The World Junior Championship can often be a tournament dominated by 19-year-olds, but it also pr...

<p>The World Junior Championship can often be a tournament dominated by 19-year-olds, but it also presents an opportunity for draft-eligible players to boost their stock with a strong performance.</p><p>The 2025 tournament is loaded with high-end, draft-eligible talent, including the projected top three picks in the upcoming draft. That doesn't even include 16-year-old phenom Gavin McKenna, who was omitted from this list because he's not draft eligible until 2026.</p><p>However, the depth is lacking. A likely North American-heavy Round 1 means fewer opportunities for draft-eligible players to participate in this tournament because Canada and USA are the toughest teams to crack. A pair of notable projected European first-rounders, Anton Frondell (Sweden) and Radim Mrtka (Czechia), were left off their respective nation's teams.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>But without further ado, we rank the top five players eligible for the upcoming NHL draft who are competing at the 2025 World Junior Championship in Ottawa.</p><h3>1. James Hagens, United States <strong>🇺🇸</strong>
</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758298/cropped_GettyImages-2178024666.jpg?ts=1733076860" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758298/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178024666.jpg?ts=1733076860 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758298/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178024666.jpg?ts=1733076860 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758298/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178024666.jpg?ts=1733076860 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758298/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178024666.jpg?ts=1733076860 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758298/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178024666.jpg?ts=1733076860 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Miller/ISI Photos / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>GP</th>
<th>G</th>
<th>A</th>
<th>P</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Boston College (NCAA)</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>5</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>20</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Position: </strong>C<br><strong>Birthday: </strong>Nov. 3, 2006<br><strong>Draft projection: </strong>1st overall</p><p>Hagens has long been considered the cream of the crop of the 2025 class, though he isn't exactly a shoo-in for the No. 1 pick as Macklin Celebrini was a year ago and Connor Bedard was in 2023. But a strong performance at this tournament - especially against other players competing for top spot - would go a long way in further cementing his status as the best player in the draft.</p><p>He'll have a great opportunity to shine in Ottawa, as he projects to center USA's top line between his Boston College linemates Gabriel Perreault and Ryan Leonard - both of whom are among the best players in the tournament after helping the Americans capture gold in 2024.</p><p>Prior to joining B.C., Hagens paced the U.S. National U18 Team with 102 points in 58 contests while ranking second with 39 goals last season. His 187 points across two years with the development program are the <a href="https://www.usahockeyntdp.com/records">fifth most</a> all-time, trailing only Utah Hockey Club captain Clayton Keller, San Jose Sharks rookie Will Smith, New York Islanders prospect Cole Eiserman, and New Jersey Devils superstar Jack Hughes.</p><p>The New York native was a final cut from the United States' world juniors roster last year, likely because of the team's depth up front and his young age. Hagens has some experience on the international stage, though. He was a beast at the IIHF World U18 Championship in the spring, recording nine goals and 22 points in seven games to establish a new single-tournament record while helping the Americans to a second-place finish. Nikita Kucherov was the previous record holder after going off for 21 points in 2011.</p><h3>2. Matthew Schaefer, Canada <strong>🇨🇦</strong>
</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759711/cropped_GettyImages-2187369916.jpg?ts=1733710090" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759711/w220xh124_GettyImages-2187369916.jpg?ts=1733710090 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759711/w320xh180_GettyImages-2187369916.jpg?ts=1733710090 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759711/w640xh360_GettyImages-2187369916.jpg?ts=1733710090 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759711/w768xh432_GettyImages-2187369916.jpg?ts=1733710090 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759711/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2187369916.jpg?ts=1733710090 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Miller/ISI Photos / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>GP</th>
<th>G</th>
<th>A</th>
<th>P</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Erie Otters (OHL)</td>
<td>17</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>22</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Position: </strong>D<br><strong>Birthday: </strong>Sept. 5, 2007<br><strong>Draft projection: </strong>Top 3</p><p>Schaefer is widely considered the top defenseman in the draft and a legitimate challenger for the No. 1 pick if he continues to ascend. Despite a slow start to his OHL season after missing the first nine games with mononucleosis, he's already surpassed his point totals (three goals and 14 assists in 56 games) from his rookie campaign.</p><p>He boasts easily projectable traits that give him a high prospect floor. He's arguably the best skater in the draft, equal parts explosive and agile. Combine that with a 6-foot-2 frame and good instincts offensively and defensively, it's easy to understand why a team picking first overall might have a tough time passing on Schaefer.</p><p>Despite being the only '07-born player on this list, Schaefer projects to play a key role for Canada. During recent practices he was partnered with Oliver Bonk - Canada's only returnee on the back end - on the team's second defense pair and was quarterbacking the top power-play unit.</p><p>The blue-liner is chasing his fourth gold medal in what will be his fourth international appearance. He finished atop the podium at the World U17 Hockey Challenge in 2023 as well as this year's IIHF World U18 Championship and Hlinka Gretzky Cup. Schaefer particularly impressed at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup in August, where he was largely considered the best player at the event while donning the "C" for Canada.</p><h3>3. Porter Martone, Canada <strong>🇨🇦</strong>
</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758297/cropped_GettyImages-2187658101.jpg?ts=1733076575" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758297/w220xh124_GettyImages-2187658101.jpg?ts=1733076575 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758297/w320xh180_GettyImages-2187658101.jpg?ts=1733076575 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758297/w640xh360_GettyImages-2187658101.jpg?ts=1733076575 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758297/w768xh432_GettyImages-2187658101.jpg?ts=1733076575 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758297/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2187658101.jpg?ts=1733076575 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Miller/ISI Photos / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>GP</th>
<th>G</th>
<th>A</th>
<th>P</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Brampton Steelheads (OHL)</td>
<td>26</td>
<td>21</td>
<td>33</td>
<td>54</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Position: </strong>RW<br><strong>Birthday: </strong>Oct. 26, 2006<br><strong>Draft projection: </strong>Top 3</p><p>Despite coming in at No. 3 on our list, don't sleep on Martone, who has a legitimate chance to hear his name first on draft day.</p><p>Martone is hard to miss when he's out there. His skills as a budding, physical power forward are a factor of course, but he's also listed at 6-foot-3 and 207 pounds. Despite his large frame, he still skates quite well.</p><p>That physical maturity could help Martone excel in this tournament despite being an underager. He's primed for an opportunity to do so, skating on Canada's second line during recent practices.</p><p>Martone enjoyed a strong 2023-24 campaign, finishing with 33 goals and 71 points in 60 contests for the Steelheads. Stunningly, he's only 18 points away from surpassing last season's total, and he's played in 34 fewer games.<strong> </strong>Martone has also been held without a point in only three games so far in 2024-25 and has registered<strong> </strong>17 multi-point contests. That hot run has him second in OHL production, behind only Michael Misa of the Saginaw Spirit.</p><p>This will be Martone's first world juniors appearance, though he did captain Canada to a gold medal at the 2024 IIHF World U18 Championship. He finished second on the team with 17 points (five goals, 12 assists) in seven outings, trailing only McKenna.</p><h3>4. Victor Eklund, Sweden <strong>🇸🇪</strong>
</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758304/cropped_GettyImages-2165368735.jpg?ts=1733077726" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758304/w220xh124_GettyImages-2165368735.jpg?ts=1733077726 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758304/w320xh180_GettyImages-2165368735.jpg?ts=1733077726 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758304/w640xh360_GettyImages-2165368735.jpg?ts=1733077726 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758304/w768xh432_GettyImages-2165368735.jpg?ts=1733077726 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758304/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2165368735.jpg?ts=1733077726 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Miller/ISI Photos / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>GP</th>
<th>G</th>
<th>A</th>
<th>P</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Djurgardens IF (HockeyAllsvenskan)</td>
<td>24</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>15</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Position: </strong>LW<br><strong>Birthday:</strong> Oct. 3, 2006<br><strong>Draft projection: </strong>Mid-1st round</p><p>The younger brother of San Jose Sharks forward William Eklund, Victor<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wjhc/players/15460" href="https://thescore.com/wjhc/players/15460"> </a>Eklund has already accomplished something his sibling never did: represent Sweden at a World Junior Championship.</p><p>This won't be Eklund's first time on the international stage, either, as he previously donned the tre kronor at the 2024 U18s and the 2022 U17s, winning a bronze medal at the former.</p><p>Eklund shares several of the same characteristics as his brother. While a bit undersized at 5-foot-11 and 161 pounds, he's a highly talented offensive winger. Eklund is a better playmaker than he is a finisher, despite having more goals than assists this season. He's a gifted skater with a high motor.</p><p>Some scouts have Eklund going in the top 10, while others project him in the 20s. This tournament presents a huge opportunity for him to prove he's worthy of a top-10 pick.</p><h3>5. Logan Hensler, United States <strong>🇺🇸</strong>
</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760193/cropped_GettyImages-1995327867.jpg?ts=1733953454" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760193/w220xh124_GettyImages-1995327867.jpg?ts=1733953454 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760193/w320xh180_GettyImages-1995327867.jpg?ts=1733953454 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760193/w640xh360_GettyImages-1995327867.jpg?ts=1733953454 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760193/w768xh432_GettyImages-1995327867.jpg?ts=1733953454 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760193/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1995327867.jpg?ts=1733953454 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Miller/ISI Photos / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>GP</th>
<th>G</th>
<th>A</th>
<th>P</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Wisconsin (NCAA)</td>
<td>17</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Position: </strong>D<br><strong>Birthday: </strong>Oct. 14, 2006<br><strong>Draft projection: </strong>Mid-1st round</p><p>Hensler doesn't project to play a huge role on a loaded U.S. roster, but being named to the team as a draft-eligible player is impressive nonetheless.</p><p>As a right-shot, 6-foot-2, 196-pound defender with mobility, Hensler's toolkit is tantalizing. He has top-four defenseman potential in the NHL, especially if he continues to grow. While he isn't dynamic offensively, his length and feet make him a reliable defender.</p><p>Hensler boasts prior international experience. The Woodbury, Minnesota, product helped USA capture silver at the 2024 U18s, and he donned the stars and stripes at the 2022 U17s.</p><p><strong>Keep an eye on:</strong></p><ul>
<li>G Jack Ivankovic 🇨🇦</li>
<li>D Carlos Handel 🇩🇪</li>
<li>F David Lewandowski 🇩🇪</li>
<li>G Michal Pradel 🇸🇰</li>
<li>F Jamiro Reber🇨🇭</li>
</ul>

