Merkley, Howden among Canada's World Junior cuts

Team Canada has made several cuts on the eve of the final day of the World Junior Championship selection camp.

Defenseman Victor Mete (London - OHL) as well as forwards Nick Merkley (Kelowna - WHL), Brett Howden (Moose Jaw - WHL), and Austin Wagner (Regina - WHL) have been sent back to their junior clubs, according to Mark Masters of TSN.

For Merkley, an Arizona Coyotes draft pick, it marks the second year in a row he's been cut from the selection camp roster. Howden was selected 27th overall by the Tampa Bay Lightning in June.

The blue line cut eliminates one junior league from having any representatives:

The roster stands at 27 players, with five cuts yet to be made.

Selection camp is set to wrap up Tuesday.