Overview

• Tim Stützle, cleared by the Ottawa Senators, will join the German team in Herning but is unavailable for the first two group-stage games against Hungary and Kazakhstan.
• Germany's opening matches are considered must-wins to maintain their quarterfinal aspirations, with pressure mounting on the reconfigured roster.
• Captain Moritz Seider, one of the NHL's top defensive talents, will lead the team in his first World Championship as captain.
• Key players JJ Peterka, Nico Sturm, Moritz Müller, and Kai Wissmann are unavailable due to contract negotiations, ongoing playoffs, or injuries, testing Germany's depth and adaptability.
• Germany opens its campaign against Hungary on Saturday, aiming to build momentum before facing tougher opponents in the group stage.