CHESTNUT HILL, MASSACHUSETTS - NOVEMBER 10: James Hagens #10 of the Boston College Eagles skates against the Maine Black Bears during the third period during NCAA men's hockey at Kelley Rink on November 10, 2024 in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts. The Eagles won 3-0.

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<p>Free-agent defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1994" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1994">John Klingberg</a> is hoping to latch on with an NHL team in late January, reports <a href="https://x.com/Sportsnet/status/1870655141856035108">Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman</a>.</p><p>Klingberg last suited up in November 2023 with the Toronto Maple Leafs before undergoing season-ending bilateral hip surgery the following month.</p><p>The 10-year NHL veteran is reportedly expected to resume skating with a junior team in late December. Klingberg has been skating with the same rehab team <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/267" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/267">Patrick Kane</a> used during his recovery from hip resurfacing surgery in 2023, Friedman noted.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Once viewed as one of the league's premier offensive defensemen during his prime with the Dallas Stars, Klingberg recorded a career-high 67 points and finished sixth in Norris Trophy voting in 2017-18. The 32-year-old also shined during the 2020 playoffs, helping Dallas make the Stanley Cup Final with 21 points in 26 contests.</p><p>However, Klingberg's game - especially defensively - deteriorated over the last few seasons, as he struggled mightily during brief stints in Anaheim, Minnesota, and Toronto.</p><p>The right-shot, 6-foot-3 defenseman has tallied 81 goals and 331 assists in 633 career NHL games.</p>

