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Today is the 26th of December, which means, other than struggling through a rough day at work or enjoying a vacation day, the World Junior Championship starts today. Here is a brief primer on who in the Ducks system will be playing in the tournament and when those games are.
Team Canada
Sam Steel - The highly touted 1st round pick in 2016 looks to be either the 1st or 2nd line center for Team Canada based on pre-tournament games. This is Steel’s final year of eligibility to play in the tournament.
Maxime Comtois - The 2nd round pick of the team in 2017 was a surprise pick to make Team Canada, but has gained a spot on the 4th line and PK based on pre-tournament play. Comtois is eligible to play in next years tournament.
Note: Josh Mahura was sent back to Regina today due to Dante Fabbro being medically cleared to play in the tournament.
Team USA
Max Jones - The other 1st round pick of the team in 2016 looks to be on the 4th line for a very stacked team USA. This is Jones’ final year of eligibility to play in this tournament.
Team Sweden
Olle Eriksson Ek - The 2017 5th round pick has made the Sweden roster out of camp, but the starting job seems to have been won by Filip Gustavsson. World Juniors can be crazy with teams changing goalies if things aren’t working, but don’t expect Olle to get much playing time. He is eligible to play in next year’s tournament.
Group Play Games For Canada, US, and Sweden
All times PST
Tuesday, Dec. 26
Belarus vs. Sweden, 11 a.m.*
Canada vs. Finland, 1 p.m.
United States vs. Denmark, 5 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 27
Slovakia vs. Canada, 4 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 28
Sweden vs. Czech Republic, 1 p.m.
United States vs. Slovakia, 5 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 29
Canada vs. United States, 12 p.m. (outdoor game at New Era Field)
Saturday, Dec. 30
Sweden vs. Switzerland, 11 a.m.*
Denmark vs. Canada, 5 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 31
United States vs. Finland, 1 p.m.
Russia vs. Sweden, 5 p.m.
How to Watch in the US
Per the NHL’s site all games listed above, except for those with a *, will be broadcast live on NHL Network.