2025 World Junior Hockey Championship Kicks Off in Ottawa

The tournament showcases top under-20 talent as the U.S. aims for back-to-back titles and Canada fields a star-studded roster.

The 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship began on December 26 in Ottawa, featuring elite under-20 hockey players from around the globe.
Team USA is seeking consecutive gold medals for the first time, with key players like Gabe Perreault and Logan Hensler expected to make an impact.
Canada's roster includes standout prospects such as Gavin McKenna, Berkly Catton, and Matthew Schaefer, alongside Flyers prospects Jett Luchanko and Oliver Bonk.
Top draft-eligible players, including James Hagens (USA), Porter Martone (Canada), and Victor Eklund (Sweden), are vying to boost their stock ahead of the 2025 NHL Draft.
Smaller hockey nations like Slovakia and Kazakhstan aim to challenge traditional powerhouses, reflecting the growing parity in international junior hockey.