TORONTO, ON - OCTOBER 14: John Klingberg #3 of the Toronto Maple Leafs skates with the puck against the Minnesota Wild during the third period at the Scotiabank Arena on October 14, 2023 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Justin Schultz announced his retirement from the NHL on Wednesday following a career that spanned...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2594" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2594">Justin Schultz</a> announced his retirement from the NHL on Wednesday following a career that spanned 745 games over 12 seasons and included a pair of Stanley Cups.</p><p>The 34-year-old went unsigned as a free agent this past offseason. He eventually joined HC Lugano of the Swiss League.</p><p>Schultz played for the Edmonton Oilers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Washington Capitals, and Seattle Kraken during his career. He found his greatest success with the Pens, where he was a part of back-to-back Stanley Cups in 2016 and 2017.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The second of those two championships was the pinnacle of Schultz's career. He tallied a career-high 51 points during the regular season and, with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1023" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1023">Kris Letang</a> injured for the playoffs, stepped up in a huge way, tallying 13 points in 21 postseason games while quarterbacking the top power-play unit.</p><p>Schultz was drafted in the second round by the Anaheim Ducks in 2008. However, after a storied NCAA career at Wisconsin, where he was a two-time All-American, he and the Ducks failed to agree on a contract. Following a heavy recruitment process, he signed with the Oilers.</p><p>Schultz finishes his career with 71 goals and 253 assists. He played his last season with the Kraken in 2023-24.</p><p>The Kelowna, British Columbia native also represented Canada on the international stage at the 2013 World Championship.</p>

NASHVILLE, TN - JUNE 11: Justin Schultz #4 of the Pittsburgh Penguins celebrates with the Stanley Cup following a victory over the Nashville Predators in Game Six of the 2017 NHL Stanley Cup Final at the Bridgestone Arena on June 11, 2017 in Nashville, Tennessee.

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The NHL fined San Jose Sharks head coach Ryan Warsofsky $25,000 for inappropriate conduct during ...

<p>The NHL fined San Jose Sharks head coach Ryan Warsofsky $25,000 for inappropriate conduct during the team's 4-3 loss to the Utah Hockey Club on Saturday.</p><p>"I'm not going to get into what happened," Warsofsky said Tuesday, per <a href="https://sanjosehockeynow.com/san-jose-sharks-ryan-warsofsky-fine-ty-dellandrea-preview-lines-34/">San Jose Hockey Now's Sheng Peng</a>. "We're moving on. Emotions, emotional sport, and we're going to move on. Get ready for tonight."</p><p>However, Warsofsky confirmed the fine was related to the officiating.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I'm passionate, I wear my emotions on my sleeve. Sometimes, it gets the best of me, but at the end of the day, I gotta have our players back. And that's not gonna change," Warsofsky said. "Do I wish I used different words or whatnot? But at the end of the day, we're all in this together as a group, myself, the coaches, the trainers, the equipment staff, the players, and I'm gonna have our players' back."</p><p>Warsofsky added that he was also fined a couple of times when he coached in the AHL.</p><p>The Sharks enter Tuesday's slate with an 11-17-5 record and sit 27th in the NHL, even though many picked them to finish last.</p>

SUNRISE, FL - DECEMBER 7: Referee Brian Pochmara #16 explains a tripping penalty to head coach Ryan Warsofsky of the San Jose Sharksduring second period action against the Florida Panthers at the Amerant Bank Arena on December 7, 2024 in Sunrise, Florida.

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<p>The Carolina Hurricanes are eyeing a trio of goaltenders to fortify their depth between the pipes.</p><p>Ottawa's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2978" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2978">Anton Forsberg</a>, Utah's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10890" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10890">Karel Vejmelka</a>, and Calgary's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3929" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3929">Dan Vladar</a> are on Carolina's radar, reports <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6001203/2024/12/17/nhl-trade-rumblings-provorov-canucks/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun</a>. However, none of those teams are in sell mode yet and might not be at all depending on how their seasons go, LeBrun notes. All three goalies are pending unrestricted free agents.</p><p>Forsberg has posted an .889 save percentage in 11 games with the Senators this campaign as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3922" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3922">Linus Ullmark</a>'s backup. The 32-year-old journeyman previously spent time in Raleigh during in 2019-20.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Vejmelka has emerged as Utah's starter this season, registering a sparkling .915 save percentage in 17 appearances.</p><p>Vladar has struggled with an .885 save percentage in 16 games while sharing the Flames' crease with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9990" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9990">Dustin Wolf</a>.</p><p>The Canes also <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3157882" href="https://thescore.com/news/3157882">reportedly</a> spoke to the Anaheim Ducks about <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2074" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2074">John Gibson</a> after missing out on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4779" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4779">Mackenzie Blackwood</a>, who was dealt to the Colorado Avalanche on Dec. 9.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12697" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12697">Pyotr Kochetkov</a> has struggled with an .895 save percentage in 18 games as Carolina's No. 1 goalie this season. Veteran netminder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2583" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2583">Frederik Andersen</a> hasn't played since October and was given an eight-week timeline after undergoing knee surgery in late November.</p>

OTTAWA, CANADA - NOVEMBER 25: Anton Forsberg #31 of the Ottawa Senators skates against the Calgary Flames at Canadian Tire Centre on November 25, 2024 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

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Kaapo Kakko said he believes the New York Rangers are treating him as a scapegoat after being mad...

<p><a href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8593">Kaapo Kakko</a> said he believes the New York Rangers are treating him as a scapegoat after being made a healthy scratch for Sunday's 3-2 loss to the St. Louis Blues.</p><p>The 23-year-old expressed his frustration with the move Tuesday, saying his age played a part in head coach Peter Laviolette's decision.</p><p>"I was surprised, yeah," Kakko told reporters, including <a href="https://x.com/MollieeWalkerr/status/1869085033677697086">The New York Post's Mollie Walker</a>. "I know you got to do something as a coach when you're losing games, but I think it's just easy to pick a young guy and boot him out. That's how I feel, to be honest."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Rangers are 3-10-0 in their last 13 games and sit one point out of a playoff spot entering Tuesday's slate.</p><p>Kakko has recorded four goals and 10 assists in 29 games this season, putting him on pace for 39 points. However, he pointed to his strong defensive game as a reason to keep him in the lineup.</p><p>"Haven't been on the ice too much when (opponents) score a goal," <a href="https://x.com/MollieeWalkerr/status/1869082830350987313">said</a> Kakko, who ranks second on the team with a plus-10 rating. "I have not been the worst guy, but that was me out of the lineup."</p><p>Kakko added that he doesn't think it's his responsibility to seek an explanation from the coaching staff about what they want to see out of him moving forward.</p><p>"I'm not going to do that," he <a href="https://x.com/MollieeWalkerr/status/1869086106073084093">said</a>. "They're going to say if they have something to say, but I'm not going there."</p><p>Laviolette said he understands Kakko's frustration.</p><p>"I'll probably keep those messages between him and I," Laviolette <a href="https://x.com/MollieeWalkerr/status/1869088886489817336">said</a>. "I think it's OK to be frustrated, it's OK to be upset. Everybody wants to play, I get that 100%. I understand that."</p><p>Kakko has failed to meet expectations since being drafted second overall in 2019. His most productive season was in 2022-23, when he registered career-highs of 18 goals and 22 assists in 82 games while averaging 15:18 per contest.</p><p>The Rangers reportedly placed Kakko back on the trade block in November after fielding calls for him ahead of the 2024 deadline. Kakko signed a one-year, $2.4-million contract in the offseason. He'll be a restricted free agent at season's end and can become unrestricted in 2026.</p>

