10 pick, and Emil Hemming, a potential first-rounder.

In the goaltending department, the Finns deploy Niklas Kokko, Eemil Vinni, and Noa Vali. Although Kokko was part of last year’s roster, he did not see any playing time. All three goaltenders stand a chance of making appearances in the upcoming under-20 tournament.

Lauri Mikkola leads the coaching ensemble, tasked with making the final decisions after pre-tournament encounters against Slovakia on Dec. 19 and Czechia on Dec. 21. Finland’s tournament debut will be against the reigning gold medalists, Canada, providing a rigorous test for both squads.

Team Finland and Team Sweden Rosters

Team Finland

Goaltenders

  • Eemil Vinni
  • Niklas Kokko
  • Noa Vali

Defense

  • Veeti Vaisanen
  • Otto Salin
  • Arttu Karki
  • Kasper Kulonummi
  • Emil Pieniniemi
  • Joona Vaisanen
  • Kalle Kangas
  • Jesse Pukkinen

Forwards

  • Rasmus Kumpulainen
  • Konsta Helenius
  • Oiva Keskinen
  • Samu Bau
  • Kasper Halttunen
  • Jesse Kiiskinen
  • Aleksanteri Kaskimaki
  • Max Koskipirtti
  • Jere Lassila
  • Lenni Hameenaho
  • Emil Hemming
  • Jani Nyman
  • Tommi Mannisto
  • Janne Naukkarinen

Team Sweden

Goaltenders

  • Hugo Havelid
  • Kevin Reidler
  • Melker Thelin

Defense

  • Mattias Havelid
  • Anton Johansson
  • Jakob Noren
  • Elias Pettersson
  • Elias Salomonsson
  • Axel Sandin Pellikka
  • Tom Willander

Forwards

  • Isac Born
  • Filip Bystedt
  • David Edstrom
  • Zeb Forsfjall
  • Jonathan Lekkerimaki
  • Oskar Pettersson
  • Rasmus Rudslatt
  • Otto Stenberg
  • Felix Unger Sorum
  • Fabian Wagner
  • Anton Wahlberg
  • Liam Ohgren
  • Noah Ostlund

Conclusion

As the 2024 World Juniors approach, the stage is set for an exhilarating tournament. Team Sweden’s stacked lineup and home advantage make them strong contenders, while Team Finland’s tenacity and skilled individuals could spring surprises. Hockey fans worldwide are in for a treat as these two nations vie for supremacy on the ice.

FAQs

How many returning players does Team Sweden have?

Team Sweden boasts nine returning players from the previous year.

Who leads Team Finland’s coaching staff?

Lauri Mikkola leads the coaching staff for Team Finland.

Which NHL team’s prospect is missing from Team Finland?

Joakim Kemell, a Nashville Predators prospect, is absent from Team Finland.

Who are the key goaltenders for Team Finland?

Niklas Kokko, Eemil Vinni, and Noa Vali are the goaltenders for Team Finland.

When does Finland open the tournament, and against whom?

Finland opens the tournament against Canada, the reigning gold medal winners.

US kicks off 2024 World Juniors against Norway in the first Game

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The anticipation is palpable as the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship is set to kick off in Gothenburg, Sweden, on December 26. In this exhilarating tournament, nations will vie for supremacy on the ice, marking the dawn of a new chapter in international junior hockey.

(Photo by Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images)

The Opening Clash: United States vs. Norway

On the inaugural day, the United States will face off against Norway in what promises to be a riveting showdown. This clash sets the stage for a series of intense battles that will unfold over the course of the championship, culminating in the grand finale on January 5, 2024.

Canada’s Quest for Three-Peat

Fresh from their triumph in the 2023 WJC, where they emerged victorious against Czechia, Canada is eyeing a historic three-peat. The last team to achieve this feat was none other than Canada, securing five consecutive victories from 2005-09.

Tournament Format and Teams

Ten teams, divided into two groups, will engage in the preliminary round. Group A boasts hockey powerhouses Canada, Sweden, Finland, Germany, and Latvia, while Group B includes the United States, Czechia, Slovakia, Switzerland, and Norway. Russia’s absence, due to its ban from international play, adds an additional layer of intrigue to the proceedings.

Road to Glory: Tournament Schedule

The championship schedule unfolds with a series of gripping matches:

December 26

  • Slovakia vs. Czechia at Frolundaborg, 6 a.m. ET
  • Finland vs. Canada at Scandinavium, 8:30 a.m. ET
  • United States vs. Norway at Frolundaborg, 11 a.m. ET
  • Sweden vs. Latvia at Scandinavium, 1:30 p.m. ET

December 27

  • Slovakia vs. Switzerland at Frolundaborg, 6 a.m. ET
  • Finland vs. Germany at Scandinavium, 8:30 a.m. ET
  • Norway vs. Czechia at Frolundaborg, 11 a.m. ET
  • Latvia vs. Canada at Scandinavium, 1:30 p.m. ET

December 28

  • Switzerland vs. United States at Frolundaborg, 11 a.m. ET
  • Germany vs. Sweden at Scandinavium, 1:30 p.m. ET

December 29

  • Norway vs. Slovakia at Frolundaborg, 6 a.m. ET
  • Latvia vs. Finland at Scandinavium, 8:30 a.m. ET
  • Czechia vs. United States at Frolundaborg, 11 a.m. ET
  • Canada vs. Sweden at Scandinavium, 1:30 p.m. ET
  • December 30
  • Switzerland vs. Norway at Frolundaborg, 11 a.m. ET
  • Germany vs. Latvia at Scandinavium, 1:30 p.m. ET

December 31

  • United States vs. Slovakia at Frolundaborg, 6 a.m. ET
  • Sweden vs. Finland at Scandinavium, 8:30 a.m. ET
  • Czechia vs. Switzerland at Frolundaborg, 11 a.m. ET
  • Canada vs. Germany at Scandinavium, 1:30 p.m. ET

January 2

  • Quarterfinal 1 at Frolundaborg, 6 a.m. ET
  • Quarterfinal 2 at Scandinavium, 8:30 a.m. ET
  • Quarterfinal 3 at Frolundaborg, 11 a.m. ET
  • Quarterfinal 4 at Scandinavium, 1:30 p.m. ET

January 4 (Scandinavium)

  • Relegation Game at 5 a.m. ET
  • Semifinal 1 at 9 a.m. ET
  • Semifinal 2 at 1:30 p.m. ET

January 5 (Scandinavium)

  • Third-place game at 9 a.m. ET
  • Championship game at 1:30 p.m. ET

Conclusion

The 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship promises a rollercoaster of emotions, fierce competition, and memorable moments. As the hockey world holds its breath, the journey to crown the next junior hockey champion is set to captivate fans worldwide.

FAQs

How many teams are participating in the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship?

Ten teams will compete in the championship.

Which team won the 2023 WJC?

Canada secured victory in the 2023 WJC.

Why is Russia not participating in the tournament?

Russia is banned from international play due to its invasion of Ukraine.

When is the championship game scheduled for 2024?

The championship game is set for January 5, 2024, at 1:30 p.m. ET.

Where will the 2024 IIHF World Junior Championship be held?

The championship will take place in Gothenburg, Sweden.