Ottawa hosts the world juniors for the first time since 2009. The iconic tournament 16 years ago included Jordan Eberle's tying goal against Russia in the semifinal.

Seven Canadian forwards were drafted in the first round, including Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Easton Cowan. Look for Calum Ritchie (Avalanche) and Berkly Catton (Kraken) to play big roles, too.

Nashville Predators prospect Tanner Molendyk was named to Canada's roster last year but didn't play due to injury. He's joined by Sam Dickinson (Sharks) and Oliver Bonk (Flyers) as first-round picks on the back end.

Porter Martone, Gavin McKenna, and Matthew Schaefer project to play notable roles for Canada. Martone and Schaefer are challengers to go first overall next summer. McKenna is the front-runner for the 2026 draft.

Carson Bjarnason (Flyers) and Carter George (Kings) will likely battle for the starting gig, but don't count out draft-eligible Jack Ivankovic. The 17-year-old won gold for Canada at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup in August.

Canada starts the tournament for the second straight year with a matchup against Finland on Dec. 26. The Canadians have five consecutive wins over the Finns and haven't lost to them since 2019.

Canada faces the United States on Dec. 31 in the most anticipated game of the preliminary round. The rivals last played on New Year's Eve in 2016.