EDMONTON, CANADA - NOVEMBER 23: Kaapo Kakko #24 of the New York Rangers skates against the Edmonton Oilers during the third period at Rogers Place on November 23, 2024 in Edmonton, Canada.

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Kakko feels like Rangers' scapegoat after scratch: 'Easy to pick a young guy'

The Vancouver Canucks are on the lookout for a top-four defenseman and a winger, sources told The...

<p>The Vancouver Canucks are on the lookout for a top-four defenseman and a winger, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6001203/2024/12/17/nhl-trade-rumblings-provorov-canucks/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun</a>.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4577" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4577">Ivan Provorov</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3173" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3173">Rasmus Ristolainen</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4553" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4553">Marcus Pettersson</a> are among the top defensemen who could be available ahead of the 2025 trade deadline. The Canucks reportedly showed interest in Pettersson in November.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2542" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2542">Chris Kreider</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8593" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8593">Kaapo Kakko</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2086" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2086">Brandon Saad</a> headline the list of wingers already on the trade block.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Vancouver does have some trade bait of its own: It was reported in November that <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9827" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9827">Nils Hoglander</a> was generating interest from Pittsburgh, Washington, and Columbus. The Canucks are also reportedly <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3158465" href="https://thescore.com/news/3158465">looking to move on</a> from defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10907" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10907">Vincent Desharnais</a>, who the club signed as a free agent in the offseason.</p><p>The NHL implements a roster freeze over the holidays beginning 11:59 p.m. local time Thursday through 12:01 a.m. Dec. 28.</p>

MONTREAL, QUEBEC - JULY 08: Ron Francis of the Seattle Kraken and Jim Rutherford of the Vancouver Canucks attend the 2022 NHL Draft at the Bell Centre on July 08, 2022 in Montreal, Quebec.

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Report: Canucks seeking top-4 defenseman, winger

The Winnipeg Jets signed prospect Kevin He to an entry-level deal Tuesday, making him the first C...

<p>The Winnipeg Jets signed prospect <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/15038" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/15038">Kevin He</a> to an entry-level deal Tuesday, making him the first Chinese-born player ever to sign an NHL contract, the team announced. </p><p>He became the second Chinese-born player to be drafted to the NHL when the Jets selected him in the fourth round in 2024. Andong Song, taken in the sixth round of the 2015 draft by the New York Islanders, was the first but never signed a contract.</p><p>He, 18, is currently serving as captain of the OHL's Niagara IceDogs. The speedy winger ranks fourth in the league with 23 goals in 29 games this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He was born in Beijing, where his father first started taking him skating at small rinks in malls when he was four years old. He first played organized hockey at age six when his family moved to Montreal. He then moved to Toronto at age 12 where he started playing Triple-A hockey in North York.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JUNE 29: Kevin He poses for a portrait after being drafted by the Winnipeg Jets with the 109th overall pick in the 2024 Upper Deck NHL Draft at Sphere on June 29, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Jets' Kevin He becomes 1st Chinese-born player to sign NHL contract

Anthony Stolarz's injury is worse than initially feared.  The Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender will...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9766" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9766">Anthony Stolarz</a>'s injury is worse than initially feared.</p><p>The Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender will undergo surgery to remove a loose body in his knee and miss four-to-six weeks, general manager Brad Trelviing announced Tuesday, per <a href="https://x.com/TSN_Sports/status/1869062934212845571">TSN</a>. Treliving added that while an MRI revealed no structural damage, the loose body looks like a "little pebble."</p><p>Stolarz suffered the injury Thursday against the Anaheim Ducks. He was deemed day-to-day on Friday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 30-year-old journeyman has been exceptional for the Maple Leafs this season, leading all NHL goaltenders with a .927 save percentage in 17 appearances. He also ranks third in goals saved above expected (14.59) behind <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9753" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9753">Lukas Dostal</a> (20.24) and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3997" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3997">Connor Hellebuyck</a> (25.05), per <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/">Evolving-Hockey</a>.</p><p>The Maple Leafs signed Stolarz as a free agent to a two-year, $5-million deal in the offseason.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8266" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8266">Joseph Woll</a> is expected to handle the bulk of the starts with Stolarz sidelined. The 26-year-old has been stellar since returning from an early-season injury, posting a .918 save percentage in 12 appearances. He ranks 17th in the league with 5.44 GSAx.</p><p>Toronto recalled netminder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13814" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13814">Dennis Hildeby</a> from the AHL, and he stopped 24 of 27 shots in a win over the Buffalo Sabres on Sunday. The Maple Leafs could also turn to two-time Stanley Cup champion <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3110" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3110">Matt Murray</a> if they're seeking more experience behind Woll. The 30-year-old veteran has posted a .919 save percentage in seven games this season with the AHL's Toronto Marlies. He last appeared in the NHL in April 2023.</p>

SUNRISE, FL - NOVEMBER 27: Goaltender Anthony Stolarz #41 of the Toronto Maple Leafs defends the net against the Florida Panthers at the Amerant Bank Arena on November 27, 2024 in Sunrise, Florida.

