Overview
- The 10‑nation tournament runs Dec. 26–Jan. 5 across Grand Casino Arena in Saint Paul and 3M Arena in Minneapolis, with NHL Network in the U.S., TSN/CTV in Canada and Fubo streaming coverage, plus select games on ESPN+.
- Opening day featured Sweden–Slovakia, Denmark–Finland, Germany–USA and Canada–Czechia, with group play through Dec. 31 before single‑elimination rounds Jan. 2–5.
- The United States seeks a third straight title on home ice, led by Boston University defenseman Cole Hutson, last year’s tournament scoring leader.
- Canada’s roster centers on 2026 draft headliner Gavin McKenna alongside NHL prospects Michael Misa, Zayne Parekh and Cole Reschny, with Flyers draftee Porter Martone serving as captain.
- Scouting spotlights include Sweden’s Ivar Stenberg among top 2026 eligibles, while pre‑tournament ballots often tab Canada’s Carter George as top goalie and identify Hutson and Parekh as leading defensemen.