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Leafs' Stolarz out 4-6 weeks to remove loose body in knee

The Calgary Flames rewarded defenseman Brayden Pachal with a two-year contract extension carrying...

<p>The Calgary Flames rewarded defenseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10001" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10001">Brayden Pachal</a> with a two-year contract extension carrying an average annual value of $1.1875 million, the team announced Tuesday.</p><p>He was set to become a restricted free agent at season's end. He'll be unrestricted when the contract expires in 2027.</p><p>Pachal, 25, has recorded a goal and an assist in 31 games with the Flames this season. The stay-at-home, 6-foot-2 blue-liner has averaged 14:31 per contest.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Brayden Pachal, signed to a 2x$1.2M extension by CGY, is a physical depth defensive defenceman. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Flames?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Flames</a> <a href="https://t.co/PYL2AleQ6e">pic.twitter.com/PYL2AleQ6e</a></p>— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/JFreshHockey/status/1869063491786867129?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Flames claimed the right-shot defenseman off waivers from the Vegas Golden Knights in 2023-24.</p>

VANCOUVER, CANADA - NOVEMBER 12: Brayden Pachal #94 of the Calgary Flames skates during the first period of their NHL game against the Vancouver Canucks at Rogers Arena on November 12, 2024 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

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Flames sign Pachal to 2-year extension

The Toronto Maple Leafs assigned rookie center Fraser Minten to the AHL's Toronto Marlies on Tues...

<p>The Toronto Maple Leafs assigned rookie center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12711" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12711">Fraser Minten</a> to the AHL's Toronto Marlies on Tuesday, the team announced. </p><p>The 20-year-old has produced two goals and two assists in 11 games with the Maple Leafs this season. He tallied those same totals in five AHL games before his recall.</p><p>Minten was a healthy scratch for Sunday's 5-3 win over the Buffalo Sabres. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3007" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3007">Max Domi</a> shifted to the third-line center role Minten had been occupying and put together his strongest game of the campaign with a goal and an assist in 15:25.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/6397" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/6397">David Kampf</a>, who's been out for more than a month with a lower-body injury, appears close to returning. A roster spot is needed to activate the veteran center off long-term injured reserve, and Minten can be assigned to the AHL without having to clear waivers.</p><p>The Maple Leafs drafted Minten 38th overall in 2022.</p>

PITTSBURGH, PA - DECEMBER 07: Toronto Maple Leafs center Fraser Minten (39) skates with the puck during the first period in the NHL game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Toronto Maple Leafs on December 7, 2024, at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, PA.

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Maple Leafs send Minten down to AHL

Monday night's clash in Edmonton marks the Oilers and Panthers' first meeting since Florida's vic...

<p>Monday night's clash in Edmonton marks the Oilers and Panthers' first meeting since Florida's victory in Game 7 of the 2024 Stanley Cup Final.</p><p>Based on his own experience of losing against the Vegas Golden Knights in the 2023 Cup Final, Panthers forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5591" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5591">Matthew Tkachuk</a> is expecting the Oilers to bring their best.</p><p>"I was pretty angry playing against Vegas the first time last year," Tkachuk <a href="https://x.com/JamesonCoop/status/1868728323012280463">said</a>, per Jameson Olive of the team's website. "There was nothing you could do about the year before, but they took away your dream, basically."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Tkachuk added: "I expect tonight will be a very, very intense game."</p><p>The Oilers have been playing some of their best hockey of late, winning five games in a row and eight of their last nine.</p><p>Oilers forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3202" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3202">Connor Brown</a> tried to downplay the significance of the meeting, but he acknowledged the intensity will be ramped up.</p><p>"It's a regular-season game in the middle of December, so it's not as though it's some type of rematch for the Stanley Cup or anything," Brown said, per <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/edmonton-oilers-florida-panthers-set-for-intense-stanley-cup-final-rematch">NHL.com's Derek Van Diest</a>. "But with that being said, it's going to be on everybody's minds on both teams. We're all going to be aware of that elephant in the room and I think the intensity and the energy will be up for sure."</p><p>Oilers captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4560" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4560">Connor McDavid</a> noted that, even though the two teams are in separate conferences and have undergone change, a rivalry has brewed after seven straight clashes last spring.</p><p>"We played them however many months ago, seven times in a row you're going to form a rivalry," McDavid said. "It wasn't that long ago. That being said, it's a new year, a lot of turnover on both teams and we'll see, hopefully we'll get a big win tonight."</p>

SUNRISE, FLORIDA - JUNE 24: Connor McDavid #97 of the Edmonton Oilers congratulates Matthew Tkachuk #19 of the Florida Panthers after their 2-1 win in Game Seven of the Stanley Cup Final at the Amerant Bank Arena on June 24, 2024 in Sunrise, Florida.

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Oilers, Panthers expecting 'intense' Cup Final rematch

It appears Buffalo Sabres owner Terry Pegula isn't smashing the panic button despite his team's 1...

<p>It appears Buffalo Sabres owner Terry Pegula isn't smashing the panic button despite his team's 10-game losing streak.</p><p>Pegula met with players Monday in Montreal and professed his faith in general manager Kevyn Adams and head coach Lindy Ruff and told them not to expect a big trade, sources told <a href="https://x.com/frank_seravalli/status/1868737532240052250">Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli</a>.</p><p>The Sabres are 0-7-3 in their last 10 games and sit 29th in the NHL. Buffalo owns the NHL's longest-ever postseason drought at 13 years and running.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Adams has been the GM since June 2020. The Sabres hired Ruff this past offseason for his second stint as the team's bench boss. It was the franchise's seventh coaching change during the playoff drought.</p><p>"I'm almost lost for words, obviously," Ruff <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3161160" href="https://thescore.com/news/3161160">said</a> following Sunday's 5-3 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs. "It's on me to solve this. This is the toughest solve I've been around. It is on me to get these guys in the right place and win a hockey game. And nobody else, just me."</p><p>With a young core featuring <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7216" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7216">Rasmus Dahlin</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10545" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10545">Owen Power</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5611" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5611">Tage Thompson</a>, Buffalo was expected to compete for the playoffs this season. The Sabres finished one point out of a postseason spot in 2022-23 but have regressed since.</p>

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA - JUNE 21: Terry Pegula of the Buffalo Sabres attends the first round of the 2019 NHL Draft at Rogers Arena on June 21, 2019 in Vancouver, Canada.

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Report: Sabres owner told players not to expect wholesale changes

It's no coincidence the Carolina Hurricanes' worst stretch of the season has corresponded with Se...

<p>It's no coincidence the Carolina Hurricanes' worst stretch of the season has corresponded with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5681" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5681">Sebastian Aho</a>'s goal-scoring funk.</p><p>The Canes fell 3-0 at home to the Ottawa Senators on Friday, dropping to 4-6-1 in their past 11 games. Aho has found twine just twice during that stretch.</p><p>"I've gotta be better, no question about it," Aho said postgame. "But at the same time, I think we've got to find some chemistry between the linemates as well, and especially the nights that you're not feeling it."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The offensive well has dried up a bit of late for the Hurricanes. They haven't had a five-on-five goal from a forward in three consecutive contests. </p><p>Aho doubled down on the need for his line - featuring <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/7706" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/7706">Andrei Svechnikov</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5780" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5780">Jack Roslovic</a> - to improve.</p><p>"It's not always easy, it's not always going your way, but that's the time when you need to grind one out," Aho continued. "So I've got to be better, and obviously our line's got to be better."</p><p>Aho has been remarkably consistent throughout his career, scoring 36 goals in each of the past two seasons and 37 the year before that. However, with seven goals in 29 games this season, he's on pace for what would be a career-low 20.</p><p>The playmaking has still been there, though. He's picked up 11 assists in his past 11 games and ranks second on the team with 30 points this season.</p>

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA - DECEMBER 13: Sebastian Aho #20 of the Carolina Hurricanes looks on prior to the game against the Ottawa Senators at Lenovo Center on December 13, 2024 in Raleigh, North Carolina.

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Aho owns scoring slump: 'I've got to be better'

The Vegas Golden Knights inked winger Keegan Kolesar to a three-year extension carrying an averag...

<p>The Vegas Golden Knights inked winger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4662" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4662">Keegan Kolesar</a> to a three-year extension carrying an average annual value of $2.5 million, the team announced Friday.</p><p>Kolesar was set to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season.</p><p>The 27-year-old has recorded seven goals - one shy of matching his career high - and four assists in 29 games with the Golden Knights this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Kolesar has established himself as a pivotal member of Vegas' bottom-six forward group. A 2023 Stanley Cup winner with the Golden Knights, Kolesar's 999 hits rank sixth in the league since he became a full-time NHLer in 2020-21.</p><p>The Columbus Blue Jackets drafted Kolesar 69th overall in 2015. The Golden Knights acquired him in 2017 in exchange for a second-round pick.</p>

ANAHEIM, CA - DECEMBER 4: Keegan Kolesar #55 of the Vegas Golden Knights skates during the game against the Anaheim Ducks on December 4, 2024 at Honda Center in Anaheim, California.

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Golden Knights sign Kolesar to 3-year extension

Hockey Canada announced Friday the 25 players it will bring to Ottawa for the 2025 World Junior C...

<p>Hockey Canada <a href="https://www.hockeycanada.ca/en-ca/team-canada/men/junior/2024-25/world-championship/stats/team-rosters?teamid=175">announced</a> Friday the 25 players it will bring to Ottawa for the 2025 World Junior Championship.</p><p>Among them is 16-year-old phenom <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wjhc/players/15439" href="https://thescore.com/wjhc/players/15439">Gavin McKenna</a>, who leads all WHL skaters with 60 points in 30 games this season. He isn't eligible for the NHL draft until 2026, when he's projected to go No. 1. McKenna turns 17 on Friday, six days before the tournament begins. </p><p>McKenna is one of three draft-eligible skaters named to the team along with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wjhc/players/15438" href="https://thescore.com/wjhc/players/15438">Porter Martone</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wjhc/players/15426" href="https://thescore.com/wjhc/players/15426">Matthew Schaefer</a>, who are projected to be selected in the top five in 2025. Schaefer is considered by many to be the best defenseman in the draft and a candidate to go first overall.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Here's Canada's full roster, along with players who were cut from camp.</p><h3>Forwards</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759837/cropped_GettyImages-1890715675.jpg?ts=1733783606" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759837/w220xh124_GettyImages-1890715675.jpg?ts=1733783606 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759837/w320xh180_GettyImages-1890715675.jpg?ts=1733783606 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759837/w640xh360_GettyImages-1890715675.jpg?ts=1733783606 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759837/w768xh432_GettyImages-1890715675.jpg?ts=1733783606 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759837/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1890715675.jpg?ts=1733783606 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">ADAM IHSE / AFP / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Age</th>
<th>Current Team</th>
<th>NHL Rights</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cole Beaudoin</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>Barrie (OHL)</td>
<td>Utah</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mathieu Cataford</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>Rimouski (QMJHL)</td>
<td>Golden Knights</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Berkly Catton</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>Spokane (WHL)</td>
<td>Kraken</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Easton Cowan</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>London (OHL)</td>
<td>Maple Leafs</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ethan Gauthier</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>Drummondville (QMJHL)</td>
<td>Lightning</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tanner Howe</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>Calgary (WHL)</td>
<td>Penguins</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jett Luchanko</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>Guelph (OHL)</td>
<td>Flyers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Porter Martone</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>Brampton (OHL)</td>
<td>2025 eligible</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gavin McKenna</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>Medicine Hat (WHL)</td>
<td>2026 eligible</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bradly Nadeau</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>Chicago (AHL)</td>
<td>Hurricanes</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Luca Pinelli</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>Ottawa (OHL)</td>
<td>Blue Jackets</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Carson Rehkopf</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>Brampton (OHL)</td>
<td>Kraken</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Calum Ritchie</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>Oshawa (OHL)</td>
<td>Avalanche</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brayden Yager</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>Moose Jaw (WHL)</td>
<td>Jets</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Cuts: </strong>Denver Barkey, Andrew Cristall, Riley Heidt, Beckett Sennecke, Matthew Wood</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/15128" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/15128">Sennecke</a>'s cut from the roster isn't entirely surprising as the reigning No. 3 pick was a late addition to the camp roster. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wjhc/players/15445" href="https://thescore.com/wjhc/players/15445">Wood</a>'s inclusion, however, comes as a shock considering he was on the team a year ago and registered four points in five games.</p><p>Returnees <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13820" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13820">Cowan</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wjhc/players/15442" href="https://thescore.com/wjhc/players/15442">Rehkopf</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13824" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13824">Yager</a> will be counted on to provide offense and leadership.</p><h3>Defense</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760522/cropped_GettyImages-2186694065.jpg?ts=1734131802" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760522/w220xh124_GettyImages-2186694065.jpg?ts=1734131802 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760522/w320xh180_GettyImages-2186694065.jpg?ts=1734131802 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760522/w640xh360_GettyImages-2186694065.jpg?ts=1734131802 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760522/w768xh432_GettyImages-2186694065.jpg?ts=1734131802 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760522/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2186694065.jpg?ts=1734131802 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Michael Miller/ISI Photos / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Age</th>
<th>Current Team</th>
<th>NHL Rights</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Beau Akey</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>Barrie (OHL)</td>
<td>Oilers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Oliver Bonk</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>London (OHL)</td>
<td>Flyers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sam Dickinson</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>London (OHL)</td>
<td>Sharks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andrew Gibson</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)</td>
<td>Predators</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tanner Molendyk</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>Saskatoon (WHL)</td>
<td>Predators</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sawyer Mynio</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>Seattle (WHL)</td>
<td>Canucks</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Caden Price</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>Kelowna (WHL)</td>
<td>Kraken</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Matthew Schaefer</td>
<td>17</td>
<td>Erie (OHL)</td>
<td>2025 eligible</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Cuts:</strong> Cameron Allen, Harrison Brunicke, Zayne Parekh</p><p>Parekh, the 2024 No. 9 pick, marks another recent high draft pick left off the team. Like Sennecke, he was a late addition to the camp roster.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13823" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13823">Bonk</a> is the lone returnee on the back end. He and 2024 No. 11 pick<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/15143" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/15143"> Dickinson</a> could form one of Canada' go-to pairs given their familiarity as OHL teammates.</p><h3>Goalies</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760523/cropped_GettyImages-2159725447.jpg?ts=1734131855" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760523/w220xh124_GettyImages-2159725447.jpg?ts=1734131855 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760523/w320xh180_GettyImages-2159725447.jpg?ts=1734131855 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760523/w640xh360_GettyImages-2159725447.jpg?ts=1734131855 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760523/w768xh432_GettyImages-2159725447.jpg?ts=1734131855 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760523/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2159725447.jpg?ts=1734131855 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jonathan Kozub / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Player</th>
<th>Age</th>
<th>Current Team</th>
<th>NHL Rights</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Carson Bjarnason</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>Brandon (WHL)</td>
<td>Flyers</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Carter George</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>Owen Sound (OHL)</td>
<td>Kings</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Jack Ivankovic</td>
<td>17</td>
<td>Brampton (WHL)</td>
<td>2025 eligible</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><strong>Cut:</strong> Scott Ratzlaff</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13859" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13859">Ratzlaff</a> was on the 2024 team, though he never appeared in a game. </p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13893" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13893">Bjarnason</a> is the best bet to start given his experience. He was a second-round pick by Philadelphia in 2023.</p><p>The tournament will run Dec. 26 through Jan. 5. Czechia knocked Canada out in the quarterfinals of the 2024 tournament.</p>

EDMONTON, CANADA AUGUST 05: Gavin McKenna #9 of Team Canada celebrates a goal during the preliminary round game against Team Switzerland on Day One of the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup at Rogers Place on August 05, 2024, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

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McKenna headlines Canada's 25-player WJHC roster

Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Anthony Stolarz exited Thursday's 3-2 win against the Anaheim Duck...

<p>Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9766" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9766">Anthony Stolarz</a> exited Thursday's 3-2 win against the Anaheim Ducks after the first period with a lower-body injury.</p><p>He played the entire opening frame, stopping seven of eight shots, before being replaced by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8266" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8266">Joseph Woll</a> - who saved 19 of 20 attempts - to begin the second period. It's unclear how Stolarz got hurt.</p><p>Maple Leafs head coach Craig Berube offered no postgame update on Stolarz's status. He said the team will know more Friday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Stolarz has been sensational during his first season in Toronto, as he entered Thursday leading all NHL netminders with a .928 save percentage through 16 games. He also ranks third with 15.01 goals saved above expected, per <a href="https://evolving-hockey.com/">Evolving-Hockey</a>.</p><p>The Maple Leafs signed Stolarz to a two-year contract with a $2.5-million cap hit this summer. The 30-year-old spent last season with the Florida Panthers, backing up <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1631" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1631">Sergei Bobrovsky</a>.</p><p>Woll has been stellar, too, since returning from an early-season injury. He entered the game with a .919 save percentage in 10 appearances.</p><p>Fortunately for the Maple Leafs, the organization is rich in goaltending depth if Stolarz is forced to miss time. Their three AHL goalies all present compelling cases to be recalled. Two-time Stanley Cup champion <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3110" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3110">Matt Murray</a> (.912 save percentage in six AHL games) is the most experienced of the bunch, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/13814" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/13814">Dennis Hildeby</a> (.897 in six games) spent time with the big club while Woll was hurt, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9228" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9228">Artur Akhtyamov</a> (.929 in nine games) has been the Marlies' best goalie this season.</p>

TORONTO, ON - NOVEMBER 5: Anthony Stolarz #41 of the Toronto Maple Leafs tends the goal against the Boston Bruins during the third period at the Scotiabank Arena on November 5, 2024 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

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Maple Leafs' Stolarz suffers lower-body injury vs. Ducks

The Carolina Hurricanes have talked with the Anaheim Ducks about a potential trade for goaltender...

<p>The Carolina Hurricanes have talked with the Anaheim Ducks about a potential trade for goaltender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2074" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2074">John Gibson</a>, reports <a href="https://www.tsn.ca/nhl/video/insider-trading-ovi-s-return-may-not-come-before-christmas~3045977">TSN's Pierre LeBrun</a>.</p><p>The Canes were also reportedly interested in <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/4779" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/4779">Mackenzie Blackwood</a> before he was <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3155262" href="https://thescore.com/news/3155262">dealt</a> from the San Jose Sharks to the Colorado Avalanche.</p><p>Gibson's name has been a mainstay on the rumor mill for years. He was injured to begin the year but has posted a .903 save percentage in nine appearances since returning.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 31-year-old was once viewed as a premier goaltender. During a four-year stretch from 2015-19 he owned a .922 save percentage and finished top 10 in Vezina voting twice. Since then, his save percentage is just .900.</p><p>Gibson is signed through 2026-27 with a $6.4-million cap hit. 24-year-old <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9753" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9753">Lukas Dostal</a>, who's recorded a .921 save percentage in 16 games for the Ducks this season, appears to be ready to become Anaheim's full-time No. 1 netminder.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/12697" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/12697">Pyotr Kochetkov</a>, who's managed an .894 save percentage this year, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/3025" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/3025">Spencer Martin</a>, who's been even worse with an .846 mark, have started 24 of Carolina's 28 games this season. Veteran <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2583" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2583">Frederik Andersen</a> - Gibson's former teammate in Orange County - hasn't played since October and was given an eight-week timeline after undergoing knee surgery in late November.</p>

OTTAWA, ON - DECEMBER 11: Anaheim Ducks Goalie John Gibson (36) makes a save during first period National Hockey League action between the Anaheim Ducks and Ottawa Senators on December 11, 2024, at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, ON, Canada.

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Report: Hurricanes speak with Ducks about Gibson

Anaheim Ducks forward Trevor Zegras underwent surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee...

<p>Anaheim Ducks forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9757" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9757">Trevor Zegras</a> underwent surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee Thursday and will miss approximately six weeks, the team announced.</p><p>He suffered the injury on an awkward fall last week against the Vegas Golden Knights.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Trevor Zegras is assisted to the locker room after an awkward fall. <a href="https://t.co/BXrgrECtoE">pic.twitter.com/BXrgrECtoE</a></p>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1864522781833966045?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Zegras has recorded four goals and six assists in 24 games this season.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 2022 Calder Trophy runner-up has failed to replicate the success he found early in his career when he reeled off back-to-back 60-point campaigns. </p><p>The Ducks drafted Zegras ninth overall in 2019.</p>

ANAHEIM, CA - DECEMBER 4: Trevor Zegras #11 of the Anaheim Ducks gets helped off the ice after an injury during the game against the Vegas Golden Knights on December 4, 2024 at Honda Center in Anaheim, California.

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Ducks' Zegras out approximately 6 weeks with torn meniscus

Auston Matthews scored an electric overtime winner to give the Toronto Maple Leafs an improbable ...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/5586" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/5586">Auston Matthews</a> scored an electric overtime winner to give the Toronto Maple Leafs an improbable 2-1 victory over the New Jersey Devils on Tuesday night.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">THE LEAFS WIN IT IN OT! WHAT A SEQUENCE 😳<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NHL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NHL</a> <a href="https://t.co/M2VzbhmNHr">pic.twitter.com/M2VzbhmNHr</a></p>— TSN (@TSN_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/1866674669270560778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9766" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9766">Anthony Stolarz</a> - a native of New Jersey - stole the game, frankly, as Toronto was outshot 39-16. He saved 3.57 goals above expected, per <a href="https://moneypuck.com/">Money Puck</a>.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760067/cropped_Screenshot_2024-12-10_at_9.58.26_PM.jpg?ts=1733885987" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760067/w220xh124_Screenshot_2024-12-10_at_9.58.26_PM.jpg?ts=1733885987 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760067/w320xh180_Screenshot_2024-12-10_at_9.58.26_PM.jpg?ts=1733885987 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760067/w640xh360_Screenshot_2024-12-10_at_9.58.26_PM.jpg?ts=1733885987 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760067/w768xh432_Screenshot_2024-12-10_at_9.58.26_PM.jpg?ts=1733885987 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760067/w1080xh607_Screenshot_2024-12-10_at_9.58.26_PM.jpg?ts=1733885987 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Moneypuck.com</span></figcaption></figure><p>"Best goaltending in the league on the other side of the ice," Devils head coach Sheldon Keefe said postgame, per <a href="https://x.com/lukefoxjukebox/status/1866681662915989979">Sportsnet's Luke Fox</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Stolarz now owns a .928 save percentage on the season. He entered the evening third in the NHL with a .924 mark.</p><p>The Devils didn't solve Stolarz until the second period when <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/2121" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/2121">Ondrej Palat</a> ripped one under his blocker. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/11027" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/11027">Pontus Holmberg</a> responded for the Maple Leafs with a shorthanded tally through <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/1677" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/1677">Jacob Markstrom</a>'s five-hole to cap a wild sequence.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Leafs tie it up on this wild sequence!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NHL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NHL</a> <a href="https://t.co/j3rnWIRMrp">pic.twitter.com/j3rnWIRMrp</a></p>— TSN (@TSN_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/1866668495187915026?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The game also featured no shortage of physicality. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/666" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/666">Max Pacioretty</a> notably laid out <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/8594" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/8594">Jack Hughes</a> late in the second period.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Max Pacioretty lays out Jack Hughes!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NHL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NHL</a> <a href="https://t.co/2fzlf9uEgY">pic.twitter.com/2fzlf9uEgY</a></p>— TSN (@TSN_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/1866663035164561751?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/10575" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/10575">Matthew Knies</a> also clobbered <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nhl/players/9987" href="https://thescore.com/nhl/players/9987">Johnathan Kovacevic</a> from behind with a questionable hit that resulted in a two-minute minor.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Matthew Knies was given a two minute minor for this hit on Jonathan Kovacevic<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NHL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NHL</a> <a href="https://t.co/AuVbngXM0S">pic.twitter.com/AuVbngXM0S</a></p>— TSN (@TSN_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/1866668155285721294?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The Maple Leafs snapped their two-game losing streak with the victory.</p>

NEWARK, NJ - DECEMBER 10: Toronto Maple Leafs center Auston Matthews (34) takes a shot during a NHL game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center on December 10, 2024 in Newark, New Jersey.

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Maple Leafs win in OT despite getting outshot 39-16 by Devils

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Kayla Douglas

News Editor

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